'Stranger Things' Cara Buono on Her '80s Beauty Secrets

Cara Buono's Hair Transformation in Stranger Things

Cara Buono shared how her character Karen Wheeler's hair evolved throughout "Stranger Things." Initially, Karen's look reflected a '70s Midwest style with a muted mousey-brown color and a subtle wing flip hairstyle, as global trends were less accessible back then. As the show progressed, the hair became bigger, blonder, permed, and more vibrant — embodying the bold spirit of the '80s. Buono appreciated these changes as a way to visually express Karen's character growth without needing extensive scenes to communicate it.

Skincare Routine Rooted in the '80s

Buono has been passionate about skincare since age 14, influenced by her mother's beautiful skin and her father's serious approach to sunscreen during the 1980s. She emphasizes gentle care, recalling her mother's advice to "pat, don’t rub" the skin. Her current routine includes products like Ginza Deep Cleansing Oil and Tatcha Deep Rice Polish for exfoliation, alongside vitamin C serums such as SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic and the affordable Timeless vitamin C. She also uses the 111 NAC Repair Serum and highly values Weleda Skin Food for hydration, noting the brand’s commitment to quality ingredients grown in Germany. Buono frequents a spa in Los Angeles called Carasoin for facial treatments featuring their cold-fusion cream. For mature skin care, she applies Tretinoin five days a week, recommending the Alloy M4 cream as especially effective for those over 40.

The Value of Quality Serums

According to Buono, investing in high-quality serums like SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic is worthwhile despite the higher price. She describes it as a defense screen applied under moisturizer that visibly improves skin condition—a testament to its effectiveness.

“It’s really good because I know it’s on the pricier side. It’s one of those things that I feel is really worth it for the investment because you put it under your moisturizer. It’s like a defense screen. Yes, you notice the difference. You know that it’s working.”

Summary

Cara Buono’s '80s beauty secrets blend nostalgic hair evolution with a lifelong dedication to skincare rooted in her family's early habits, highlighting enduring and practical products for healthy, vibrant skin and styling.

more

NewBeauty NewBeauty — 2025-11-27

More News