The American Idol winner turned mega star is no stranger to the spotlight, with a roster of magazine covers, multi-platinum songs, and multiple Grammy Awards under her belt. She'll be dazzling the small screen once again when she hosts the Country Music Awards on ABC alongside Brad Paisley on November 9. But before she goes into red carpet mode (and launches yet another Olay campaign—this one about debunking beauty myths), this busy beauty answered some of our burning questions about hair, skin, and, what else?!, newlywed grooming habits.

Real Beauty: How has your beauty routine changed now that you’re hitched?

Carrie Underwood: I would say, if anything, my beauty routine is a bit simpler. With someone else in my life, I had to trim down the excess. I do share products (Olay Complete All Day UV Moisturizer SPF 15!) and tips with Mike [Fisher]. Even though he is a big tough athlete, he still wants to look and feel good about himself! I appreciate that about him!

RB: What are the best hair and makeup tips you’ve learned since your days on American Idol?

CU: I was fortunate enough to learn from the masters of hair and makeup. I have done so many events, magazine shoots, and whatnot, that I certainly try to pay attention to the things that the hair and make-up artists do to make me look good. I used to wear a ton of makeup—especially eyeliner—before Idol. I learned that might not be the best thing for me. Also, hairspray was not my friend way back when (although my twenty-year-old self might disagree). My friends and I also swap secrets. I love to see what other people use. It gives me ideas.

RB: Who is your beauty icon and why?

CU: I love people who keep it natural. I've said it time and time again that Reese Witherspoon is a favorite of mine! She always looks great whether she's on a red carpet or going for a jog in LA.

RB: What are your best-kept beauty secrets?

CU: Water is an amazing skin saver—drink lots of it! I can always tell when I haven't been drinking enough, because my skin just doesn't glow at all.

RB: What Hollywood or runway beauty trend are you dying to try?

CU: I would love to be able to wear more color, like bold eye shadows or bright eyeliner. Even bold lips seem to look good on everyone else. I need to play around with those things a little more!

RB: What does the idea of “real beauty” mean to you?

CU: "Real beauty" is a feeling. It's confidence! It's leaving the house and feeling completely ready for whatever lies ahead. If you feel good about yourself, the world will see it!

More on Carrie Underwood:

The Country Singer Takes on the Role of Olay's Brand Ambassador

Carrie Underwood's Best Hairstyles Ever

Discover What Carrie Underwood's Beauty Must-Have Is

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