What do Kim Kardashian, Drew Barrymore, and Jennifer Lopez all have in common? They share the same hairstylist. England-born, Los Angeles–based stylist Chris Appleton is the beauty genius behind some of their iconic looks. “It’s amazing to have people put their trust in me for so many important moments in their lives,” he shares with the Cut.
Appleton entered the hair industry long before working with A-listers — he studied cosmetology in England and got his start working in salons. “My inspiration was really making people look and feel good,” whether he’s on set during Fashion Week or working on editorial shoots for the likes of GQ and Vogue.
And when he’s not getting major celebs ready for major moments like the Golden Globes and the Met Gala, he’s making time for his own self-care practices. “I’m always on the go, so taking time out to recharge is super-important to me,” he says. “Also, it seems contradictory for me to be working in beauty and making people look and feel amazing if I’m not looking after myself!”
On that note, Appleton shares his beauty routine and wellness practices below.
A.M. Routine
I typically start my beauty routine around 7 a.m., and I can do it pretty quickly — in about seven minutes! I’ll usually start by meditating to clear my mind and set intentions and jump into the beauty part right after. I’m all about taking a 360-degree approach to beauty now, which means including supplements and skin-care and hair-care products.
I start with my morning meditations and setting intentions. Next, I head straight to the kitchen for my supplements. I’ve added Revive Collagen into my daily beauty routine. It comes in a compact liquid sachet that goes down so easily in the morning. I throw one into my hair kit if I forget, if I’m on the move for work. It really gives you that lasting radiance and shine when you take it consistently and also helps keep the skin looking plump.
After that, I use SkinMedica’s Facial Cleanser and their TNS Advanced+ Serum to help diminish fine lines and wrinkles. Next, I moisturize my face using the HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator for a radiant tone, and I finish off my skin care with sunscreen. Obviously, living in L.A., it’s really important.
Now we’re on to hair. I use the Dream Cocktail Kale-Infused Leave-In Treatment from Color Wow to help keep it strong with the bleach underneath. I’m also into the La Mer skin masks, as they help your skin glow, so I’ll throw that into the routine if I need an extra glow.
P.M. Routine
When I finally get back to my hotel or get home from a long day, I check in with my family — daughter, son, mom, and dad — and then I usually meditate for about 30 minutes to clear my mind.
On Movement
I do a lot of strength training. When I am home, I go to Dogpound for training, and when I am on the go, I have specific exercises I turn to that work well in a hotel gym, which may not have all of the equipment I am used to. It’s important for me to get my body moving and stick to a routine. Moving my body gives me energy, and it’s something my body is used to, so it helps to keep me on point no matter where I am.
On the Beauty Items He’s Noticed a Difference From
Revive Collagen. I get everything I need from one sachet! It keeps me energized on the go, complements my fitness routine, and gives me that glow from within. I also love facials, a skin laser, and keeping my hair in shape. For me, fitness is very important not only for the physical aspect but also for the mental benefits that come with fitness, and, of course, I love massages.
On Rest
I’m always on the go, traveling across the world and different time zones, so it can be tricky to get a good rest. Staying consistent with my exercise routine and getting in a workout daily really helps to clear my mind, get rid of jet lag, and help me sleep. Regardless of where I am, I try to eat healthy and stick to a routine.
