Serena Williams' Makeup Artist Reveals the Secrets Behind the Tennis Star's Luminous Skin

Serena Williams is undoubtedly an American household name, the number-one ranked women's singles tennis player in the world and a woman whose proverbial (and literal) trophy case is fuller than imaginable. In short: Serena is a legend.

Whether she's smashing her racket on the court of the U.S. Open or starring alongside Usain Bolt in a Gatorade commercial, one thing that never goes unnoticed (but definitely isn't talked about enough) is her luminous skin. We had the chance to speak to the woman responsible for Serena's glow: Natasha Gross, a Miami-based makeup artist who has been a key player on Williams' glam squad for campaign shoots for Nike, Gatorade, Beats by Dre and Audemars Piguet, to name a few.

New Beauty: What is your go-to look for Serena's editorial shoots?
Natasha Gross: I love using NARS products! Its foundations and concealers are THE best. I love how they bring such luminosity to Serena's skin and match her complexion so well. I'm also a big fan of ColourPop matte lipsticks on shoots. It stays on so well and the colors are very pretty. 

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NB: Considering the effects that Serena's rigorous schedule can have on her skin, do you have any specific skin care products that you like to use on her to keep her skin looking clear and radiant?
NG: Her regimen is pretty simple, but I think her eating habits play a big part in the clarity and overall appearance of her skin. If you want beautiful skin, it starts with what you consume. Staying hydrated does wonders on your skin, too. And can't forget about the SPF!

NB: We can't help but to notice the smoky eye that Serena sports on the court. Do you know what products she uses?
NG: She does her own makeup for matches, which normally consists of eyeliner and I assume a very high SPF. 

NB: What is your go-to look for Serena's red-carpet appearances?
NG: Serena's makeup look pretty much stays the same from photoshoots to the red carpet. Minimal eye shadow, lashes, contouring and radiant skin. She might decide to do a neutral lip or something bolder. It just depends on what she's in the mood for. 

NB: When you're doing Serena's makeup, is it typically a collaborative effort?
NG: Well, normally for shoots the creative director has an idea of what (s)he wants. We do the "natural glam" look because most of the shoots I do for her require more of a sporty look. Every once in a while, I get a chance to do a little more so we might go for a bolder lip and add more lashes. 

NB: What is your favorite look that you've ever done on Serena?
NG: I love Serena with a bold lip; it looks so amazing on her. This has to be my fave makeup look I've done on her thus far! This was for her HSN (Home Shopping Network) shoot for her Serena Williams Signature Statement clothing line.

Concealer, hydration and a balanced diet are Serena's secrets for luminous skin. Tennis stars—they're just like us!