“Beauty is an attitude” – Fatima Lodin

beauty

Some journeys begin quietly and build over time. Others take shape through consistent work and steady choices. Fatima Lodin has built her career across modelling, advertising and television through hands-on experience and training. She pursued acting and performance with determination, investing in formal acting and dance training despite having no industry connections, laying the groundwork for her on-screen career. Her early commercial work included campaigns for major brands such as KIA Motors, EasyPaisa and more. She later transitioned into acting with the TV serial ‘Dil Pe Zakham Khaye Hain’.

Outside of screen work, Fatima has an academic background in Biology and Psychology and has been involved in sports, both of which have shaped her discipline and approach to work. She continues to take on diverse projects, including international reality formats, while preparing for future acting roles. This week, she shares her beauty secrets with our readers…

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

I was obsessed with makeup from day one, but I wasn’t allowed to touch much of it. My sisters and mom were always fully done, serving looks, while I stood on the side observing and taking mental notes. Every now and then, I’d get lucky with a swipe of lip gloss, but that was as far as it went.

What is your go-to makeup look?

I always go for a natural, no-makeup look. I like a dewy, glass-skin finish that looks fresh and effortless.

Finding the perfect foundation isn’t easy. What is your preferred tone?

I have a cool, pinkish undertone, which makes finding the right shade difficult. I rely on foundations from NARS, Charlotte Tilbury and Revlon and always carry them to shoots because my shade isn’t usually available.

Is there anything that scares you when applying makeup?

Eyeliner. I don’t use it unless it’s a major event. It takes focus, and one wrong move can ruin the whole look.

What essentials do you always carry in your beauty bag?

A lip and cheek tint, lip oil, lip balm and sunscreen.

Is there a cosmetic product you can’t live without?

Sunscreen and lip balm.

Which makeup brands top your list?

NARS, Fenty, Charlotte Tilbury, Dior, Too Faced and HUDA Beauty.

Any routine you swear by when stepping out in the sun?

Water, sunscreen, lip balm and sunglasses, always.

What is your daily beauty regime?

I stick to the basics: a gentle cleanser, a good moisturiser and sunscreen. Drinking plenty of water is just as important.

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

I keep it simple with two steps; a hydrating cream cleanser from CeraVe, followed by the CeraVe foam face wash.

How often do you pamper yourself with salon facials?

Very rarely. I might get a hydra facial if I’m traveling frequently.

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

With frequent shoots, hair damage can happen, so I focus on care. I oil my hair at least twice a week, take my vitamins and avoid heat whenever possible.

What are your go-to tips for maintaining healthy hair?

Good genes definitely help, I inherited my mom’s thick hair, but maintenance still matters. I oil my hair regularly, focus on a protein-rich diet and never skip trims to keep split-ends under control.

What does your diet look like to maintain that glow?

Plenty of greens and protein, regular workouts and lots of water. It’s really about lifestyle choices.

What are your top picks for perfume and lipsticks?

Perfumes: Chloe ‘Love Story’, ‘J’adore’ by Dior, YSL ‘Libre’ and Tom Ford ‘Black Orchid’.

For lips, I prefer lip glosses and lip oils over lipsticks. My favourites are Clarins Lip Oil in Cherry and Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil. I generally like hydrating formulas.

Not everyone can afford high-end makeup. What’s your advice for them?

There are great budget-friendly options. e.l.f. has an excellent range, especially their foundation and lip oils. Zero Makeup is another great local brand, and their Face Perfecting Palette offers solid quality at an affordable price.

What is your take on whitening creams?

Whitening creams are harmful and rely on insecurities. Beauty has nothing to do with skin tone. Every shade is beautiful.

Any skincare advice for young girls?

Consistency with the basics is key. Cleanse your face gently twice a day, morning and night. Never skip moisturiser and sunscreen. Avoid harsh scrubs, don’t pick at pimples and give heavy foundations a break. Staying hydrated and active also makes a big difference.

Finally, what does the word ‘beauty’ mean to you?

Beauty is way deeper than just external looks. To me, beauty is all about attitude, embracing your uniqueness and having confidence. It’s about compassion, lifting others up and staying authentic. Real beauty is being the most genuine version of yourself.