Whether she’s hitting high notes on stage or developing her next r.e.m. beauty drop, Ariana Grande’s aesthetic is unmistakable. Blending old-Hollywood glamour with modern hydration, her routine is a masterclass in achieving that “blurred-to-perfection” look.
Inspired by legends like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe, Ariana has transitioned from her theater roots in Florida to becoming a global beauty icon.
Here is the step-by-step breakdown of the products and techniques she uses to maintain her glow and signature retro flick.
Ariana Grande’s Skin Care Routine & Guide to a ‘60s Cat Eye
Phase 1: The Base – Hydration & Protection
For Ariana, makeup is only as good as the skin underneath. Growing up in the Florida sun left her with some hyperpigmentation, making SPF and soothing serums non-negotiable.
The Transformation Serum: She starts with Sarah Ford Biocell Oxygen Serum. Having used this for years, she credits it with transforming her skin texture, keeping it soft, smooth, and—most importantly—keeping inflammation at bay.
The “Cocktail” Moisturizer: She mixes the ultra-rich La Mer Moisturizer with EltaMD SPF. This ensures her skin stays hydrated under heavy stage lights while protecting against further sun damage and discoloration.
Prepping the Eyes: To create a canvas for her signature liner, she applies Shiseido Eye Patches for a quick boost, followed by her favorite r.e.m. beauty Undereye Cooling Balm. It blurs fine lines and acts as a cooling primer for concealer.
Phase 2: The Iconic ’60s Retro Makeup
Ariana’s love for makeup started in family theater and was further fueled by her stint as a guest judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race, where she saw firsthand the transformative power of a bold eye.
How to Achieve the “Ari” Cat Eye
The Shape: Unlike a standard wing, the ’60s cat eye is slightly more horizontal and “lifted.”
The Tool: Use a fine-point liquid liner. Start from the outer corner and draw toward the tail of the eyebrow, then connect it back to the lash line.
The Inspiration: Think Audrey Hepburn’s “doe-eye.” Ariana focuses on making the eyes look wide and bright, often using a white or nude pencil on the waterline to enhance the retro feel.
“I’ve always loved makeup… it’s about storytelling and finding what makes you feel like the most ‘you’ version of yourself.”
r.e.m. Beauty by Ariana Grande
r.e.m. beauty by ariana grande invites you to embrace the beauty of everyday artistry through a collection that celebrates self-expression without boundaries. Grounded in the belief that makeup should be a limitless tool for creativity, the brand offers high-performance formulas that are 100% vegan and cruelty-free.
Designed to be inclusive and made for all, r.e.m. beauty empowers every individual to transform their daily routine into a personal masterpiece, blending futuristic innovation with a timeless, vintage-inspired soul.
Whether you’re looking to replicate her “Positions” era vintage vibe or just want skin that looks like a filter, the secret lies in the prep. Protect your skin, cool your eyes, and never be afraid of a bold wing.
