Malaika Arora on the illusion of perfection and the beauty rule she loves to break

Any conversation with Malaika Arora is always no holds barred, even when it comes to beauty. The celebrity performer and restauranteur has been in the limelight for decades; all of it while being impeccably poised and incredibly confident. Whether she steps out for a yoga session with a bare face or on the red carpet in black tie formals, Malaika owns it; all with her effortlessly chic, confident flair. Now as the face of HYUE’s latest beauty campaign titled Own It, HELLO! spoke to the star on the makeup product she adores and how she carries herself with confidence.

HELLO!: What’s the first makeup product you ever fell in love with?
Malaika Arora: A good lipstick. Even before I knew much about makeup, I realised how one swipe could instantly transform your mood and presence. It’s timeless—lipstick has always been my first love and continues to be my constant companion.

HELLO!: What’s one beauty rule you love to break?
Malaika Arora: The idea that you must always “tone it down” as you grow older. I believe in wearing what excites me, whether that’s a bold red lip in the day or shimmer at brunch. Beauty shouldn’t come with age limits or rigid rules, it should be about joy.

HELLO!: Why is the HYUE Velvette Kiss Featherlight Lipstick a must-have in your makeup kit?
Malaika Arora: It’s everything I look for in a lipstick – luxurious yet effortless. The formula feels weightless, like you’re wearing nothing, but gives you this rich, velvety payoff that lasts. It’s that rare combination of comfort and glamour, and for me, that makes it an instant classic.

(Also Read: A celebrity hairstylist’s guide to pulling off Nicholas Hoult’s peroxide blonde hair)

HELLO!: What advice would you give to young fans who feel pressured to look perfect?
Malaika Arora: Perfection is an illusion, and chasing it will only leave you exhausted. I’d say focus on feeling good in your own skin: eat well, move your body, and choose products that make you feel confident, not masked. True beauty is when your personality shines through.

HELLO!: What’s your secret to carrying yourself with confidence, no matter the look?
Malaika Arora: Confidence has nothing to do with the outfit or the makeup—it comes from how you feel inside. I carry myself with ease because I’ve learned to trust my choices. When you’re comfortable in your own skin, even a bare face feels like a statement.

HELLO!: Do you have a signature makeup look that makes you feel unstoppable?
Malaika Arora: I always go back to glowing skin paired with a striking lip. It’s simple, but it feels powerful. For me, a bold lip is like armour; it instantly lifts my energy and makes me feel ready to take on anything.

(Also Read: Rashmika Mandanna on the power of fragrance and treasured memories: “If I smell something my mom used to wear, it takes me back to her”)