It’s not often that men wear a full face of makeup six days a week, but for a Broadway stage actor like Omar Lopez-Cepero that’s a typical workweek.
Lopez-Cepero has been seen on Broadway in such shows as American Idiot, On Your Feet!, and The Unsinkable Molly Brown. He recently toured around the country starring as Judas in the 50th Anniversary Production of Jesus Christ Superstar. Additionally, Lopez-Cepero was seen playing the role of Che in the groundbreaking new revival production of Evita playing at American Repertory Theater and Shakespeare Theater in Boston, and just finished starring as Emile De Becque in South Pacific at the historic Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam, CT. He has also been seen on television with guest starring appearances on The Detour, Blue Bloods, and Vegas.
Having to take care of his skin more diligently and follow a strict cleansing routine after shows is what keeps his face healthy, clear, and bright. He also integrates anti-aging products into his regimen to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and under-eye bags—especially for on-camera acting work.
Playboy: What is your daily skincare routine?
Lopez-Cepero: My routine has evolved as I’ve gotten older and wiser. I have always washed my face at night, but I’ve added some additional steps to my skincare regimen that have made difference. I use Cerave foaming facial cleanser because I never go to bed without showering and washing my face—especially after a show—otherwise I would breakout badly.
Playboy talked to Lopez-Cepero to share his tips with other men looking to clean up their game.
Over the last few years, I have added products to help combat wrinkles and hydration. My second step after washing is applying under-eye gel to combat bags and dark circles. I’m currently using Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Gel. This product has really helped with my main problem areas under and around my eyes.
Next I apply retinol to my face. I’m currently using Vichy Liftactiv Pure Retinol Serum. I then moisturize with Neutrogena Triple Age Repair Night Moisturizer. And lastly, I finish with a rose water spray from Trader Joe’s to add an extra bit of moisture.
Pro tip: Trader Joe’s has some great inexpensive products. My daytime routine is Trader Joe’s ultra Hydrating Gel Moisturizer plus Trader Joe’s Supreme Hydrating Eye Cream. Lastly, and very important—sunscreen. I am currently using Curology Everyday SPF 30 sunscreen.
Playboy: What are some tips you would share with other men on how to keep their skin clean and clear?
Lopez-Cepero: Always wash your face at night, wear suncreen everyday, wear moisturizer (especially at night), and listen to the women around you because they’ve been taking care of their skin much longer than we have.
Playboy: How has wearing stage makeup affected your skin over the years?
Lopez-Cepero: I actually use street makeup because stage makeup can be oil-based and I tend to break out. I mostly use a mineral powder but, in some instances, I need something a bit more dramatic for a particular role. For me, it’s about cleaning my face thoroughly and keeping it moisturized.
Playboy: How do you maintain and groom your beard?
Lopez-Cepero: Maintaining my beard depends on the length. I use a Wahl beard trimmer to maintain the length and a beard brush so that it grows in the direction I want it to. When it’s longer, I use a beard cream to soften it. When it’s shorter, I use a straight-edge razor to shape it.
Playboy: What do you feel is your best-kept secret for men’s skincare?
Lopez-Cepero: Find what works for you. There are a lot of products out there and it’s not one-size-fits-all. My best advice: listen to your female friends or wives!
Playboy: What advice would you give other guys who are looking to get started on their skincare journey?
Lopez-Cepero: For some, having too many steps at night can be annoying. It certainly was for me at first, but my wife does way more than I do and she looks 10 years younger than her age. It truly makes a difference and sometimes it’s not an immediate change, but the results come from consistency. I started implementing some of the things she does and it honestly has made a difference for me. I notice it the most when I’m doing on-camera acting and have an Ultra Hi-def camera in my face, which picks up everything. It has been amazing to see that difference over the last few years.