Hoda Kotb Stopped Wearing Makeup After Leaving ‘Today’

Few celebrity retirements were as emotional and widespread as that of iconic on-air host, Hoda Kotb, leaving the Today show. For almost two decades, millions nationwide tuned in to hear Kotb’s morning reports and pop culture takes, taking comfort in her on-air persona and, of course, her signature look. Leaning into retirement, Kotb has a new perspective on beauty, though, revealing to PEOPLE that she’s barely touched makeup since leaving the show.

Why Hoda Kotb Stopped Wearing Makeup Post Today

Embracing her new journey wholeheartedly, Hoda Kotba is moving to her full-time, stripped-back mom era with open arms. “I have worn makeup probably three times since I’ve left the Today show and I’ve been gone for almost two months,” the former host told the outlet. Now, instead of waking up before the sun rises and putting on full glam, Kotb has a much more laid-back morning routine—one that centers around practical fashion and getting the kiddos to school on time. “Sometimes I go with jeans if I’m going crazy, but for the walk to school, usually it’s leggings because I either have just worked out or I’m going to. Sneaks, hat, of course and face cream,” she told PEOPLE, noting that she can’t get enough of this new routine. “I’m with 10 kids walking to school together and a couple of moms. I go, ‘This is awesome. Look at me with my sweats on and my coffee. I’m into it.’”

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Why has the television legend strayed away from makeup since leaving the show, though? The answer is actually pretty simple. “You know what I realized? I don’t look at myself anymore,” Kotb says. “You look at yourself at work because there’s a big mirror and camera and you’re like, ‘Oh, my hair’s a mess, so you’re constantly fussing. But I don’t notice anymore. My kids are like, ‘Mom, you look crazy right now.’ But you know what? I’m happy.”