By Jia Lissa 
If the recent season of the highly popular reality competition series The Traitors served as your initial introduction to Maura Higgins, then welcome to the compelling world of this dynamic Irish personality. The 35-year-old star first captured the public’s attention during her impactful appearance on season five of the equally famous dating show, Love Island UK. Her time on Love Island saw her quickly endear herself to viewers with her signature blend of unfiltered honesty, a fiery and captivating personality, and memorable catchphrases. While her demeanor on The Traitors was notably more subdued than her Love Island days, Higgins undeniably left a significant impression. She navigated the treacherous landscape of the game as a "faithful" contestant, only to face a devastating betrayal in the finale. Her trust was shattered by Rob Rausch, another former Love Island contestant, who was revealed to be a traitor and ultimately claimed the substantial $220,800 prize for himself. Higgins’s raw and relatable reaction to this revelation, coupled with her distinctive Irish accent and consistently polished glam, propelled her into an overnight sensation across the United States.
For those who have followed Higgins’s career trajectory since her Love Island debut, her deep-seated passion for all things beauty is readily apparent. Prior to gracing television screens, Higgins honed her skills as a professional hairdresser for a decade in her hometown of Ballymahon, Ireland. She recently shared with Allure that this extensive background proved unexpectedly useful while she was in the Scottish Highlands, navigating the challenges of switching out wigs amidst the often damp and misty conditions. A consistent spray tan is virtually synonymous with her public image, and she remains steadfastly committed to her meticulously crafted, budge-proof makeup routine, whether she’s on-camera or enjoying downtime. "If I’m going for lunch with my girls, I do the exact same glam," she revealed, underscoring the uniformity of her approach. Her entrepreneurial ventures in the beauty space include the 2020 launch of her false lash line, aptly named "False Flutters," in collaboration with Primark. Furthermore, she has previously secured lucrative contracts with beauty powerhouses L’Oréal Paris and MAC Cosmetics, brands she continues to endorse and utilize regularly.
While Rob Rausch has since made amends for his betrayal by gifting Higgins a coveted Hermès Birkin bag, it appears that the substantial prize money from The Traitors was not a necessity for her continued success. Since the show’s conclusion, Higgins has been a prominent figure in various high-profile campaigns, including those for Victoria’s Secret and Uber. Her presence has also been felt at prestigious events such as Milan Fashion Week, where she attended and hosted red carpet coverage for A24. With another undisclosed project in the United States on the horizon, it is highly probable that additional beauty endorsements and collaborations are in the pipeline.
In an in-depth conversation with Allure, Higgins addressed a range of pressing questions, offering insights into her mastery of wig application and the secrets behind her consistently flawless makeup.
Evolution of a Beauty Routine: From Reality TV Sets to Everyday Life
Allure: Filming in vastly different environments, from the sun-drenched villa in Fiji to the historic castle in Scotland, presented unique challenges, especially since you were responsible for your own makeup on both shows. Looking back from then to now, what are the most significant changes you’ve observed in your beauty routine?
Maura Higgins: Honestly, I feel like a lot has evolved. I believe you develop a deeper understanding of your own face and what works best for you. In the past, my approach to makeup was much heavier, often to the point of being excessive. You reach a certain stage where you feel more confident in your own skin and gain clarity on what truly suits your features. I used to apply a significant amount of eyeshadow, but now I tend to opt for a more minimalist approach, perhaps just a touch of bronzer on my eyes. Reflecting on my earlier looks, I often think, "That was just too much."
Decoding the Traitors Glam: Daily Essentials and Signature Products
Allure: Could you break down your typical makeup routine during your time on The Traitors? Was it consistent each day, and what were some of the key products you relied on?
Maura Higgins: My foundation of choice throughout the filming of The Traitors was MAC Studio Fix Foundation, paired with Nars Concealer, which I absolutely love. I started using Nars because my makeup artist frequently used it on me. A constant in my routine was MAC Spice lip liner. Every single day, it was MAC Spice. I actually did a campaign with MAC last year, and they provided me with a substantial supply of Spice liners, which I estimate will last me for about a year.
