When USHER steps out onto the red carpet, his glow is more than just natural charm—it’s the result of a meticulously planned grooming routine led by his trusted team. Maintaining a fresh, sharp fade for big events is definitely a team effort. Since USHER’s hair is fine and curly, the process starts with applying a lightweight, oil-based waving foam. This gives texture and hold without the heaviness of pomades, which can lead to forehead breakouts. After brushing the foam until it’s dry to set the style, his barber, Shizz, defines the lines with a razor and gradually fades the beard into the temples for a natural, seamless look.
USHER’s long-standing relationship with his team is key to achieving his polished style. Shizz, a close friend of over 20 years, and his groomer, Lola Okanlawon, who has worked with him for nearly four years, collaborate closely to bring each look to life. “We keep our communication open, discussing what needs to be done to achieve the vision,” he shared. Shizz focuses on perfecting the cut, while Okanlawon preps USHER’s skin and applies complexion products to ensure his look is natural and polished. For major events like the EBONY Power 100 Gala, Okanlawon’s thoughtful approach to product choices and precision ensures USHER’s skin looks hydrated, flawless and camera-ready.
Here’s a look inside the grooming secrets that help him stay fresh-faced, flawless and powerful.
1. Pre-Event Skin Prep for That Iconic Glow
The journey to a radiant red carpet appearance begins days before the event. Okanlawon prioritizes hydration and addresses skin issues by scheduling a facial a few days before the big night. This early treatment ensures USHER’s skin is deeply nourished and primed to hold its glow under the spotlight.
To maintain hydration, Okanlawon instructs USHER to apply Danucera Cream Supreme the night before. The rich, hydrating formula keeps his skin soft and supple, setting a smooth foundation for his event-day skincare steps.
2. The Event-Day Routine: Layering Products for Flawless Skin
On the day of the EBONY Power 100 Gala, Okanlawon carefully crafts a routine that emphasizes balance, hydration and subtle luminosity. Starting with a gentle cleanse using Acne Expert’s Skincare Soothing Gentle Cleanser, she ensures his skin is free from impurities. Next, she uses Danucera D22 Tonic Toner to balance the skin’s PH, prepping it for maximum absorption of each product to follow.
For the under-eye area, she applies Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Pure Retinol Eye Masks to reduce puffiness and give USHER’s eyes a refreshed, wide-awake look. Brightening and hydration follow with CeraVe’s Vitamin C Serum, which evens out skin tone, and CeraVe Vitamin Eye Cream to address any dark circles.
Price: $72
Okanlawon then locks in hydration with the Marie-Claire Acne Expert Hydrating Moisturizer before layering SPF for UV protection. For a flawless finish, she uses Danessa Myricks Beauty Skin Blurring Beauty Balm to smooth and perfect his complexion. Any blemishes or hyperpigmentation are gently concealed with Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Lift and Flex Hydrating Concealer, followed by a touch of translucent loose powder for a long-lasting set.
Price: $30
3. Final Touches: Lips, Mists, and That Lasting Red-Carpet Effect
To ensure USHER’s lips stay soft and hydrated, Okanlawon applies LaMer Lip Balm, completing his look with a spritz of Caudalie Beauty Elixir. This final step refreshes his skin, locking in the dewy, natural finish essential for a lasting red-carpet glow.
4. Maintaining the Look: Hydration, Skin Prep, and Smart Travel Essentials
Okanlawon emphasizes that hydration is the foundation of great skin, which requires consistency and care. Alongside good rest, a healthy diet, and water intake, she keeps USHER’s routine simple yet powerful. For skincare, she advises essentials like a reliable cleanser, lightweight moisturizer with SPF and a serum targeting his specific needs—whether for hydration or brightening.
When traveling, Okanlawon keeps USHER’s routine streamlined and efficient. Essentials like the Acne Expert cleanser, CeraVe Vitamin C Serum, and Shiseido Eye Masks keep his skin refreshed, while the Caudalie Beauty Elixir provides a quick reset anytime his skin needs a boost.
5. Grooming Wisdom: The Keys to a Polished Look
Okanlawon’s approach to USHER’s grooming combines meticulous product layering with simple practices. For anyone aiming to replicate this polished look, she recommends focusing on skin prep, hydration, and a less-is-more philosophy. SPF is a must, protecting skin from UV damage and ensuring an even complexion, while a serum, lip balm, and eye mask provide that finishing touch. The result? A red-carpet look that feels fresh, timeless, and effortlessly elegant—just like USHER himself.
