Crispy Q&A with Olivia Hancock

N: A lot of little girls dabble in beauty growing up. Can you recall any particular moment that led to you becoming a beauty editor?

H: I always knew I’d be a writer, but I never knew how my career would take shape. I always enjoyed reading beauty magazines and experimenting with products, but becoming a beauty editor wasn’t something I envisioned in high school or even my first year of college. In trying to figure out my place in media, I wrote about various topics (ranging from fitness to fashion) to see what I was most passionate about. However, once I landed my internship at Byrdie, I knew I was meant to be a beauty journalist. You can tell so many powerful stories through beauty, and getting to do this every day sparks so much joy for me. And for me, following joy in my personal and professional life is what I strive to do.

N: Your journey at Byrdie began as an intern and has since seen significant growth. Can you elaborate more on your journey?

H: I started my journey at Byrdie as an intern in 2019. After that, I continued to write for the brand as a freelance writer and later returned the following summer for a second internship. Once that concluded, I joined the team as a freelance news writer until I graduated from Georgia State University in December 2020 and accepted a full-time offer as an associate editor. A year later, I was promoted to editor. I’m very proud to have accomplished my goal of becoming an editor at 21, but I always remind myself that realizing this dream took years of hard work and consistency. I landed my first editorial internship at 14 with an organization called Pretty Girls Sweat (formerly Teen Diaries), and from then on, I continued to find ways to sharpen my writing, editing, and interviewing skills in an effort to get to where I am today.

N: Through your role, what changes or improvements do you hope to bring to the beauty industry?

H: I’m proud to take up space in the beauty industry because it allows me to celebrate and amplify the stories of so many incredible Black and Brown founders, influencers, and celebrities. Since I was an intern, I’ve focused on highlighting Black-owned products, looking at beauty news through a cultural context, and spotlighting incredible Black people in beauty. Doing this work will always be my central focus, and in doing so, I hope I’m helping people of color feel more seen in the beauty industry.

It’s also important to note that part of my motivation stems from the fact that there are so many Black women who came before me in this industry and opened the door for me to be here. Because of this, I feel it’s my responsibility to continue in their trailblazing footsteps and show young writers of color they can make their dreams come true in media and use their platform to make a difference.

N: You’ve met so many incredible individuals throughout your time as a beauty editor; no need to pick favorites ;), but what valuable life lessons have you gleaned from these encounters that have had a lasting impact on you?

H: The most valuable lesson I’ve learned from these encounters is to be intentional about not letting my work consume or define me. It’s easy to let professional accomplishments completely influence how we view ourselves and shape our sense of worth. However, I’m constantly reminded how important it is to recognize that my work isn’t all I am and that I shouldn’t base my value on how well I’m doing in my field. Of course, I’m incredibly proud of all I’ve done, but how I’m evolving as a person and contributing positively to other people’s lives is what matters most.

N: What beauty products do you always have with you and consider essential in your daily routine?

H: I always keep Ami Colé’s Lip Treatment Oil, Dior Le Baume, Ellis Brooklyn’s Vanilla Milk Eau de Parfum, and a Bread Beauty Supply Scrunchie in my bag.

N: Award-winning products don't always suit everyone. What guidance would you offer to individuals experimenting with different products, emphasizing the importance of understanding their skin's unique needs?

H: As a beauty editor, I am grateful that part of my job is to test the latest and greatest products. However, I’ve learned to gradually introduce things into my routine to avoid adverse skin reactions. I’d always recommend patch testing, researching if new products are compatible with your existing routine, and experimenting with only one or two new products at a time. And when in doubt, always consult a dermatologist for their expert advice on what your skin needs.

N: Are there any exciting new ventures or projects on your horizon?

H: This year, I set a goal to write one cover story, and thankfully, I was able to write two. I interviewed the brilliant multihyphenate Yara Shahidi for Byrdie’s March digital issue. And this month, my second cover story with the wonderful actress and entrepreneur Shay Mitchell debuted. So, right now, I’m basking in these 2023 accomplishments and reflecting on the year. However, I hope to bring my podcast, The Hue Report, back next year.

N: Lastly, and most importantly, how do you like to enjoy your chicken nuggets?

H: With honey mustard, a side of French fries, and a fruit punch with light ice!