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Tate McRae turned heads at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards in a sleek boudoir-style white gown, paired with a glam look inspired by the iconic ’90s supermodel era. While her makeup was polished, the real secret to her radiant skin came before a single brush touched her face.
After her out-of-this-world performance, McRae shared a TikTok “get ready with me” video where she revealed part of her skincare prep, including the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer.
Soon after, her makeup artist, Lily Keys, also spoke out about the exact products and techniques behind McRae’s luminous complexion.
Lily Keys Reveals Tate McRae’s Skincare Prep Routine
Makeup artist Lily Keys shared that she prepped McRae’s complexion with a trio of Neutrogena staples, starting with the Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer.
“The skin has to feel alive before makeup even touches it,” Keys explained. To enhance the fresh, natural vibe, she used Neutrogena’s Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes and finished with the Healthy Skin Invisibly Radiant UV Primer SPF 30. Keys described the primer as “luminous, sheer, and perfect for layering if you want even more glow.”
Why Hydro Boost Works on Everyone
The Hydro Boost Water Gel has earned a cult following for its universally flattering formula. Unlike heavy creams, it has a lightweight, water-like texture that hydrates deeply without leaving behind grease or residue—making it a safe bet for oily, dry, or sensitive skin. With hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and olive extract in its formula, it plumps, softens, and strengthens the skin barrier all at once.
From Celebs to Shoppers: A Cross-Generational Favorite
McRae isn’t the only celebrity fan—Jennifer Garner has long been associated with the product, and more than 80,000 Amazon shoppers have also given it glowing feedback.
Younger users praise its lightweight texture and pore-blurring effect, while more mature reviewers report dramatic improvements in elasticity, fine lines, and even age spots. One customer wrote that it’s “great underneath makeup and sunscreen,” while another simply said they’ll “absolutely be purchasing again.”
A $15 Secret to McRae’s Radiance
For McRae, the Hydro Boost Water Gel was the foundation of a red-carpet look that felt effortless, fresh, and timeless. For everyday users, it’s a $15 Amazon find (currently discounted!) that promises that same “alive” glow—whether you’re stepping onto a stage, in front of a camera, or just into your daily routine.
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