"Without Stigma or Shame": F1 Driver Carlos Sainz Discusses Skincare, Essential Grooming for Time Off, and Preparation for Race Day

      (Image credit: @tiziano.raw; Courtesy of L'Oréal Paris) Sports enthusiasts are already familiar with Carlos Sainz, the Spanish Formula One (F1) driver who holds a multiyear contract with the Atlassian Williams F1 Team. He has established a significant presence on and off the track, balancing a rigorous training regimen, participating in major grands prix, featuring in Netflix's hit docuseries Drive to Survive, and becoming the star of multiple viral videos showcasing his well-known "Smooth Operator" moments. If you know, you know.

      To add to his accomplishments, Sainz is also a global brand ambassador for L'Oréal, primarily promoting the Elvive haircare line and the Men Expert skincare products. WWW had the rare chance to speak with Sainz from the South of France, where he was representing the brand at the 79th annual Cannes Film Festival. Below, read our exclusive interview where Sainz shares insights about his grooming essentials when off-duty, preparing both physically and mentally for the demands of race day, and dispelling outdated perceptions surrounding men's skincare and haircare.

      (Image credit: @tiziano.raw; Courtesy of L'Oréal Paris) Sainz joins via video call from Cannes, just before attending the renowned film festival and stepping onto the red carpet amidst countless flashing cameras. "It's my second time here," he shares. "I experienced it for the first time last year and met many other L'Oréal Paris ambassadors. It was amazing. Now, in my second year, I believe it's becoming a tradition." I mention that he might start getting used to the red carpet, and he chuckles. "I don't think I’ll ever be accustomed to red carpets. It's not really my area of expertise, but gradually, I'm feeling more at ease with them," he explains.

      One thing is for sure: he’s already well-versed in discussing his skincare routine, given his role as a L'Oréal brand ambassador. His go-to product is a vitamin C serum, which helps combat fatigue from his F1 commitments or post-travel exhaustion. "Ultimately, you need something to keep you feeling fresh," he states.

      During his rare free time, he indulges in three sports: golf, cycling, and padel (a racket sport that blends tennis and squash). "It's always a mix of either golf and padel or cycling with either golf or padel," he clarifies. "When it’s warm and I’m exposed to a lot of UV rays, I definitely apply SPF 50 for protection." For more formal settings, he relies on his favorite vitamin C serum along with another grooming must-have: L'Oréal Men Expert Barber Club Beard & Skin Oil ($19). "I believe it adds an extra level of care… a better feel," he explains. "Depending on where I'm headed or what I’m doing, I use various other products, but I’d say [the vitamin C and SPF 50] are my two primary daily essentials. There are others I reach for in specific situations."

      (Image credit: @tiziano.raw; Courtesy of L'Oréal Paris) He is equally candid about his haircare regimen. He uses L'Oréal Elvive Growth Booster, which is currently exclusive to the European market. Fortunately, there's an equally effective U.S. alternative—the Hyaluron Pure Oil Erasing Scalp Serum ($12). "That product ultimately protects my hair and keeps it strong through all the hours spent sweating under a helmet or cap," he explains. "Since I travel to places with varying environments and humidity levels, I feel like I’m safeguarding my hair when I use it in the morning and even in the evening after returning from the track."

      Sainz acknowledges that L'Oréal has educated him on the importance of skincare and haircare in self-care. "It’s something I didn’t prioritize a few years back, but L'Oréal has made me realize its significance. I’m now recognizing the difference it makes and how investing some extra time in hair and skincare can yield visible results. I can personally feel the benefits," he shares.

      I can’t help but wonder if he has shared any grooming tips or product suggestions with friends. He finds this topic relevant. "It’s quite amusing because I suddenly notice who else is using these products after I start," he says. "Sometimes, I show up at dinners, and I realize my friends are looking a little more moisturized or fresher. I observe them and say, ‘You’re taking care of yourself. You’re using products.’ They often confess it."

      Sainz believes this reflects changing cultural attitudes. "The stereotype of men caring for their own skin is starting to diminish. I talk about it openly. I feel no shame in admitting that I have skincare and haircare routines just like I have preparation routines for my sport. It elevates your mood."

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