Taylor Polidore Williams Shares Her Skin-Care Routine for Refreshing Her Look After Intense Roles
Taylor Polidore Williams Reflects on Acting Journey as "Beauty in Black" Returns
March 19 marks the return of Netflix’s acclaimed series Beauty in Black, a moment actress Taylor Polidore Williams eagerly anticipates. Best recognized for her compelling portrayal of Kimmie, Williams spoke about the enthusiastic fan response, her self-care practices post-filming, and her commitment to giving back to her alma mater, Clark Atlanta University.
“This is the second part of season two, and the cliffhanger from part one has fans buzzing,” Williams remarked. “It feels incredible. I’ve honestly forgotten some of what happens next, so I’m just as curious as the audience to see how the story unfolds. I can’t wait to watch it and see people’s reactions; that’s my favorite part.”
Expressing her gratitude, Williams reflected on her career and the unpredictable nature of audience reception. “It’s overwhelming gratitude. I’ve been acting for a while, but you never really know how a project will be received. That’s beyond my control, and I focus on the role itself. It’s a treat to be involved in something that resonates with people, especially when there’s so much content available today. Knowing that our show has dedicated supporters makes me genuinely happy.”
Music plays a pivotal role in her preparation for performances. “I create playlists for every character I play—Kimmie has her own that helps me immerse into her world. I also have personal playlists for different moods, like a dopamine booster and even a bedtime playlist. Transitioning out of costume, I use my personal music to help return to myself,” she stated.
Addressing the challenges of portraying intense material, Williams emphasized the importance of separating her professional life from her personal life. “I can’t take that energy home to my husband and my goldendoodle—they want to play. I have to step back into my own world,” she said.
She shared insights into her beauty routine, noting how it contributes to her resetting process after a long day on set. “I usually start with makeup wipes, specifically the Neutrogena ones the makeup artists have. At home, I create a spa-like atmosphere—steaming up the shower and then double cleansing my face. There’s something cathartic about removing my makeup that feels like a deep breath. This ritual helps me leave my work behind.”
The actress also mentioned her skincare essentials, stating, “One product I’ve relied on for a while is the La Roche-Posay Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil. After long filming hours, my skin often needs something effective. For nighttime, I use CeraVe Hydrating Toner and their moisturizer, along with a Clarins under-eye firming product.”
Williams’ commitment to her community is evident in her efforts to give back to Clark Atlanta University. “Being at Clark really shaped my perspective on community and Black excellence,” she remarked. “I initiated a project during a brand partnership with Savage X Fenty, bringing an installation to freshmen move-in day. We gifted students with workout sets and welcomed them with snow cones. It turned into a meaningful event.”
Reflecting on her college experience, Williams said, “Seeing accomplished alumni return was inspiring. It reminded me that someone who once sat in the same classrooms could achieve great things. I wanted to create that same sense of hope for current students.”
With her career on the rise and an unwavering dedication to her roots, Taylor Polidore Williams stands as a testament to resilience and community spirit.
Photo by Alex D. Rogers
