This week, You! chats with beautiful actor Zara Tareen as she spills the tea on her go-to beauty hacks and skincare must-haves…
beauty
Beauty takes on many forms, and for Zara Tareen, it’s as much about authenticity as it is about appearances. Her journey into acting wasn’t planned, but it’s been nothing short of intriguing. “I was kind of found,” she says, reflecting on how it all began. Zara’s journey took a creative turn when she shifted from computer science engineering to studying Cinematography and Filmmaking.
Her first photo shoot for ‘The News’ with photographers Ather & Shahzad marked the beginning of her career. Over the years, Zara has taken on many roles, from acting in serials like ‘Yahya’, ‘Saat Mulaqatain’, ‘Gumn’, and ‘Meri Nanni Pari’ to performing on stage in ‘Manto Mera Dost’ at NAPA. She blends her technical knowledge with her creative passion and also works as a fashion photographer, managing her different interests seamlessly. This talented gal has some exciting projects in the pipeline for 2025.
This week, Zara spills the tea on her go-to beauty hacks and skincare must-haves…
What’s your go-to makeup look?
Very minimal for everyday – just BB cream, blush, lip tint, and mascara.
Do you remember when you first fell in love with makeup?
I’ve never really been obsessed with makeup, but I started paying attention to my eyes around the age of 15. The first time I wore a full face of makeup was for my first modelling shoot.
Any sun-care rituals you swear by?
I used to be quite lazy about sunscreen, but for the past year, I’ve made a real effort. It’s absolutely essential.
Skincare tips for autumn/winter?
I have dry skin, so I’ve gone back to basics: a simple serum with essential ingredients, moisturiser, and sunscreen. At night, I use oils like castor and jojoba or a skin barrier repair cream.
Your top picks for perfumes and lipsticks?
My all-time favourite perfume is Dior Oud Ispahan. For lips, I prefer a nude natural shade during the day and MAC Russian Red for the evening – it’s a classic.
What’s your ideal foundation?
My skin tone shifts between summer and winter, so I switch foundations accordingly. I avoid foundation unless it’s for an event, but I’ve been using The Ordinary Foundation - full coverage - for evenings and their Serum Foundation for daytime.
How do you cleanse your face after a long day?
Coconut oil, micellar water, or The Ordinary Squalene Cleanser.
How do you deal with hair damage?
I’ve had hair fall issues, especially after being unwell last year. I’ve reduced shampooing to 2–3 times a week and only use hot tools when necessary.
Top hair-care tips?
Don’t over-wash your hair and consider taking vitamins – they’ve significantly improved my hair health. Sleeping in a satin scarf or cap also helps prolong blowouts.
Advice for those on a budget?
Makeup doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of great drugstore and Pakistani brands that deliver excellent results.
What’s your diet secret for glowing skin?
I’m not great at dieting and dont’t have a good appetite, so portion control is key for me. I think you should enjoy what you eat but try to include things that genuinely benefit you.
A cosmetic you can’t live without?
Lip colour – I can do my whole face with it in a pinch.
Favourite makeup brands?
I wish Bare Minerals was available in Pakistan. Otherwise, I go for anything convenient and multi-use.
What’s always in your beauty bag?
Lip colour, lip liner, BB cream, mascara, and a good blending brush.
What’s tricky about makeup for you?
Eyeliner, definitely. I have very round eyes and can never get it quite right. The struggle is real, but when it works, it’s worth it.
How often do you get facials?
Not as often as I’d like – maybe once a month if I feel like it.
Makeup artist you admire?
Globally, trends seem to overshadow artistry in makeup now, but I think no one beats Tariq Amin or Saima Rashid Bargfrede, locally.
Your daily beauty routine?
In the morning: a light face wash, peptide serum, moisturiser, and sunscreen. At night: a thorough cleanse, oils, and a repair cream.
Your take on whitening creams?
Avoid them at all costs. Products targeting hyperpigmentation with proven science are fine, but anything preying on insecurities is not trustworthy.
What does beauty mean to you?
Contentment with oneself – that’s what truly makes someone beautiful.