MARTHA KALIFATIDIS
The reality star-turned-‘skinfluencer’ shares her beauty secrets and tricks!
What excites you about the beauty industry? The most exciting thing for me is accessibility. So many treatments and products that were once reserved only for the rich and famous are now available to us.
Why do you think it’s so important to have “real” beauty ambassadors now?
Well, that depends on how you define “real”. I’ve been publicly criticised for having had plastic surgery and being so open about it. The way I define real is the ability to be transparent and authentic. I don’t think I’m less “real” because I have fake breasts! Beauty influencers who show their good and bad days, not just the Instagram-worthy moments, are real to me. Everyone is over seeing these perfectly curated, beige feeds, perfect bodies and skin that is blemish and dimple free. We want to see ambassadors that look like us, our friends and our peers.
What are your best skincare tips?
Sunscreen is the holy grail, but before that a serum is essential. They’re designed to deliver high concentrations of active ingredients to the skin, so it’s important to choose one that is specific to your skin concerns. Olay’s new Super Serum range quite literally has something for everyone. I love the one with 99 per cent pure niacinamide, but the hyaluronic acid one is so good, too!
When it comes to your own makeup, what do you enjoy doing the most?
I love to create the perfect base, starting with skincare. After that, I’m obsessed with blending and concocting foundation, concealer, liquid bronzers and blushes to create the perfect look. The Trinny London Concealer and the “OG” M.A.C Face and Body Foundation are my current favourites. You’re a makeup artist by trade.
What are some of the best tips you’ve learned from other beauty pros?
Rae Morris taught me this amazing trick when doing a lip – narrowing the mouth or bringing in the corners creates such a youthful effect.
You’re juggling so much at the moment. How do you stay on top of everything?
My work-life balance isn’t the healthiest right now, but funnily enough I thrive living like this.