With five decades of acting experience under her belt, Sarah Jessica Parker is one of Hollywood’s golden girls. Best known for her role as Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City and, most recently, And Just Like That…, SJP has had her fair share of iconic fashion and beauty moments. It is this industry longevity that caught the attention of skincare brand RoC. 

Joining forces for The RoC Look Forward Project, the partnership focuses on changing society’s negative outlook on ageing and the benefits of optimism (one of Parker’s many innate qualities). 

Here, Gritty Pretty sits down for five minutes with the Golden Globe-winning actor to talk ageing, optimism and, of course, skincare. 

Hi, Sarah! Congratulations on the launch of The RoC Look Forward Project! You’re such an iconic figure in the fashion and beauty industry and have worked on some amazing projects in the past. What drew you to this campaign specifically?

When RoC approached me about joining them [for the project], the goals of this campaign excited me. They were not just refreshing, but they sounded like me. The idea of focusing on the ‘joy of living’ versus ‘fear of ageing’ was especially aligned with the values I find important. 

This campaign highlights the benefits of optimism. Why do you think being optimistic is important?

Personally, I like being hopeful because I find it makes things bearable when they are at their worst. Optimism is almost like a vitamin, or some type of battery, or something I use when I need to resurface. 

And how do you remain positive during hard times?

I’m fortunate that I am naturally optimistic and that I am able to choose to confront each day with that mindset. But that doesn’t mean I deny things that are personally painful or hard for others. When things are difficult or complicated, it gives me the resilience I need. And in the good times, it pushes me to truly enjoy the time I get to spend just living.

We know you’re passionate about changing society’s misogynistic ageing standards. Considering this project focuses on embracing the ageing process, how are your values reflected?

Society puts a huge emphasis on youth when it comes to beauty standards, but it’s not productive. There should be no apologies. I am not trying to cover anything up with my approach to skincare, fashion, or beauty. When I use a product, I’m not looking to hide anything or go back in time, it’s just helping me feel closer to the version of myself I want to feel when I walk out of a door. 

Speaking of products, as a new ambassador for RoC, can you share some of your favourites from their line?

I love the Hydrate & Plump Trio—the moisturiser with SPF30 is an everyday staple for me, and I love using the capsules at night. In my night-time routine, I also like to use the Max Hydration Cream.