How Alicia Keys’ Makeup Artist Spends $100 on Beauty Products

In the age of less-is-more makeup, no one is in higher demand than New York City-based makeup artist Dotti, whose glowy-faced clients include A-listers the likes of Alicia Keys, Emma Watson, and Olivia Munn. “My friends say that I am the most elegant hippie they know,” she admits. “But I would describe myself as an Yves Saint Laurent-chic hippie.”

Despite being known for her decidedly no-makeup-makeup aesthetic, she got her start under the wings of Richard Sharah (the man who famously painted David Bowie’s scary monsters look). So when you take a scroll through her well-edited Instagram, don't be surprised to see graphic lids and glittered brows in tandem with beaming skin, because she's all about versatility.

As for her own regimen? She sticks to a diet of raw, vegan foods and dedicates plenty of time to exercise, standing by the fact that being healthy is not only about what you put in your body, but also what you put on it. Here, her picks to nail the natural look on repeat.

Keep scrolling to find out her top picks for a natural, glowing complexion.

Cliganic 100% Pure Organic Jojoba Oil, $10

“I use this twice a day on my face and body,” says Dotti. “It’s the one thing I will mix in with face and body creams. Jojoba oil is very close to the natural sebum our body produces. The secret is that you have to have water on the skin before applying. Having damp skin helps it absorb quickly.”

Cupping Therapy Set, $11

“I use this cupping tool after applying (jojoba) oil. It awakens the face and eliminates facial tension. It also releases stress, stimulates blood flow, and promotes lymphatic drainage," she says. "Starting from your lower neck, drag the suction up-and-out until you reach the top of your forehead. The oil adds slip to make it easily glide over the face.”

Avene Thermal Mineral Spray, $14

“I love my thermal mineral spray. It’s a staple in my makeup kit for many reasons. First, before applying makeup, I use it to to clean the skin or I’ll massage it into the skin to help hydrate," she tells me. "Sometimes I use it to set makeup at the end or to refresh. Also, in the summer I keep it in the refrigerator to freshen up my own skin. It really helps revive dehydrated skin.”

Lucas Papaw Ointment, $10

“I’m an ultimate Lucas Papaw fan for my lips, face, and knees,” admits Dotti. “You can also use it on your feet or elbows—really anywhere that is in need of repair. I grew up using it and have always loved it because it does what it says it will do. For example, if your lips are in really bad shape, you can guarantee that if you put Papaw on before bed, you’ll wake up with perfectly soft and repaired lips. I love that.”

M.A.C Eye Pencil in Coffee, $18

“This is the best brown because it’s neither warm nor cool,” explains Dotti. “It’s one of the easiest shades—you can put it around the eye, smudge it out, or do anything. It can be sexy or more rock and roll. It’s one of those colors that you can work into anything and, generally, it looks good on everyone. It has been a staple in my kit forever.”

Diorshow Mascara, $30

“When it comes to mascara, I don’t want to be able to see it,” says Dotti. “It should just look like a tint, super light and feathery. I love this Dior one because you can layer it and build it up really well without it getting clumpy. I also find that it doesn’t dry out fast, which is a huge plus.”

Speaking of mascara, here are a ten editor-approved ones, and this is the reason that you should never apply a face oil before your foundation.