For setting my makeup, I relied on the L’Oréal Infallible Setting Spray, a product that has proven to be an absolute lifesaver. Given the demanding nature of the missions and the unpredictable Scottish weather – often involving cold, rain, and general harsh conditions – ensuring my makeup’s longevity was paramount. This spray was instrumental in achieving that. In terms of blush, I was consistently using Patrick Ta blushes, which I am thoroughly obsessed with.
My mascara of choice was a gold-tubed L’Oréal product. While I’m not entirely certain if it’s waterproof, I’ve surprisingly never experienced issues with mascara running, even when using non-waterproof formulas. It’s a curious phenomenon, as mascara has never ended up streaked down my face.
The Enduring Allure of MAC Spice
Allure: When did MAC Spice lip liner become your definitive go-to product?
Maura Higgins: I’ve been using it for many years now; I honestly can’t recall what I used before it. I’m particularly drawn to its shade. My lips have a natural lack of pigment, which leads me to ponder if I should consider treatments like lip blush for a more permanent color. However, the thought of altering the way Spice looks on me gives me pause. I often observe how different it appears on my friends; when they try it, the color can vary significantly. My makeup artist frequently comments on my lip pigment, or rather, the lack thereof, suggesting that this characteristic allows different tones to appear distinct on my lips compared to others. She attributes this to my "very Irish" complexion.
Preparing for the Game: Solitude and Serenity
Allure: During filming, did you have opportunities to interact with other contestants while getting ready, or was this a solitary endeavor?
Maura Higgins: The preparation for glam was a solitary experience. I’m quite certain we had Spotify available on our televisions, as I recall listening to music while getting ready. While there were periods off-camera where conversations were permitted, these discussions were strictly prohibited from involving game strategy. We could discuss any other topic, and these moments allowed us to truly connect and get to know each other. However, for the makeup application itself, we were on our own.
The filming schedule was incredibly demanding, often leaving us with minimal sleep. There were nights where I might have only managed three hours of rest. Consequently, that preparation time was crucial for personal relaxation, enjoying a coffee, and applying makeup in a quiet environment, perhaps with some music, free from distractions. My preferred soundtrack for these moments was Ludovico Einaudi; his music has a profoundly calming effect on me.
On-Camera vs. Off-Camera: The Consistency of Glam
Allure: How does your on-camera makeup differ from your everyday makeup? Do you enhance your look for the cameras?
Maura Higgins: I generally avoid significantly altering my makeup for the cameras, as I recognize the potential for an undesirable outcome. The same level of effort and product application goes into my makeup whether I’m heading out for lunch with friends or appearing on television. I maintain a consistent glam. Perhaps for an evening event, I might experiment with a slightly more pronounced winged eyeliner, but that’s the extent of the deviation. While I don’t consider myself an expert at makeup application, many people compliment my ability to do my own glam. However, when a professional makeup artist works on me, I am consistently amazed by their skill. Their application results in makeup that is exceptionally long-lasting, so much so that I could theoretically sleep in it. Of course, I am very diligent about my skincare routine and would never actually do that, but the longevity is remarkable. When I apply my own makeup, I notice it doesn’t typically last as long, which is likely due to my application technique. My routine is quite repetitive, but I’ve found a system that works and suits my face. As the saying goes, "Don’t fix what isn’t broken."
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Mastering the Art: Insights from Industry Professionals
Allure: You’ve recently collaborated with Patrick Ta. Have you learned any new techniques from him or other makeup artists you’ve worked with?
Maura Higgins: I observed that Patrick Ta employs a contouring technique that precedes foundation application, a method I had never previously incorporated into my routine. I am keen to experiment with this approach to see how it impacts my overall look. It was a technique I hadn’t encountered before. These makeup artists possess such extraordinary talent that watching them can make a technique appear deceptively simple, yet it is considerably more challenging in practice. If I were to attempt what he does, I doubt I could achieve the same results.
Allure: You’ve humorously remarked that you were the best-smelling person in The Traitors castle. Could you share your preferred fragrances?
Maura Higgins: My two signature fragrances are Christian Dior Oud Ispahan and Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540. I never layer them; I choose one or the other depending on my mood for the day. These are my absolute staples, and I always ensure they are in my handbag.
