Sonam Kapoor to HELLO! India: "Indian representation today feels more self-assured than ever before"

It's been nearly two decades since Sonam Kapoor stepped into the spotlight and found her feet as one of India's foremost fashion icons who has turned heads on red carpets and front rows across the world. Now, the Indian film star is expanding her influence as the first Indian brand ambassador for Lancôme; which is yet another notch in her belt. As the exciting news was unveiled, HELLO! India spoke exclusively to the star to look back at how it all began, how Lancôme reflects her personal values and what it means for Indian representation in the global beauty sphere.

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HELLO! India: At what age did you begin venturing into the skincare world?

Sonam Kapoor: I became more conscious of skincare in my late teens, largely because of my work. Being on film sets, under harsh lights, and wearing makeup regularly made me realise very early that skincare wasn’t optional; it’s an essential. That exposure pushed me to understand what I was using on my skin and why, and it shaped a far more informed approach from a young age.

HELLO! India: Who is one person who sets pure skincare goals for you, and why?

Sonam Kapoor: My mother, definitely. Her disciplined and consistent skincare wasn’t about trends. Watching her showed me results come from patience and commitment. That mindset guides my choices too.

HELLO! India: As Lancôme’s first Indian brand ambassador, how strongly do you believe Indian representation is making its mark globally?

Sonam Kapoor: Indian representation today feels stronger, more confident, and more self-assured than ever before. There’s a global appreciation for diversity, individuality, and cultural depth, and Indian voices are increasingly part of that narrative. Being part of this moment is meaningful because it reflects how Indian perspectives are contributing to global beauty conversations, on our own terms, with authenticity and confidence.

HELLO! India: What’s a beauty secret that has been passed down through your generations?

Sonam Kapoor: Simplicity has always been the foundation. Growing up, skincare was never about doing too much. The focus was on proper cleansing, hydration, and allowing the skin to breathe. That belief of effective skincare doesn’t have to be complicated, has stayed with me. Even today, I gravitate towards routines that are intentional, uncomplicated, and focused on maintaining skin health rather than constantly correcting it.

HELLO! India: How does your association with Lancôme reflect your personal values?

Sonam Kapoor: My association with Lancôme feels deeply aligned with how I view beauty today. It’s not about excess or instant gratification, but about consistency, care, and respecting the skin over time. That thoughtful, measured philosophy resonates strongly with me.

HELLO! India: What qualities do you look for when selecting skincare products?

Sonam Kapoor: I look at high-performance formulations, science-backed claims, ingredients details and a clear purpose. Transparency and credibility matter a great deal to me. I’m also mindful of how products perform over time, how they support the skin’s health, resilience, and balance. Trends come and go, but consistency, efficacy, and trust in the science behind a product are what truly influence my choices today.

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HELLO! India: What’s a beauty product that you never miss in your routine?

Sonam Kapoor: Hydration is non-negotiable for me, for me Lancôme Génifique Ultimate Skin Repair Serum is the serum to go for. It’s the one step I’m most consistent with because it works at a deeper level, supporting skin strength, repair, and overall quality. Even when my routine is minimal, that’s the one product I never skip because it forms the foundation of healthy skin. Even when I am traveling, it is always in my vanity.

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