I'm Obsessed With '90s Makeup, so I Created My Own Supermodel-Worthy Mascara
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Original illustration by Joanna BauerSupermodels are smack dab in the center of the beauty industry. Think about it: they're the ones who regularly work with experts (AKA top hairstylists and makeup artists), use the latest products, and model the trendiest looks. It's no surprise then, that supermodel and SALA Co-Founder, Shanina Shaik, is so fluent in the space. All it takes is one look at her favorite skincare, hair care, and makeup products, and one thing becomes abundantly clear: she's an expert in her own right.
Her love of beauty and wellness developed over the course of many years. It also developed more out of necessity than anything else; a busy schedule and constant traveling—demanding hallmarks of the supermodel title—took their toll. "The results of overworking affected my mental health and physical appearance," she says. "Beauty and wellness is having the connection with yourself to listen to what your body and emotional self needs."
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Shanina ShaikWith this experience in mind, plus a deep love for nostalgic 90s beauty looks, Shaik explored something new—launching her own brand. "When I was 22 I knew I wanted to create a beauty brand," she says."It’s been a passion of mine for so many years! I’ve created Pinterest mood boards, spoken to influential expert estheticians, and researched what works for aging skin. My aim is to create SALA as the most trusted beauty brand with clean and cruelty-free formulas sourced from Korean beauty labs...I want my customers to feel happy, confident, and alive!"
The brand's first product, which just launched last month, is a modern mascara that pays homage to the iconic 90s lash look of supermodels like Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington, and more. She says it's the "perfect" mascara and one she "can't live without." It might be the brand's first and only product for now, but we can expect more where that came from...In the meantime, we're shopping for all Shaik's best beauty recommendations.
"I usually travel with my (travel size) bottle. I must have hairspray with me at all times. I love slick back buns. Tresemme has a favorable formula to keep my hair slicked back—no flyaways!"
"I highly recommend double cleansing if you wear makeup. This product has a gentle texture cream that is smooth, calming, and hydrating."
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"I’ve used this on and off for years. The results are remarkable. One of the best exfoliant products to have."
Editor's note: Log in to Shop Rescue Spa to see price.
"I can not live without it. My everyday mascara. So easy to apply and long-lasting— all day and night! It doesn’t damage my lashes with its clean formula and vegan biotin that strengthens your lashes with every wear. I call it my #falsiesinabottle."
"This boosts hydration and improves the skin barrier. My skin barrier has worsened (unfortunately ) after having a baby. It’s been a priority of mine to boost my skin barrier, especially if I’m in the LA sun a lot."
"This looks like your natural glowy skin with coverage. It blurs all your pores and brightens!"
"This 90’s era of lipsticks is VERY me! I love the pouty berry colors. I personally love lip colors near my natural lip tint/shade."
"One of my top skincare brands from Australia. They are easy to apply and never harsh on the skin. I started using retinol again after giving birth and breastfeeding."
"I love all the arrangements of colors. They are easy to travel with and apply. I prefer cream textures to powder. I find for my skin it creates a glow and natural look."
"I’ve been a little lazy with my under-eye cream. I began using this brightening eye cream after visiting their LA spa for a facial. I love the long-lasting effect."
"The perfect eyeshadow colors to use day and night. I love using black and brown shadow to elongate my eye."
"I had to look around all of LA to find this palette. It really is the ideal matte nude palette."
"This is always in my bag for travel to hydrate my lips if I’m not drinking enough water, after long flights, or before a glam session."
"I have too many shades to count! That’s why I love them so much. The color with the gloss can withstand some time."