The Ritual of the Tan: A Personal Necessity
Allure: Could you describe your weekly tanning routine? Have you perfected this process?
Maura Higgins: I have the typical fair Irish complexion. I consider myself quite knowledgeable about the intricacies of self-tanning; it’s an area where I feel very confident. It might sound extreme, but my work schedule is often arranged around my tanning appointments. My manager is fully aware of this necessity, and she now accommodates it without me needing to explicitly request it. She understands its importance to me. Having a tan makes me feel good; without it, I feel… I don’t know. I simply don’t feel as confident. When I’m tanned, I feel empowered and ready to face any challenge.
Allure: Do you have a professional spray tan, or do you self-tan?
Maura Higgins: I utilize both methods. I have a professional who comes to my home for appointments. If I have a significant event, such as flying for an important red carpet appearance, she will come to my residence, and she is exceptional. I’ve been using her services for approximately six years. For other occasions, such as general events or casual meetups with friends, I will apply an instant tan myself. However, more recently, I’ve been opting for spray tans more frequently, as I find it to be a considerably easier option.
A Dedicated Skincare Regimen: Balancing Efficacy and Sensitivity
Allure: Could you walk us through your skincare routine and highlight some of your favorite products?
Maura Higgins: Currently, my preferred cleanser is the Revive Foaming Cleanser. I also use the Rhode Glazing Milk Mist. For eye cream, I’m using La Mer. While La Mer products are undeniably expensive, they are remarkably effective. I do not use a toner, for reasons I can’t quite articulate; it’s simply not part of my routine. For moisturizer, I primarily use La Mer. However, when I’m aiming to conserve that product, I opt for Augustinus Bader. That brand name is quite challenging to pronounce, and I realize I’ve likely been mispronouncing it for some time. Their products are absolutely incredible. I alternate between Augustinus Bader and Tatcha moisturizers, particularly the one housed in the purple tub, which I find imparts a beautiful, radiant glow.
Allure: Have you always been invested in skincare? Did it take you a considerable amount of time to establish your current routine?
Maura Higgins: Skincare has always been an area of interest for me. I experienced a severe bout of perioral dermatitis, which I suspect was a consequence of over-treating my skin. While the exact causes are still debated among dermatologists, the theory suggests that excessive use of heavy products and frequent facials can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier.
Following that experience, I significantly reduced the number of products in my routine. I still encounter occasional breakouts; I had one just a week ago, which was quite frustrating. I believe stress can be a contributing factor. When I’m extremely busy and not getting enough sleep, I notice that various elements can trigger flare-ups. During these times, my most effective approach is to drastically simplify my skincare regimen, using only a cleanser and a moisturizer. This is the only approach that truly provides relief. I have completely discontinued the use of retinols since developing perioral dermatitis, as I find them too harsh for my skin.
Allure: When did you first begin experiencing perioral dermatitis?
Maura Higgins: It was approximately three years ago, and the condition was quite severe, affecting my eyelids and chin area. I had never encountered it before, so I conducted extensive research. I’ve since learned that a less-is-more approach is generally more beneficial. I no longer feel the need for weekly facials or regular retinol treatments. I’ve even significantly reduced my exfoliation frequency, as I find that over-exfoliating often leads to breakouts.
Beyond the Routine: Facials and Cosmetic Procedures
Allure: Given your revised approach to skincare, have you eliminated weekly facials? Are there any other beauty treatments you particularly enjoy?
Maura Higgins: When I am in Los Angeles, I do visit Kate Somerville for facials. I find their treatments to be gentle on the skin. They offer a bespoke facial designed to extract impurities and residual makeup while providing deep hydration. This is essentially the only facial treatment I undergo. It provides a refreshing and revitalizing experience, particularly beneficial before a long flight.
Allure: Do you undergo any other cosmetic procedures?
