We spoke about all things make-up with actress Nadine N. Njeim for the launch of MAC Cosmetics’ latest Limited Edition Black Cherry collection.

You’re the gold standard for everything beauty, with signature make-up looks that are replicated across the Middle East. So, how did you find your connection with MAC?

I love beauty and make-up, and I am a huge fan of MAC, I’ve been using so many of their iconic products for around 14 years — from complexion to eyeshadows, concealers and lipsticks. I was really happy when they approached me for our first campaign and felt very comfortable representing and working with a brand that I’m so familiar with, genuinely use and strongly believe in! I’m so excited to continue my partnership in the Black Cherry campaign.

This brings us to today and the latest Black Cherry Limited Edition collection. Its palette lives and breathes springtime — what’s your favourite product in the collection and why?

I loved the idea behind Black Cherry, it’s perfect for spring and kicking off the season. The products and shades are all well synchronized and I always use them together. I especially like the lipsticks’ creamy matte finish and the nourishing, tinted Glow Play Lip Balms that come in the most stunning springtime shades — my favorite is Fleur Welcome. The Extra Dimension Blushes also give a beautiful finish, and I find the liquid eyeliner pen incredibly easy to use to create the perfect line, perfect with great lashes. The Fix+ setting spray is also a favourite, and this one gets extra love because of its special-edition cherry blossom scent.

As a trendsetter in the region, what’s your favourite make-up trend this season and how do you see the collection elevate it?

I like using products that give my skin a beautiful glow, so it’s got to be blush. If we’re looking at this collection, the Extra Dimension Blush polishes to perfection with its light-reflecting look and flush of colour. In terms of lipsticks, I’ve always been a fan of a matte finish and thought that would never change, however recently I’ve also really been enjoying wearing the Glow Play Lip Balms. You can feel the nourishment and the soft look that it gives you, making my lips more hydrated and at the same time very feminine. It’s perfect for spring!

We’re very excited to feature MAC on Ounass for the first time — which MAC essentials do you always carry with you wherever you go?

I always carry my blush, eyeliner pen and lipliners wherever I go — these are some of my daily essentials that I also use as part of my make-up and always like to keep with me for touch-ups.

On a casual day off, what does your make-up routine look like?

For my day look, it’s usually more natural — a dash of pink blush paired with a natural shade of lipstick or tinted lip balm. As for the eyes, I almost always choose to wear a light eyeshadow with a thin eyeliner and a nice pair of lashes.

You’re known for bold, smokey Arabian eye make-up — a style considered daring, dramatic and difficult to master. What advice would you give someone wanting to experiment? 

My advice would be to understand your features and what make-up and techniques work best on them. Make-up is a tool to enhance your beauty, so be your own inspiration to wear the style that suits you best and makes you feel confident.

What’s the first make-up product you fell in love with and how did MAC’s professional version give it an upgrade?

I remember being 23 when I purchased my first-ever MAC product: the Velvet Teddy Lipstick, and it remains one of my all-time favorites. I also bought the eyeshadows and concealers, which I still use to this day — and then I tried their Studio Fix Foundation and I haven't changed it since, I absolutely love it on my skin.

Your Instagram’s peek into motherhood during this pandemic has put smiles across your followers’ faces, how does make-up give your day a little me-time?

I love the weekend because it’s my own private time with my kids — and I always make sure to have some me-time during the day to take care of my skin and enjoy putting on make-up with my go-to essentials.