Fashion model and actress, Amna Ilyas has not only opened and closed numerous fashion shows for several top notch designers but has also won multiple awards for her work.

Known for her unconventional looks, Amna swiftly transitioned from modeling to acting in 2013 and made her debut with the award-winning film Zinda Bhaag that featured veteran Bollywood actor Naseerudin Shah as well as Khurram Patras.

She later featured in Sabiha Sumar’s critically acclaimed Good Morning Pakistan.

The model and actress, who last appeared in Meenu Gaur and Farjad Nabi’s 7 Din Mohabbat In that featured Mahira Khan and Sheheryar Munawar in lead roles, is gearing up for not one but two upcoming films; a romantic comedy called Ready Steady No and Saqib Malik’s Baaji that stars Meera jee, Ali Kazmi, Mohsin Abbas Haider and Osman Khalid Butt in important roles.

Instep got in touch with her to find out about her beauty staples and what she stashes in her makeup bag…

Skincare routine

When it comes to her skincare routine, Amna has a few home remedies that she relies on. "I swear by applying potato juice on my face to reduce dark spots and to get rid of unwanted tans. I also apply tomato juice, which is super instant," Amna shared.

Apart from this, the actress’ skincare regime includes drinking lots of water to stay hydrated throughout the day. "I believe drinking water is the secret to my smooth glowing skin. Besides, I make sure to remove my makeup with Bobbi Brown’s makeup remover before going to bed every night. I also use Tatcha cleansing oil and a night time serum by The Ordinary to keep my skin healthy and glowing."

Haircare regime

With constant styling and using tons of products, how does Amna manage to keep her hair healthy and lustrous? Revealing her secret, she said that it is because of L’Oreal Professionnel Smartbond hair treatment. "Ever since I have opted for this treatment, my hair has become soft, lustrous and there’s almost no hair breakage."

Makeup essentials

"I usually prefer no makeup and allowing my skin to breathe. However, I can’t live without concealer and cleanser. Some of my makeup essentials include pore refiner by Benefit Cosmetics, concealer, Maybelline’s Super Stay foundation, Masarrat Misbah Makeup’s apricot blush and lip balm by The Body Shop."

When on a holiday…

"My go-to holiday look is simple. My hair is usually relaxed and up and if I’m going to some place nice and fancy then I let my hair down. As far as makeup is concerned, I go for a winged eye liner and a pop of colour on the lips."

All-time favourites

Talking about her biggest beauty indulgence, the model and actress said that it has to be a lipstick. "As for cosmetic brands, my top favourites are Clarins, Chanel and Armani. Other than beauty products, one of my favourite perfumes these days is Fabulous by Tom Ford."

Favourite and not-so favourite beauty trends

A beauty trend that is a big NO for Amna Ilyas is black lipstick. When it comes to a trend that she absolutely loves, she shared, "That would be nude eyes, red lips and hair tied in a top knot."

My makeup bag is full of…

"Oh, you will find a lot of cosmetics in my makeup bag. Some of the beauty products include a concealer by Art Deco, Rimmel lipsticks and a hand moisturizer by The Body Shop."

Makeup tips Amna swears by…

If you want to make your lipstick last long, here is a tip that Amna swears by. "Always blot your lips after putting on lipstick. It’s a guarantee to make it last longer. Moreover, spritzing on makeup setting spray in between steps, always work for me."