Beauty At Every Age: Q&A with Carolyn Pierotti
Carolyn Pierotti is the epitome of today’s modern lady. She balances work and family as a devoted wife and mother, talented artist and working woman. She’s also a free spirit, classic cool-girl, and beautiful on the inside and out. We first met Carolyn in a crowded room at a popular event. It wasn’t her tall stature that made her stand out, but her youthful, joyous presence. So what is her secret? We just had to know, because after all 40 is the new 20 and Carolyn is killing it.
Maniac Magazine: What does your beauty routine consist of?
Carolyn Pierotti: Every day I’m up and moving at 5:30 am. I start off with a huge glass of water, it’s so important to hydrate, I really think this is the number one key to healthy skin. My face regimen is really simple- Aveeno soap and water. I have really sensitive skin and I’ve found this to be the best. Right now I’m really hooked on a couple of things as far as the cream I use on my face. Daytime I use Aveda tourmaline charged hydrating cream, and before I go to bed I use Nerium AD age defying treatment. I use Almay products when it comes to make up, again since my skin is so sensitive. I try to keep it simple! I’ve found now that I’m getting older, the less I use, the better I look. I go to the gym four times per week. It keeps me strong, and feeling good…..I have an eight year old to keep up with! I also stay away from injecting my face, I’m terrified of the idea. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve thought about it, but it’s really not the message I want to send to my girls. I’m okay with growing old gracefully….like a fine wine!
MM: What’s your number one beauty tip?
CP: I am absolutely insane about keeping my skin moisturized! I’ve done a lot of tanning, and I worship the sun. While spray tanning is really popular, I would just rather be outside.
MM: What is the one product you could not live without?
CP: You know, I would love to say that I use really expensive creams and potions, but I don’t. I should buy stock in Nivea, the stuff in the blue jar! I use it every day after I shower.
MM: How would you describe your personal style?
CP: I’m really a good mix of modern BCBGMaxazria and whimsical Free People! I’m a contradiction in terms really… When I am doing things for the Pittsburgh Society of Artists, or going to a meeting I adore sharp, crisp lines. When I’m out doing more casual things with my kids I love throwing on oversized tops and skinny jeans. My moccasins! I couldn’t live without them. They are definitely my “go to”.
MM: How do you stay young at heart:
CP: My kids. I adore them and they are the reason I breathe. My daughter Catherine is 19, so she keeps me up on all the new music and trends. My middle daughter Isabella is my rock star! She is 12 and has moxy and confidence that I wish I had at that age. Last, but not least, my 8 year old son Lucien. He is the one that keeps me moving. We roller skate, climb the rock wall at REI, and hike. When I’m with them, I feel like I’m 18 all over again. At least in my head I do… ask me how I feel the next day after climbing the rock wall!
MM: What makes you most happy?
CP: Working in the studio. I have been very busy lately with the Pittsburgh Society of Artists, running a practice, raising my kids, and mentoring at Carlow. When I am at the studio, this is my time. I could lose myself for hours. I have my ripped jeans on, headphones in listening to Depeche Mode and I just paint. I paint because of the absolute joy that it brings me. This is when I feel complete, there is nothing quite like it. There is a satisfaction that runs through you when you complete a painting or any piece of art for that matter. It’s a personal thing and it nourishes my soul.
MM: So how do you balance being a mom of three, an artist, Exhibitions Chair, mentor at Carlow University, and Vice President of a 1000+ patient practice (Anti-Aging & Longevity Center) ?
CP: I’m crazy!!! It’s not easy, but there is something to be said for time management. I finished my degree in 2014 and was a full time student. If you manage your time efficiently, you can get it done. It takes determination and grit. I also make time for myself, that is key. Without it, I’d go mad!
MM: If you could go back, what would tell your 20-year-old self about beauty? About confidence?
CP: I was so incredibly insecure when I was young. I was the wallflower, tall and skinny. I think I would tell myself the same thing that I tell my girls. Embrace your body, embrace who you are and what you love. I hope that when I’m gone, that will be the one lesson that they remember. Love yourself and everything else will fall into place.
MM: Where do you see yourself in five years?
CP: I currently live in the North Side and I would like to share my love of the arts with the community there. My dream is to have an art space where artists can exhibit, do workshops and share their knowledge with the community. Where kids can come in and hang out, draw, paint and have access to materials. I want it to be a place where the arts are accessible and not intimidating. I think that’s where I want to be in five years, sitting in my gallery having coffee and talking with the folks passing by about how good it feels to be finally living my dream.
