Paris-based hairdresser Ciara Costenoble, grew up in Alexandria, Virginia and once we delve into her morning routine, we take it right back to those early days.

Ciara shares some beautiful memories of being inspired by her grandmother, Hope, who loved to dress up at any opportunity, even if she was just picking up the mail or going to the pharmacy. Ciara watched her grandmother do her skincare and apply her Mary Kay makeup and, later on, realised that it was about more than expression - in fact it was more in an effort to form some kind of resilience around the colourism that was prevalent within society. We talk about how colourism can show up and about Ciara's first hair experiments - at the age of 7.

Pretty much a tomboy when she was younger, it was only once Ciara began working in a salon at 14 that she gained an insight into what other girls and women were doing with their hair, and also how boys would look at girls who dressed in a more feminine style.

We also discuss the controversial Netflix show Emily in Paris, and Ciara talks about how it’s really not a true example of exactly who is moving to Paris from the States, as in: it’s not just white people who choose to travel and explore, duh. She’s also very vocal about her views on being an American in Paris. Of course we touch on the cult of the French pharmacy and Ciara shares that she’s learned to embrace a more simple beauty routine since moving to France. 

We also talk about how Ciara has learned to take time to romance herself during lockdown. Honestly, I couldn't have chosen a better way to close 2020. I am so grateful for the fact that you choose to listen to BeautyMe, and can't wait to see you in 2021. Take care of yourselves and see you on the other side. Follow Ciara @ciaracoiffure and you can find me @beautymepodcast

P.S. If you could rate, review and subscribe the podcast, it will help BeautyMe be seen.

Products mentioned:

Sunday Riley Tidal Brightening Enzyme Water Cream: https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/sunday-riley-tidal-brightening-enzyme-water-cream.html

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Sun Protection Invisible SPF50 Face Mist: https://www.boots.com/la-roche-posay-anthelios-sunscreen-face-mist-spf-50-75ml-10217616

La Roche-Posay Cicaplast B5 Soothing Repairing Balm: https://www.lookfantastic.com/la-roche-posay-cicaplast-baume-b5-soothing-repairing-balm-40ml/11091816.html