MinMinMa

TRADE SECRET

I consider myself as a loyal person. I’m faithful to the people and things that I like and feel connected to. I find comfort in knowing that these people and things are familiar, rooted and always trustworthy. But there’s also another side of me that is curious, willing to try anything new and ever so restless. I can’t be blamed for - it comes with my job.

The content of a professional makeup artist’s case is as varied as the life in the deep ocean. It’s filled with must-have products, latest finds, tricks & tips, an extra ounce of personal touch, and always different from one artist to the next. So without further due, I’d like to brag a little about my 5 latest beauty musts. (!!!)

Duchess Marden Face Crème: I can’t explain it - you just have to try it for yourself. The texture and consistency are just right. Recommended for all skin types.

Indu body lotion: thanks to my friend Alex who introduced me to this granola-lovey-dovey lotion which is made with all natural ingredients and essential oils like Geranium, Bergamot, Lavender, Lemon, Mandarin, Ylang Ylang and Rose. You can find it in selected yoga rooms nationwide or online.

Really Raw Honey: I don’t carry this in my makeup kit because realistically speaking, most photo shoots are limited with time so no time for mask. Yes that’s right! I use honey as a facial mask. Honey is a natural antiseptic which helps with healing burns and small cuts and can be used to help soothe and heal the skin. It’s also a humectant, which means it helps keep your skin moisturized.

Tribeca Acupuncture: this is another great recommendation from a friend. Dr Yusuf Ibrahim explained to me that no one dies from not getting acupuncture treatment but it certainly helps with one’s overall quality of life. Think of it as yoga for the internals. Did I forget to mention that he is also caring, informative and a big foodie?

Tata Harper Aromatic Stress Treatment: I dab few drops of this oil blend on my wrists before any makeup applications because it’s soothing and relaxing for myself and the subject. I also use it as an on-the-go fragrance with its easy roll-on applicator.

2012 CHAT

I was featured in ElleCanada.com’s 6 New Year’s beauty resolutions.

1. Wear more red lipstick

“Generally, blondes should look for a warmer red and brunettes a red with a cooler blue undertone. But it’s really about differentiating between personal preference and style. Orange is a little trendier, while blue-red is more classic.” – New York-based makeup artist Min Min Ma. Vanessa Craft

…

5. Choose the right makeup brushes

Makeup artist Min Min Ma suggests these brushes:

Powder: Get the fluffiest brush possible for full coverage. Blush and bronzer: Opt for a medium-sized natural-hair brush for powder and a synthetic brush for cream. Eyeshadow: Try an all-around fluff brush and tap off any extra product. Brows: An angled brush helps define brows, and it can also be dipped in water to create a cat-eye look.  Amanda Chen

SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE 

I just got back from San Miguel de Allende last night. Although I can’t tell you just yet for what project I went there for, take a look at these personal pictures I took during the trip. Stay tuned for the real deal!