BANKING ON BEAUTY

beauty

Balancing multiple careers is not easy, but some find ways to make it work. For Aliya Sattar, modelling and banking exist side by side, each shaping a different part of her journey.

While working as a banker in Switzerland, she also built a career in modelling, a passion that took her from debuting in Karachi to collaborating with well-known brands like Tasneem Sadaf, Amina Yasmeen, Aura, and Maha Sheikh.

Aliya’s first modelling project was a shoot for a beauty salon, a turning point that led to further opportunities featuring in Eid collections, summer lines, and winter campaigns. Alongside modelling, she shares her experiences through vlogging and podcast appearances, discussing the industry and her journey.

Despite her professional commitments abroad, Aliya remains connected to Pakistan, frequently visiting family and taking on modelling projects during her trips. Looking ahead, she continues to explore new opportunities, balancing her work in both fields. This week, she shares her beauty secrets with our readers…

Do you remember when you first fell in love with makeup?

Absolutely. I was a teenager when I first experimented with blush and pink lipstick - I felt so fancy.

What’s your go-to makeup look?

A fresh, natural look with dewy skin, soft nude eyeshade, and a nude or pink lip.

How do you protect yourself from the sun?

SPF 50, always. Sunglasses and a hat if possible, and I avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours.

A cosmetic you simply can’t live without?

Lip gloss and mascara - I never leave home without them.

Top makeup brands you swear by?

Charlotte Tilbury, M.A.C, Huda Beauty, and Dior.

Beauty bag essentials?

Lip balm and gloss, kajal, mascara, and a mini perfume.

What do you fear the most while applying makeup?

Applying too much foundation - it can make my face look unnatural. And don’t even get me started on eyeliner… making both wings even is a real struggle.

Finding the perfect foundation is a struggle. What’s your go-to tone?

A neutral or slightly warm tone that matches my skin perfectly - no oxidation disasters. I used to wear M.A.C Studio Fix NC27.

Top picks for perfumes and lipsticks?

Perfumes: Chanel and Lady Dior.

Lipsticks: M.A.C Velvet Teddy, Dior Addict Lip Glow.

After a long day, how do you cleanse your face?

Double cleanse - first with a cleansing balm or micellar water, then with a gentle foaming cleanser.

What’s your must-do skincare tip?

Hydration, hydration, hydration. I use a heavy moisturiser, a hydrating serum, and never skip lip balm.

Hair damage is every girl’s nightmare. How do you tackle it?

Deep conditioning treatments, hair oiling, using a heat protectant, and minimising heat styling. I also get hair Botox once a month for smooth, healthy hair.

Go-to tips for maintaining healthy hair?

Silk pillowcases, scalp massages with natural oils, drinking lots of water, and trimming split ends regularly. Twice a week, I do a coconut oil treatment.

What’s in your diet for that glowing skin?

Lots of water, fresh fruits and veggies, healthy fats (avocados, nuts), and minimal processed food. Homemade remedies are my secret weapon.

How often do you pamper yourself with a salon facial?

At least once a month for deep cleansing and hydration.

Stylists that inspire you, locally and internationally?

Internationally, Pat McGrath, Charlotte Tilbury. Locally, I admire top editorial makeup artists.

What’s your daily beauty routine?

In the morning it goes like; cleanser, serum, moisturiser, SPF. And at night, the order is; cleanser, toner, exfoliate (twice a week), serum, moisturiser, and sometimes a sleeping mask.

Not everyone can afford high-end makeup. Any budget-friendly advice?

You don’t need to splurge. Maybelline, NYX, and L’Oréal have great products. Focus on skincare - good skin makes any makeup look flawless.

Your take on whitening creams?

I prefer skincare that brightens and evens out skin tone rather than changing it. Healthy skin is more important than fairness. If you want a natural glow, try home remedies - scrubbing with rice powder, yogurt, or honey works wonders.

Where do you usually shop for makeup?

London, Switzerland, and Dubai. Sephora is a favourite, and I love online beauty stores too.

Finally, what does ‘beauty’ mean to you?

Confidence, self-love, and embracing your unique features - because true beauty shines from within.