Sonam Kapoor Gives a Lesson in ’90s Bollywood Beauty | Beauty Secrets

The 1990s marked a significant era in Bollywood, characterized by vibrant films, memorable music, and iconic fashion statements. Among the many stars who defined this decade, Sonam Kapoor stands out not only for her acting prowess but also for her impeccable sense of style and beauty. In a recent tutorial, Sonam shared her beauty secrets, drawing inspiration from the quintessential Bollywood look of the 90s. This article delves into her makeup routine, skincare tips, and the cultural significance of her beauty choices, showcasing how the past continues to influence contemporary beauty standards.

The Foundation of Beauty: Skincare

Before diving into makeup, Sonam emphasizes the importance of skincare. She begins her routine with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant known for its brightening properties. By patting it onto her skin and neck, she ensures a radiant base for her makeup. This step is crucial, as healthy skin is the canvas upon which all makeup is applied.

Following vitamin C, Sonam applies a moisturizer recommended by her dermatologist, Dr. Lancer. Moisturizing is essential for maintaining skin hydration, especially for those who frequently wear makeup. Sonam also highlights the importance of using sunblock, mixing it with Doctor Sturm’s Anti-Pollution Drops to protect her skin from environmental damage. This combination not only shields her from harmful UV rays but also combats pollution, a significant concern for urban dwellers.

Sonam’s approach to skincare reflects a broader trend in the beauty industry, where the focus has shifted from heavy makeup to achieving a natural glow through proper skincare. This philosophy resonates with many, as it promotes the idea that beauty starts from within.

The Art of Makeup: A Nod to the 90s

With her skincare routine complete, Sonam transitions to makeup, channeling the classic Bollywood look that defined the 90s. She begins with an orange corrector to address dark circles and pigmentation, a common concern for many women, especially those with deeper skin tones. Sonam notes the lack of suitable products for Indian skin, highlighting the need for brands to cater to diverse beauty needs.

Once her corrector is applied, she moves on to concealer and a light foundation. This step is crucial for achieving a flawless complexion without looking overly made-up. Sonam’s emphasis on using minimal foundation aligns with the current trend of “no-makeup makeup,” where the goal is to enhance natural beauty rather than mask it.

One of the standout features of Sonam’s makeup routine is her focus on the eyes. She uses a NARS pencil to create a smudgy brown look, a signature style of the 90s that accentuates the eyes. This technique, often referred to as “kohl-rimmed eyes,” is a staple in Indian beauty, symbolizing femininity and allure. By applying kajal inside her eyes, Sonam enhances their size and shape, making them appear larger and more expressive.

Color and Contour: Bringing Life to the Face

Sonam’s makeup routine is not just about achieving a flawless base; it’s also about adding color and dimension to her face. She applies a pink blush to the apples of her cheeks, a technique that brightens her complexion and gives her a youthful appearance. This step is particularly important for those with smaller or narrower faces, as it adds warmth and vitality.

In addition to blush, Sonam uses bronzer to bring back the shape of her face after applying foundation. This technique is essential for creating a sculpted look, as foundation can sometimes flatten the natural contours of the face. By using the same brush for her eyeshadow and bronzer, Sonam demonstrates a practical approach to makeup application, emphasizing that beauty doesn’t have to be complicated.

Highlighting the Features: The Finishing Touches

As Sonam continues her makeup routine, she incorporates highlighter to accentuate her features. Applying highlighter to her brow bone and other strategic areas enhances her bone structure and adds a luminous glow. This step is a testament to the evolving beauty standards that celebrate radiance and luminosity over matte finishes.

One of the most entertaining moments in Sonam’s tutorial is when she discusses curling her lashes. With a playful anecdote about curling her husband’s lashes, she highlights the transformative power of mascara. By applying mascara to her lashes, Sonam completes her eye makeup, creating a dramatic effect that draws attention to her eyes.

The Power of Lip Color: A Statement of Confidence

No makeup look is complete without the perfect lip color, and for Sonam, that color is a bold red. She uses “Dragon Girl” by NARS, a shade that has become synonymous with her signature look. Sonam expresses how wearing red lipstick empowers her, allowing her to feel confident and ready to conquer the world. This sentiment resonates with many women, as lip color often serves as a form of self-expression and empowerment.

Sonam’s approach to lip color also reflects a broader trend in the beauty industry, where bold lip shades are celebrated as a means of self-expression. The resurgence of classic red lips in contemporary beauty is a nod to the timeless allure of the 90s, where actresses like Madhuri Dixit and Sridevi made red lips a staple of their looks.

Cultural Significance: Embracing Tradition

As Sonam completes her makeup, she adds traditional elements that reflect her cultural heritage. Applying sindoor, a mark worn by married women in India, and a bindi, she embraces her identity and the significance of these symbols. The act of wearing sindoor and a bindi is not just a beauty choice; it is a celebration of her marital status and cultural roots.

Sonam’s incorporation of these traditional elements into her modern makeup routine highlights the intersection of contemporary beauty and cultural identity. It serves as a reminder that beauty is not just about aesthetics; it is also about embracing one’s heritage and the stories that come with it.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of 90s Bollywood Beauty

Sonam Kapoor’s makeup tutorial is more than just a demonstration of beauty techniques; it is a celebration of the timeless allure of 90s Bollywood. Through her skincare and makeup routine, she pays homage to an era that continues to influence contemporary beauty standards. By emphasizing the importance of skincare, the art of makeup, and the significance of cultural symbols, Sonam inspires a new generation to embrace their beauty, both inside and out.

As we reflect on the beauty trends of the past, it is clear that the lessons learned from icons like Sonam Kapoor will continue to resonate for years to come. The fusion of modern techniques with traditional elements creates a unique narrative that celebrates diversity, individuality, and the enduring power of beauty. In a world where beauty standards are constantly evolving, Sonam’s journey serves as a reminder that true beauty is timeless, transcending trends and cultural boundaries.