Best known for Ozark and The Gilded Age, Jessica Frances Dukes stepped into a series regular role opposite J.K. Simmons in The Westies last month, playing FBI Special Agent Birdie Polk in the Amazon/MGM+ period crime drama. Between the demands of intense shooting days and her theater background, she’s built a beauty routine as disciplined as her craft—and she’s sharing the details.
What drew you to Birdie Polk, and how did you find her voice?
“Birdie Polk is a powerful player in this game. When I read her I felt she was just as dangerous as Sweeney, The Westies or Gotti. She’s a leader, and a boss in her own right that has seen it all, and she’s on a mission.”
The Gilded Age has such a distinct beauty aesthetic for that era—what’s it like sitting through that hair and makeup process?
“Every character I play teaches me something new about myself. It’s the beauty of what we do as actors. Each person I play has their own ideas of what beauty is and that’s so much fun to explore.”
What does your actual self-care and beauty routine look like when you’re moving between a demanding shoot schedule and the physical, vocal demands of live theater?
“I believe in eating and drinking your skin care. My meal plan is extremely disciplined and it is absolutely a part of my beauty routine. Also, my gym time is a non-negotiable. My topical skin routine is a must, and rest, recovery and fun are all necessary for beauty inside and out.”
Do you have any go-to products or self-care rituals that help you recover after a heavy shoot day or performance?
“I have a skin cocktail of multiple brands that make up my daily and evening routine. My number-one for the last 15 years is a double cleanse with Aveda gentle daily wash ($43) to take off my makeup and then to cleanse my face, and I top it post rinse with a Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber Mask ($55) all over my face to cool and heal after repeated makeup application and removal. There is a 15–20 minute routine after that, but I’ll save those secrets for next time!”
Is there a beauty philosophy or approach you’ve picked up over your career that’s become essential for you now?
“My peace with me is the most important piece of makeup. At the end of the day, when I can say, I was consistent with my meal plan, I trained hard, I worked on my art, I ran my business, I enjoyed my day, and I inspired people along the way. That makes me proud of me…and that’s the best glow you can ever put on.”
