"The White Lotus" Makeup Head Reveals Secrets For Season 3 Looks

From sun-kissed complexions to effortless radiance, the beauty in The White Lotus is as captivating as the show itself. But how do you achieve that luminous, vacation-ready skin — especially in hot, humid climates? We spoke with Rebecca Hickey, the makeup visionary behind all three seasons of The White Lotus, to uncover her expert tips for achieving that signature glow. 

Rebecca is an Emmy-nominated makeup artist known for her transformative work in television and film. With over two decades of experience, she has led the makeup department for various high-profile productions, including HBO’s acclaimed series The White Lotus. 

Her career began in New York City, where she transitioned from a pharmaceutical temp job to pursuing her passion for beauty. Since training at the Makeup Designory in LA, Rebecca has become a sought-after professional, crafting iconic on-screen looks that bring characters to life. 

In The White Lotus, each season unfolds at a different luxury resort, with season three set in Thailand. The tropical climate and vibrant setting played a major role in shaping the show’s beauty aesthetic, and Rebecca and her team designed fresh, glowing makeup looks that seamlessly blend with the series’ signature visual storytelling. 

You can watch Rebecca below unveil a few of her favorite products used on the set of The White Lotus.

Inside The Makeup Trailer: A Conversation With Rebecca Hickey 

Tell us how you started as a professional makeup artist.

I've been obsessed with all things beauty since I was tearing pages out of Seventeen magazine as a kid. I didn’t know being a makeup artist was a real profession until after college when I moved to NYC. I was working a temp job at a pharmaceutical company and knew I had to find my creativity again. My parents encouraged me to try makeup school — and two months later, I was on my way to LA to attend the Makeup Designory. Fast forward 20 years, and now I run the makeup department for various TV shows. 

How have Eminence Organics products played a role in your makeup looks for The White Lotus? 

We are big fans of Eminence Organics at The White Lotus. I think the brand perfectly aligns with our beauty philosophy. For me, it’s all about beautiful, fresh and glowy skin. Eminence Organics' products truly deliver results, and you can actually smell the essence, so you know you’re getting the true form of the ingredients. 

What are your favorite makeup & skin care looks from the show? 

I really loved Meghann Fahy’s makeup last season with the gem-colored eyes and creamy cheeks. I took that one step further this year with Leslie Bibb’s character, and I love the '60s vibe I created on Aimee Lou Wood for her dinner scenes this season. 

Which Eminence Organics products are your on-set favorites?

Stone Crop anything! The Stone Crop Cleansing Oil and the Stone Crop Hydrating Mist are heroes. The Citrus Lip Balm works perfectly under lipstick, and the Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant exfoliates the skin so it’s prepped and ready for makeup. I also love the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum, the Eight Greens Youth Serum and the Facial Recovery Oil to give that White Lotus glow! One more — the Yuzu Solid Body Oil is perfection. 

What are your on-set tips & tricks? 

I love to pat the Facial Recovery Oil over makeup for midday hydration and to keep the skin glowing. The Lime Refresh Tonique or Stone Crop Hydrating Mist are great to reactivate and refresh the makeup while doing touch-ups throughout the day. 

How does skin care differ when filming in humid & sunny climates?

A lot of exfoliation and a lot of hydration! It’s interesting how your skin can really dry out in humid climates. I think it’s a time that our skin needs a little extra TLC. I love that we can use Eminence Organics products under and over makeup to keep the skin happy and glowing!

Pictured: Rebecca after receiving a facial from Eminence Organics' International Educator, Brian Goodwin

How do you collaborate with hair & costume departments to create a cohesive character look?

I love to see the fitting photos and what direction our costume designer, Alex Bovaird, is going in for each character. That gets the juices flowing, and then there are a lot of mood boards and meetings with the hair team to make sure we're creating a cohesive look! I always want everyone to feel relatable in some regard, so attention to details like nail colors are important in achieving this. 

Final Touches on The White Lotus Look 

Eminence Organics is proud to support the cast and crew of The White Lotus, providing skin care solutions that keep their complexions fresh and glowing on set.

You can learn more by viewing our Celeb Love Page and see what many celebrities are saying. Or, explore our full range of products by visiting your nearest Eminence Organics Spa.