Laverne Cox Reveals the $4 Secret to Her Flawless Skin — and It's Not What You'd Expect

By Emily Orofino

Updated on 9/20/2016 at 10:00 PM

Getty | Barry King
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If you've been keeping up with her on Orange Is the New Black, you know that with or without makeup, Laverne Cox is stunningly beautiful. Last night at the 2016 Emmys, she presented the award for outstanding directing for a variety special looking like a golden goddess. Laverne exclusively told POPSUGAR how she (along with makeup artist Deja Davenport and hairstylist Kiyah Wright) prepped for the evening. She also generously revealed her beauty idol, the products she always repurchases, and the unexpected drugstore secret behind her flawless complexion. Read on!

Getty | David Livingston

POPSUGAR: How do you get centered and focused before a big award show?
Laverne Cox: I like to make sure that I have a moment to myself and to collect my thoughts before show time. I focus on myself and my breathing.

PS: Do you look to anyone for beauty inspiration? If so, who?
LC: Beyoncé! She is so fierce, I find myself channeling my inner Beyoncé often.

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PS: Is there a particular beauty look or product that makes you feel especially confident on a night like this? If so, what is it?
LC: I love contouring, no matter the look I am going for. My makeup artist Deja Davenport contoured my face tonight with the AJ Crimson Artist Palette ($150), and I am loving my look.

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PS: Your skin always looks SO good — what is your regimen?
LC: I've kept my skin care routine very simple over the years. I use Johnson and Johnson's Baby Shampoo ($4) to wash my face. It was suggested to me a long time ago, and I've used it ever since.

PS: Which beauty product do you always repurchase and why?
LC: I find that my Revlon Grow Luscious Mascara (discontinued) and pressed powder by L'Oréal ($11) are my go-to products when I want to keep my everyday look simple.