Cathy Skinner from Below Deck Shares Her Favorite Beauty Tips and Cosmetic Treatments
Unexpected Moments on ‘Below Deck Mediterranean’ Spark Conversations about Beauty Standards
The tenth season of Below Deck Mediterranean delivered a series of unexpected twists, with one standout moment featuring French deckhand Max Salvador and British stewardess Cathy Skinner. During an exchange about her appearance, Salvador remarked that he preferred Skinner "natural," without makeup. Skinner’s quick-witted response highlighted her awareness of societal beauty standards: “Natural? Except for my boobs, my nose and my hair,” to which Salvador cheekily retorted, “Oh, so you are made in China?”
Skinner, who has emerged as a refreshing voice on the show, shared her perspective during a recent stop in New York for an appearance on Watch What Happens Live. “I definitely have always been comfortable talking about it. I don’t really care if people judge me as long as I’m being myself. I think it’s very important to be transparent,” she said. Skinner emphasized the intense social pressures stemming from social media, urging others to recognize that many people alter their appearances through procedures or filters.
“The cycle of wanting to look like someone else is exhausting,” she added. “These things are expensive, and money plays a significant role in beauty.” Despite her privilege, Skinner believes that comfort in one’s own skin takes many forms. “If you’re not affecting my life, I don’t care what you look like. If you’re nice to me, I’m nice to you.”
Reflecting on her own enhancements, she shared, “Honestly, I don’t know if this is the same, but getting my teeth done has been a significant confidence booster for me.” She recounted how, despite having braces previously, the investment in teeth straightening transformed her interactions, making her more open and engaged in conversations.
Skinner also touched on her beauty routine, revealing her reliance on available yacht supplies. She currently uses La Roche-Posay sunscreen, a brand favored in Europe and popular on boats. In addition to sunscreen, she mentioned her love for Dermalogica Microexfoliant and Dior Lip Glow Oil, which she keeps in her beauty arsenal.
In discussing her friendships and the impact of reality television, Skinner expressed gratitude for her supportive fanbase. “I’ve always been such a social media person… The attention I’m getting is good, so I cannot complain,” she said, noting that feedback has largely been positive. However, she acknowledged the challenges faced by other cast members who may not have experienced the same level of support.
Skinner also spoke candidly about the mental toll of potential criticism. “I thought I was going to be worse. I was definitely dreading it, but it was all in my head,” she reflected. “People haven’t been messaging me things like, ‘You’re a bad daughter; you didn’t go home.’”
When it comes to setting personal goals, Skinner identifies as a flexible individual. “I don’t think I’ve ever set one because I never put pressure on myself. I love saying ‘yes’ to new opportunities,” she explained. Her focus is on realistic aspirations that allow for personal growth without self-imposed stress, including the goal to read her first book.
As Below Deck Mediterranean continues to showcase the lives of its crew, moments like Salvador and Skinner’s exchange not only entertain but also ignite critical discussions about beauty, self-acceptance, and the power of personal narratives in the age of social media.