Maura Higgins: I do receive Botox treatments, but I do not use fillers. I frequently see videos on TikTok suggesting that I have had cheek fillers, and I’ve read this assertion numerous times. I have never, in my life, had cheek fillers. There have also been claims of an eyelift, though I am unfamiliar with the specifics of such a procedure. If these claims are referring to Botox, then yes, I do receive Botox injections. The only filler I have ever had was lip filler, and that was many years ago. I used to get it quite frequently, even before my time on Love Island, but I haven’t had it for a considerable period. I have never had any filler injected into my face, and the thought terrifies me. It seems people don’t grasp this. I would be completely transparent about any procedures I underwent. There are even articles that state, "Maura says she doesn’t have any procedures," almost implying I am being dishonest. I want to emphasize that I would be entirely truthful.
I have had dental work done. I underwent Invisalign treatment after leaving Love Island, followed by bonding on my teeth, which undeniably alters the appearance of one’s face. I have also lost weight since Love Island. Furthermore, understanding how to apply makeup to complement your facial structure can significantly change one’s appearance.
If I were to undergo any cosmetic surgery, I would be completely open about it. If a procedure would enhance my self-confidence, and it was something I desired, I would certainly pursue it. When the time comes for a facelift, I assure you, I will get one. My ideal surgeon would be someone akin to Kris Jenner’s aesthetician, as the results are truly remarkable.
Taming the Mane: Wigs and Haircare
Allure: Considering the humid Scottish environment, how did you manage your naturally curly hair during the filming of The Traitors?
Maura Higgins: The most effective strategy I employed was bringing several wigs with me. I can honestly say that without them, managing my hair would have been an insurmountable challenge. My hair is inherently difficult to manage due to its extreme curliness and numerous cowlicks at the front. Even a slight amount of mist would cause my hair to become unmanageable. My solution was to braid my hair, secure it with pins, and then wear a wig, often topped with my signature beret. This provided a complete and sorted look.
During the missions, I would remove my wig to protect it from the elements, then place a small beanie cap over my braids before venturing out into the rain and the notoriously harsh weather. Once the mission concluded, I would return, reapply my wig, and my hair was ready.
Allure: How many wigs did you bring with you?
Maura Higgins: I brought three wigs, which is the extent of my current collection. I am looking to acquire more, as I do enjoy wearing wigs and experimenting with different hairstyles. I appreciate changing my hair color, length, and style. While I may not be the most adept at perfectly placing them, they were an absolute lifesaver. I was quite content with them, and they saved a considerable amount of time.
Allure: You previously worked as a hairdresser. Was this a long-held aspiration from your youth?
Maura Higgins: As a young girl, it was indeed something I always wanted to pursue. I left school early and enrolled in hairdressing college, subsequently gaining employment in a salon where I worked my way up from the very beginning, starting with making teas and coffees and washing hair. I moved between several salons, obtained my full qualifications, and then established myself in my local town in the heart of Ireland. I cultivated a substantial clientele and practiced hairdressing for a decade. At a certain point, I felt a sense of stagnation, questioning what the next chapter would entail. I realized I was ready to move on from that career path. I knew I didn’t want to remain a hairdresser indefinitely.
Allure: Does your hairdressing training prove beneficial when styling your own hair?
Maura Higgins: If I dedicate sufficient effort, I am capable of styling my own hair effectively. I can create a sleek, tightly pulled bun. I can also blow-dry my own hair using a round brush and a hairdryer. I even manage my own root color. My gray hairs appear so rapidly that I require root touch-ups every two weeks. It’s quite inconvenient. If you were to see my gray hair, you’d likely be surprised by its prevalence. I have a significant amount of gray hair. I first noticed a patch of gray hair when I was just 17 years old.
Allure: Do you envision yourself ever allowing your natural gray hair to grow out?
Maura Higgins: No, I don’t believe I would. While I subscribe to the "never say never" philosophy, I cannot envision myself embracing my gray hair.
A Glimpse into the Future: An Upcoming US Project
Allure: Can you offer any hints about your upcoming projects?
Maura Higgins: If I were to provide a hint, I would inevitably reveal too much information, and you would know exactly what it is. I don’t see a way to offer a clue without giving away the entire surprise. However, I can confirm that it is a U.S. television show, and the details will be publicly disclosed very soon.