How your fave local celebs perfect their beauty looks

When it comes to hair and beauty inspo, Mzansi’s ladies are leading the way.

From embracing natural beauty to experimenting with colour, they encourage us to express ourselves confidently. These proudly South African beauty icons have shared a few secrets with us that may surprise you.

PEARL THUSI IS ‘AU NATURAL ROOTS’

Pearl Thusi is all about natural hair. “Keep your ends trimmed and rest your hair between styles – ethnic hair needs a break between treatments and tight styles. Shampooing too often strips out natural oils. I believe a good conditioner is your best friend – it can be used to wash, moisturise, protect and nourish hair.”  

SIMPLE IS SWEET WITH LEANNE DLAMINI

Committed to the basics: a good skincare routine. “Looking after your skin doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It’s pretty simple: cleanse, tone and moisturise. I rarely go for facials or do masks, unless I have free time or am feeling fancy at home.”  

LIRA IS SHIMMER AND SHINE

Lira’s go-to beauty secret is hydrated lips and glowing skin. “A little bit of shimmer on the cheeks gives you that healthy glow, while a light pink lip gloss adds to that shine. This makes me look youthful and fresh.”  

POUT IT OUT WITH KEFILWE MABOTE

Kefilwe Mabote takes the minimalist ‘less is more’ approach. “Make-up should enhance what you have. It must be classy and chic. The quickest way is to pick your ‘power’ lip shade – red is a favourite, of course, even without a full face of make-up. Never underestimate the power of a good lipstick. And I love matte lipsticks!”  

MIHLALI’S A DIY GIRL

When it comes to pamper time, Mihlali Ndamase suggests mixing simple kitchen ingredients. “Lemon, turmeric and milk or plain yoghurt makes a mask that helps get rid of scarring and uneven skin tone. There are also alternatives to scrubs and exfoliants, like using brown sugar.”  

NOMZAMO IS SCREEN QUEEN

Nomzamo Mbatha doesn’t “do heavy make-up” so her skin always has to be at its healthiest. “I am a believer in serums and I adore, adore, adore sunscreen. I thought black people didn’t need it but a make-up artist set me right. From that day, I’ve never not worn sunscreen, even when I’m inside the house.”  

Photographs: Gallo/Getty Images, Supplied