Don’t dress up for anybody but yourself: Alia Bhatt

She burst into the film industry barely five years ago and since then Alia Bhatt has become a name to reckon with. The actress, who turned 24 just last week, can transform from the girl-next-door to a glamazon with ease. She was recently showstopper for Namrata Joshipura’s show at the Amazon India Fashion week. After Hrs caught up with the actress to get the lowdown on her beauty 101.

Beauty to you is…

Beauty is subjective. You can do your eyes or lips up and still not turn out looking good. Simple can be beautiful too. For me, less is always more, and I think your attitude, your behaviour, how you carry yourself — all determines your beauty.

What are your make-up essentials?

Mascara, a lip colour that goes with everything — usually a pink or coral and kajal.

What’s your skincare routine like?

I use a face wash and moisturiser everyday. I feel skin is a reflection of your health inside. When it is hot, skin tends to break out. So drinking lots of water, eating light food — hydration and rest is important.

What’s your hair care routine like?

I oil my hair once a week but don’t get time to do much else. I also ensure that I take vitamins for the hair, skin and nails.

Do you do your own make-up?

I can do my own make-up. I understand base and contouring etc. I’m also quite fond of doing eye make-up. I enjoy the process and try and observe make-up artists at work.

What’s your solution for dark circles under the eye?

Dark circles can be due to dehydration, lack of sleep or can be genetic at times. I use an eye cream regularly. Rest is just the best thing. Also, cucumber slices or green tea bags work wonders.

Do you prefer your hair in a pony or top knot or open?

My go-to look is a sleek ponytail or top knot. I also love braids. My stylist Ayesha can do anything — make a halo or a waterfall braid or bow — basically have fun with it.

Any beauty idols growing up? 

I admire my grandmother for her simplicity. She also has soft skin. She takes effort to get ready not for anyone else but just does it for herself. My mom enjoys make-up too.

Do you have a signature fragrance?

I love men’s perfumes as I find them more to my taste, they’re stronger. While promoting Dear Zindagi with Shah Rukh Khan I discovered a Dunhill one that I really like.

Any home remedies that you use for your skin or hair?

I try to relax my eyes whenever possible as due to the use of mobiles they become strained. I also give myself a face massage and exfoliate and steam my skin to clear the sinuses and give a glow.

Is it red lipcolour or nude lips for you? 

Mostly it’s nude shades but I occasionally like the red pout too.

Your favourite facial feature? 

My eyes and my dimples. I love playing up my eyes. Though I get bored easily, so I mix it up.

Is there anything you include in your diet for better skin and hair?

I eat lots of fruits. I also have a green vegetable and red vegetable juice consisting of spinach, kale, carrot, tomato, and beetroot. It’s good for the skin and your system in general.

One beauty product you can’t live without

Maybelline baby lips, Colossal kajal and their mascara. It gives me big lashes and lots of volume. I also like the Baby Lips as it gives the perfect tint plus moisturises the lips.

What’s your off duty hair and make-up look?

A moisturiser, a lip colour and hair either open and brushed out or tied up.

What was your beauty look for the Amazon India Fashion Week show?

Since I was the muse, my look went with the entire vibe of Namrata Joshipura’s collection. It was an edgy look — dark eyes with a little glitter — that added some drama on the ramp.

Any message to your female fans?

Keep it simple and be true to yourself. Don’t dress up for anybody but yourself.