‘I USED TO HAVE AN ORANGE FACE AND A WHITE NECK’

LOVE ISLAND’S MAURA HIGGINS REVEALS HER BEAUTY SECRETS AND THE FUSSINESS BEHIND HER CHOICE OF PRODUCTS

From the moment she sashayed into Casa Amor, Maura Higgins became one of our Love Island faves. We were won over by her sunny personality, coveted her feline glam, and were rooting for her and Curtis Pritchard.

She and Curtis have since parted, and Maura is remaining quiet over rumours that she’s coupled up with Chris Taylor. However, we can tell you she’s certainly got the perfect date-night look all ready to go, whoever it might be intended for.

The Irish beauty has just unveiled her first make-up range, created with ultra-glam cosmetics brand Inglot.

We caught up with her for an exclusive chat and she spilled all her secrets – from what makes her feel sexy to the cosmetic treatment she was denied...

Congratulations on the new make-up range, Maura!

It’s a dream come true. It’s taken me so long because I’m so fussy. I had hundreds of samples and I was like, “How am I going to do this? It’s so hard!” But I can look at my range now and be proud.

What are your favourite products?

One has to be the All The Drama Liquid Eyeliner. People message me saying, “How do you do your winged liner?” and this product’s brush makes it much easier. Every girl will be able to use this and create an amazing cat’s eye.

What else would you use for a date?

The Glam & Glow Sparkling Dust. I love a glowy face and body. And the All The Drama Mascara. It opens up my eyes and makes my lashes look much longer.

What do you use to cleanse your face?

For years I used face wipes, but when we went into lockdown I decided I was going to start taking care of my skin because I’m turning 30 this year. Since then, I’ve noticed a massive difference to my skin – it’s so much clearer.

So what’s the new regime?

I use Obagi Nu-derm Gentle Cleanser, £53.96, Pixi Exfoliating Glow Tonic, £18, then Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream, £26. It’s so light but really moisturising.

Are you tempted by treatments?

About two years ago I enquired about Botox, and the guy at the clinic told me I didn’t need it. I don’t think I’ll get it – not until I really, really need it.

Have you tried anything yet?

I get my lips done. I haven’t actually had them done since Love Island. I think I probably will have them done again at some point, but for now my Naughty Nudes Lipgloss is like lip fillers in a tube anyway!

What do you think of cosmetic surgery?

I have nothing against it. If it gives you confidence, do it. But I’m more tempted to do things with make-up rather than cosmetic surgery. There’s nothing that I want to have done. I’m happy in myself.

Have you had any beauty disasters?

Oh God, yes! When I started wearing make-up, I used to have a big orange face and a white neck.

What do you like most and least about your looks?

I like my eyes, especially when I have my eyeliner on. I just feel really sexy. My least favourite? I would like a smaller forehead.

How do you stay in shape?

I’ve only started exercising in lockdown. I’m doing the Joe Wicks Youtube videos.

Do you follow a healthy diet as well? Since I started working out, I’ve been eating lots of vegetables, lean meat and healthy fats like nuts and salmon. I feel so much better. I don’t think I could go back to how I was before.

How were you before?

Before lockdown, I lived on pizzas, takeaways, eating like 50 Mcdonald’s in a week. I used to have crisp sandwiches for my breakfast.

Wow, how did you stay so slim?

It’s just luck. But I do still have cheat meals, and I do love a wine. I can’t wait until I can go out and socialise again.

Who from Love Island are you most likely to go dancing with until 6am?

I would say probably Chris, because we both just love to party.