Romero Jennings is a social media pro. Once in front of the camera to share his evening routine with The Nod, he’s off. No retakes.
That same precise expertise defines his role as director of make-up artistry at MAC Cosmetics. Jennings first joined the cosmetics giant in the 1990s, and has spent more than 30 years mastering his craft, travelling the world to both absorb and share beauty knowledge. He often credits music for shaping his aesthetic—drawing inspiration from icons like Grace Jones, Debbie Harry, and David Bowie. Jennings has also lent his expertise to a number of runway shows and fashion photoshoots as an independent artist, and even created customised make-up looks for The Sims 4.
With decades of experience in the beauty industry, you can bet he knows a thing or two about keeping skin in good shape. His own flawless, dewy complexion—an ideal canvas for make-up—might suggest a complex 30-step skincare routine. Yet, Jennings keeps it refreshingly simple, relying on just four products. “My commute is a two-hour long drive so I can’t wait to get back and take everything off,” he says.
Slugging is a major part of his skincare routine, but not as the final step. Instead of slathering the face with an occlusive agent, Jennings extensively massages his face with an oil-based cleanser to de-puff for the next day. “It’s just polishing the skin, taking the top layers off, and you’re also moulding the skin where you want it to be,” he shares. “I really make a ritual out of it.”
Below, the legendary make-up artist details his evening routine, including the PM skincare regimen that gives him his glowing skin.
What time do you usually get back from work?
On office days, I start early, waking up at 5:30 am to get to work by 8:30 am. I typically finish by 5 pm and reach home around 6:30 pm.
What’s the first thing you do after you get home?
Three evenings a week, I change into gym clothes and work out for an hour before heading home to prepare a fresh salad or order dinner. By 8:30 or 9:30 pm, I sit down to eat, then unwind in front of the TV while I scroll through social media.
What’s your go-to comfort meal for a night in?
Ordering Indian or Chinese food! But if time permits, I will make Jamaican food. My late-night snacks are 10-calorie jello or 50-calorie applesauce.
Do you drink tea or a glass of wine at the end of the day?
I never drink at home because I would rather eat most of my calories. I might have a cocktail when dining out to be social and celebrate with friends and family. But to cap the evening, I treat myself to a soothing cup of ginger and mint tea with honey. I savour each sip—it feels therapeutic, like a detox for both body and mind, and helps me reflect on the day while preparing for tomorrow.
How much time do you typically spend on social media in the evenings?
I usually spend two-three hours on social media to engage with global audiences on Instagram, LinkedIn, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, and sometimes YouTube.
Do you have any nightly rituals that help you decompress?
Checking on my parents and knowing they are doing well gives me comfort and peace. And I really make a ritual out of removing make-up, cleansing, and slugging my face with oil.
What time do you usually turn in?
1:00 am
What’s the last thing you do before you go to bed?
Sometimes I prep my kit for two or three hours if I have a make-up job the next day. I always check the next day’s schedule. I also take a moment to lay out my outfit for the next day to avoid rushing in the mornings. Finally, I do a last check-in on social media before settling into bed at around 1:00 am.
Video: Kris Arshad. Concept: Chloe Chou. Multimedia designer: Mehak Jindal. Social media editor: Diya Parakh
