Bold statement: style is a conversation with your future self, and Kaia Gerber’s approach to makeup proves you can chase trends without losing your own identity. Here’s a fresh take on her thoughts, preserving every key detail while presenting them with clearer explanations and a touch more context.
Kaia Gerber isn’t new to standout eyebrows—she grew up watching a ‘90s supermodel mother, Cindy Crawford, famous for her full brows. Yet the 24-year-old model and actress is interested in trying skinny brows. “I would love to experiment with thin brows,” she shares, before I caveat with a lighthearted caution about early-2000s trends. “I thinned mine for a project once and kept them that way, but I naturally have thick brows.” While she isn’t planning to wax them away entirely, she plans to simulate the look with makeup, using her go-to Radiant Creamy Concealer from NARS, now that she’s the brand’s face.
If I could choose only one makeup brand for life, my pick would still be NARS, she says about stepping into this new role. “It’s amazing to work with products you genuinely love, and it’s a surreal moment to be on set with everything laid out in front of you.”
We sat down with Gerber to cover all things beauty—from her desert-island essentials to why she delights in getting ready and embracing her femininity after years in front of the camera.
Why now, and what makes this moment the right time to be NARS’ spokesperson, especially given your long history with François Nars?
I was thrilled when NARS invited me to collaborate. I’ve known François for years; he cast me in Persona when I was around 13 or 14, so I’ve built a deep history with him and the brand. Any time he reached out would have felt timely, but right now everything aligns in a way that feels almost fated.
What was your first experience with the brand—the product that served as your entry point for many people?
For a lot of people, including myself, NARS was a gateway brand. My first makeup purchase was the Radiant Creamy Concealer, and it’s still in regular rotation. I’m proud of the 13-year-old me for appreciating something that continues to hold up. NARS products are accessible and versatile across many skin tones and seasons. I’ve spent more than a decade refining my own palette with their offerings.
How has your makeup taste evolved over the years?
I’ve never leaned into bold, colorful looks. I’ve always preferred natural looks with a hint of smokiness. As I’ve grown older, I’ve developed a deeper appreciation for the ritual of getting ready. Back when modeling dominated my life, I didn’t rely on makeup for personal expression outside shoots. Now, I genuinely enjoy the process and see it as a form of self-care. I believe makeup should serve you, not the other way around, and many women I speak with wear it for themselves rather than to please others.
Do you have a getting-ready ritual?
Music is a constant companion—lately, the soundtrack to Rent has been a surprisingly fitting choice. I like to leave myself plenty of time and not rush the process. Curling my hair while applying makeup feels comforting, and I often chat with friends during the routine. Sometimes a friend will sit nearby and talk with me as I work on my look.
Where do you draw inspiration for your makeup?
A lot of my inspiration comes from the artists I’ve worked with. Pioneering makeup artist Nina Park (who has been by my side for years) and Diane Kendall—who collaborates closely with François—have both influenced me. I’m always curious and ask questions during sessions, eager to learn about products and techniques.
You’ve had a long-standing relationship with François since he photographed you for Persona a decade ago. What does it feel like to reunite in this significant way?
François elevates beauty to a celebratory, artistic realm. That’s what’s drawn me to NARS: makeup that enhances rather than hides. François’ eye for color—especially blush pigments—set the bar high. He crafts shades that work well across skin tones and seasons, which is why I keep returning to NARS blushes—the formulas are excellent, but the pigments are what make them unforgettable.
Is there a piece of beauty wisdom that has stuck with you over the years?
My mom’s guidance still resonates: less is more. The idea is to let makeup be an extension of yourself rather than a mask you hide behind. Simplicity often yields the most natural, confident result.
Which product could you not live without?
There are many staples, but the Radiant Creamy Concealer remains a constant—essentially on my face 24/7 unless I’m sleeping. I’m also a devoted blush enthusiast; I’ve been drawn to NARS’ Orgasm blush since I was about 12, a memory that speaks to both good taste and enduring reliability. Growing up in a home with strong makeup taste clearly shaped my preferences.
Is there a makeup trend you’d love to try or one you’ll never embrace?
I genuinely adore the idea of skinny brows, even though I’m hesitant to commit fully. I worry mine wouldn’t recover if I over-tweezed. I can simulate the look, but I always pause during my period and resist the temptation to over-tweeze. A magnifying mirror is my worst enemy—getting rid of it is on my to-do list. Beyond that, I’m open to experimenting with many looks I’ve worn on set, which I might not first consider trying on myself until I see how they feel in person.
And this is where it gets controversial: bold brows vs. thinning trends have long divided beauty circles. Do you favor expressive, full brows as a timeless signature, or do you appreciate the drama and versatility of a sleeker shape? Join the conversation and share your stance in the comments.
