Who is the woman in the Maybelline New York commercial?
Exploring the star power behind Maybelline’s most talked-about campaign
(By Carmichael Phillip)
When beauty meets comedy: the new Maybelline twist
Maybelline has long been known for glam, boldness, and global faces. But with a surprising comedic spin in their recent campaign, fans and viewers found themselves asking: Who’s the woman bringing all that charm and wit to my screen?
The answer: Cecily Strong, the Emmy-nominated actress and comedian from Saturday Night Live, is the leading lady in Maybelline’s campaign that promotes beauty with a healthy dose of personality.
Cecily Strong: the face of confidence and comedy
Cecily Strong is no stranger to television. For nearly a decade, she was a powerhouse performer on SNL, famous for characters like “The Girl You Wish You Hadn’t Started a Conversation with at a Party,” and a frequent co-anchor on “Weekend Update.”
But in the Maybelline commercial, she trades satire for sincerity—still retaining her playful confidence.
“I love being part of something that makes people feel good about themselves. And it’s Maybelline! I mean, who hasn’t said ‘Maybe she’s born with it’ at some point?”
— Cecily Strong in a behind-the-scenes interview
What commercial is this exactly?
The ad that’s drawing attention is part of the Maybelline Superstay Vinyl Ink campaign, which emphasizes long-lasting lip color that stays put no matter what. Strong is seen trying on shades while poking fun at over-the-top influencer tropes.
It’s a humorous take on beauty tutorials, where real women can both look great and laugh a little.
You can view the commercial here:
📺 Watch the Maybelline Vinyl Ink commercial (featuring Cecily Strong) (link for illustrative purposes only—use official Maybelline channel if reposting)
Is Vanessa Bayer in it too?
Yes! Vanessa Bayer, another SNL alum, joins Cecily in some Maybelline social media spots and YouTube sketches tied to the campaign.
The duo’s banter is natural and funny, bringing a refreshing twist to typical beauty branding.
“We wanted to do something that felt real but also ridiculous—because being a woman means switching moods, products, and lipstick shades 10 times a day.”
— Vanessa Bayer on her Instagram
Why Maybelline chose Cecily Strong
Maybelline is known for selecting celebrities who embody strength, empowerment, and individuality—and Cecily Strong fits that bill perfectly.
She’s confident, bold, and proud of being herself on screen.
She appeals to a cross-generational audience, especially millennials and Gen Xers who grew up watching her.
She challenges beauty norms by mixing makeup with humor and personality.
From stage to skincare: Cecily’s real-life beauty philosophy
Off-camera, Strong is known for her advocacy around mental health and body positivity.
In an interview with Parade, she noted:
“There were times I didn’t feel pretty in front of the camera, and then I realized—it wasn’t about looking a certain way, it was about feeling good inside.”
— Cecily Strong
This philosophy aligns with Maybelline’s evolving brand messaging: it’s not just about how you look, but how you own your look.
What product is she promoting?
The Maybelline commercial featuring Cecily Strong spotlights the Superstay Vinyl Ink Lipstick, which:
Comes in over a dozen bold colors
Is smudge-resistant and lasts up to 16 hours
Features a shiny, vinyl-like finish
Stays put through coffee, kisses, and punchlines
It’s marketed to people who need performance and style—perfectly represented by Strong’s on-the-go, unapologetic persona.
Social media response: “We want more Cecily!”
Across TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, fans have praised the ad for its refreshing tone.
“Can all beauty ads be like this from now on? Real women. Real laughs.”
— Instagram comment on @Maybelline
“Cecily is hilarious AND gorgeous. Total win.”
— TikTok user @LipstickFan123
The ad also trended briefly under hashtags like #VinylInk and #MaybellineMood.
Maybelline’s campaign strategy: why humor works
With beauty ads often focusing on glamor and aspiration, Maybelline’s pivot to wit is both bold and brilliant.
Here’s why it works:
It humanizes the product. You don’t need to be a model to wear Maybelline—you can be funny, real, and a little messy.
It increases shareability. Funny ads are more likely to go viral or get reposted.
It attracts talent. Celebrities like Strong and Bayer are more likely to join when the content has substance.
Cecily’s legacy and what’s next for her
Though she left Saturday Night Live in 2022, Cecily Strong remains in demand:
Starred in Apple TV’s musical comedy series Schmigadoon!
Published a bestselling memoir This Will All Be Over Soon
Regularly performs in theater, including Shakespeare in the Park
And with beauty campaigns like this one, she’s continuing to expand her brand into new and empowering arenas.
Final thoughts: the right woman at the right time
So who’s the woman in the Maybelline New York commercial?
She’s not just a model. She’s not just a comedian. She’s a multi-hyphenate powerhouse. She’s Cecily Strong, and her blend of honesty, hilarity, and high-style makes her one of the most inspired faces to front a beauty campaign in years.
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