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Rapid Fire: Karen Gillan Talks Gel Manis, La Mer and the Magic of a Good Facial Massage

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Rapid Fire: Karen Gillan Talks Gel Manis, La Mer and the Magic of a Good Facial Massage
Photography: Kristen Jan Wong | Stylist: Siena Montesano | Makeup: Jenna Kristina | Hair: Clayton Hawkins
This article first appeared in the Summer 2025 issue of NewBeauty. Click here to subscribe

With a new baby and The Life of Chuck on tap this summer, Scottish-born actress Karen Gillan—best known for Doctor Who, Jumanji and Marvel movies, including Guardians of the Galaxy and Avengers—doesn’t have a ton of time to relax. But, when she does, she enjoys visiting the salon her childhood friend runs and “splashing out” on a good dinner.

Beauty to me is...gratitude.

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The greatest thing about aging is…not caring as much about what people think of you.

I feel most beautiful when…I’m creating films in my denim jacket.

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The beauty move I still can’t master is…not looking like a slob every time I’m in my own house!

The beauty treatment I leave to the pros is…a gel manicure.

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The beauty treatment I can’t live without is…getting my nails done.

The beauty treatment I splurge on is…La Mer moisturizer.

The beauty product I always have with me is…concealer.

The last beauty-related thing I did for the first time was…Pilates. I’m five months postpartum, and it feels so good to be getting strong again.

I am proudest of…my baby daughter.

The beauty hack I’ve learned while getting ready on set is…skin prep is everything. And, a face massage feels so rejuvenating and sculpts my seriously round face.

The first big splurge I bought myself when I started booking roles was…a Chanel bag that I lost! I had a truly horrible apartment that was robbed.

The best bathroom run-in I’ve ever had at an awards show was with…I literally can’t think of one!

The one store I shop at the most is…Opening Ceremony. Is that still open these days? It’s been a while since I went shopping because I keep buying clothes from the photo shoots I do!

The last product I used until the end was…MAC foundation.

My favorite indulgence is…food. I will splash out on a good dinner.

My favorite way to unwind is… a bath with all the bath salts and low lighting.

My first beauty memory is…my best friend growing up introduced me to makeup. She now runs a salon, and it is my go-to for nails when I’m in Scotland.

My biggest beauty muse is…Pre-Raphaelite. I’m really enjoying that vibe right now.

My must-pack beauty item when I fly is…liquid eyeliner for a cheeky night out.

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