April 30th, 2019
With her comeback to music, her brand-new single Daddy released earlier this month, and her collaboration with W7 Cosmetics, Tulisa is a busy woman. We caught up with her on her return from the Coachella festival, where she was hosted by W7.
What’s your first make up memory?
It’s definitely my aunt – she had a very strong look, heavy eyes and lipliner; that really vampy 90s look. When I was eleven I begged her to make me up and so she did. I remember looking in the mirror and thinking “wow!” I absolutely loved it and wanted to look like that every day. I’m still recreating that look now!
Bursting onto the UK music scene as a teenager, what’s the first product you remember using and did that affect your later product choices?
I’ve always looked for products that work and are good value for money – I’m not going to spend £500 on a highlighter when I know I can find something just as good for a more realistic price. When I started in music I was using the Boots No17 make up range. They had concealer sticks that were ideal for me. I used them for about seven years, until my makeup artist introduced me to Shu Uemura concealer pencils. I was obsessed with them as they really worked. I couldn’t believe it when they were discontinued. However W7 do a concealer pencil – I was so excited when I discovered them!
What’s the one piece of makeup that makes you feel performance ready?
Powder powder powder! This is so important for me when performing; I get really hot and my face gets shiny as each performance is so physically demanding. I have powder at the side of the stage with a bottle of water so I can have a quick drink and touch up my powder between songs.
When I’m not on stage, my concealer stick and lashes are my everyday weapons.
What’s your go-to long-lasting makeup for performances? What changes do you make to your makeup routine on your days off?
I’m not precious about brands particularly; I like products that work and are reasonably priced. I had heard of W7 and used the brand before I started working with them. I now just use W7 cosmetics and am loving the whole range. The only non-W7 product I use is Rimmel Black Eyeliner as this is great when I’m on stage – you can melt it so that it’s easy to apply and will stay in place for 24 hours.
When I’m not performing I do my own make up, but I still have a very similar style, still a very smoky look. I just change the eyeshadow colours up a little – from brown to pink to purple.
When I’m performing I always try to have some non-makeup days, other than using a concealer pencil. It’s important for me to allow my skin to breathe and prevent breakouts.
Promoting your new single after a few years away will doubtlessly mean a busy calendar. What’s your skincare regime to keep you looking your best?
I have a regular treatment programme to keep my skin plumped and looking fresh. I have a collagen wave treatment every two months, as well as treatments to help tighten my facial muscles and give a lifted, contoured look – it’s like taking your face to the gym. I also have facials to keep my skin hydrated, and use Teoxane peels.
I always make sure I use plenty of eye cream, particularly at night, as this can be first place you can see signs of ageing. I also use a gradual everyday acid peel which I mix with my moisturiser to assist with regular exfoliation.
I am addicted to wheatgrass spray, which I get from the US. I buy it online or stock up when I’m over there. It keeps my face really hydrated and I use it during the day and last thing at night. I originally got it as it was recommended to help with scarring, but I realised it was such a great moisturiser that I use it all the time now rather than a lotion or cream.
You spend a lot of time in LA – what differences have you found in the makeup you wear in the US as opposed to at home in London?
I take my own products with me when I go over there, so I use the same products all the time. However I do make sure I stock up on the wheatgrass spray while I’m there!
What’s the one product you can’t live without?
My W7 Touch n Go concealer pencil – it genuinely is!
Credit: Tulisa collaborates with W7 Cosmetics for Spring/Summer 2019, www.w7cosmetics.co.uk