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Julia Roberts’ Secret to Looking Young May Just be Olive Oil and Sunscreen

Julia Roberts has a unique look and talent that lead her to play some of the most iconic roles in Hollywood history. From Shelby in Steel Magnolias, to Vivian in Pretty Woman, to the titular character in Erin Brockovich, Roberts brought a subtle poise and depth to each and every one of her characters, as …

Julia Roberts has a unique look and talent that lead her to play some of the most iconic roles in Hollywood history. From Shelby in Steel Magnolias, to Vivian in Pretty Woman, to the titular character in Erin Brockovich, Roberts brought a subtle poise and depth to each and every one of her characters, as well as undeniable beauty.

While her twenties may have been the height of her fame, she is still acting and stunning as ever at 52. Many celebrities young and old endorse and use a vast array of expensive beauty products to keep their youthful looks. Roberts, however, takes a far more simple approach that can be adopted by just about anyone.

Julia Roberts doesn’t see herself as ‘America’s Sweetheart’

Julia Roberts smiling in front of greenery
Julia Roberts | Stephane Cardinale – Corbis/Getty Images

In one of Variety’s Actors on Actors interviews, actress Patricia Arquette asked Roberts how it felt to be called “America’s Sweetheart.” Many attributed the title to her, especially in the peak of her rom-com successes. Roberts brushed the title away; she attributed the label to the fact that she was in a film of the same name. In the film, however, she played sister to the “sweetheart” Hollywood star character, played by Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Zeta-Jones was rarely viewed in the same way.

Roberts goes on to say that she’s “very unemotional about stuff like that” and doesn’t let the labels affect her. She explains that fans that meet her see her more like a neighbor, or someone familiar, than as a star.  One could argue, however, that that is precisely why she is viewed in such a way. The feeling of familiarity and closeness that fans associate with her is probably because Roberts, like her characters, is so down to earth and naturally beautiful. So what’s her secret to lasting beauty?

Julia Roberts follows a very simple skincare regiment

In interviews with Roberts over the years, it’s clear that she’s not one to go over the top with face and skin products. She follows tried and true skincare principles such as staying hydrated, using sunscreen, and never going to bed with makeup on.

In an interview with Viva she said she was low maintenance and then added: “On a regular day, I’ll just brush my teeth, wash my face, and apply sunblock. I’m a busy mom, and sometimes I just sunblock my kids and run outside and get my nose burned. So I’ve made a stronger effort to take care of myself.”

Roberts doesn’t seem all that concerned with her beauty routine and told InStyle, “Look, I’m happy if I have on moisturizer and ChapStick! When you’re dressing three people besides yourself, something has to fall away.”

When it comes to other beauty secrets, Vogue Italia reports that she uses extra-virgin olive oil on her hair, skin, and nails. And that trademark smile? She told InStyle that she brushes her teeth with baking soda, just like her grandfather.

Julia Roberts told Ellen a very different beauty secret

In 2017, Roberts was named Most Beautiful Woman by People magazine for the 5th time in her life. In an interview with Ellen, much like being called “America’s Sweetheart,” she rejected the title with grace, humility, and a little discomfort. 

When Ellen congratulated her on continuing to be the most beautiful, Roberts stumbled through her response: “‘Thank you’ is the appropriate response… but… it’s sweet… but it’s also kind of embarrassing, but then it’s flattering…”

When Ellen got serious and asked about her beauty tips Roberts responded: “I would say it’s genetics, and I would say it’s being around nice people that make you feel good.” She explained that her kids and their father are very loving, and she thinks that’s what makes people seem beautiful: kindness and love.