At the Vanity Table With… is a series that dives into a personality’s beauty tips, tricks, non-negotiables, and more. In this edition, Weena Marcus divulges her must-have beauty step (spoiler: it’s a cheek product), why she has such a crush on Gisou’s founder Negin Mirsalehi, and more.
A true multihyphenate, Weena Marcus (@weenamarcus on Instagram) is more than your average influencer. Sure, she’s built a following of more than 60,000 on Instagram, but with the sizeable platform, the host, model, and former beauty queen spends her time emanating positivity.
Aside from sharing her wellness journey and frequent trips to the beach, she’s also a proud Sabahan. An indigenous woman of Rungus-Kadazan roots, she’s big on sharing her slice of heritage on the internet. Just last year, she documented herself teaching her Western Malaysian counterparts the Sumazau dance, her way of treating homesickness during the Kaamatan festive period.
When she takes her hosting hat off, she’s also a mainstay at many a beauty launch around town, which gives her an insider look into what’s to come. Ahead, she shares her beauty opinions, must-haves, and little fun facts that make her Weena Marcus.
Confess a beauty crime that you have committed before
I used to skip toner in my skincare routine. I have also used retinol and never put on sunscreen after… Can you believe it?
A beauty item you would immediately replace if it’s lost
The Dior Addict Lip Glow Balm.
Three items that are on your beauty wish list right now
The first one is the ULike LED Mask. More recently, I’ve had my eyes on the Dyson Airstrait and the Kylie Cosmetics Powder Blush.
A person you have the biggest beauty crush on, and why?
Negin Mirsalehi (@negin_mirsalehi) is my ultimate beauty crush! She’s such a beauty and her hair is an absolute goal. What truly inspires me is the story behind her brand, Gisou, which originates from her family’s legacy in beekeeping. It’s remarkable how she seamlessly merges her passions for bees, nature, family, and beauty into one extraordinary brand.
Something you’re gatekeeping right now. Spill.
It’s got to be the La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Eye Lift Cream. It’s the only eye cream you will ever need!
A trend that needs to die
Overly distressed clothing, especially in denim, can add character to an outfit. However, it can sometimes appear too worn-out and messy for my taste.
A viral product that does nothing for you
The CLIO Mesh Glow Foundation. While I love the packaging, the coverage was rather mediocre. I wished they had expanded the shade range, though.
A makeup step you will never skip before you head out the door
Blush is an essential step in my makeup routine—I never forget to put it on! I can walk out with no eyebrows but a blusher is a must. There’s just something about having rosy cheeks that adds a beautiful, glowing touch to my look. It instantly brightens my complexion and gives me a healthy, youthful appearance.
The skincare item that completely transformed your skin for the better
The Clarins Soothing Toner Lotion for dry and sensitive skin is a real game-changer for me. With my skin prone to dryness, sensitivity, redness, and blackheads, this gentle toner has been incredibly soothing and nourishing.
Your trick to achieve the best hair day
Before styling the hair, it’s crucial to use a heat protection product. Personally, I love using the Olaplex Bond Smoother and Olaplex Bond Oil for added protection and nourishment.
An unexpected beauty hack you always incorporate into your routine
I’ve picked up some amazing gua sha tips from my makeup artist to depuff and lift my face before applying makeup! It’s truly remarkable to see how this simple gua sha massage can transform my complexion, and the best part is, it only takes one minute!
An underrated perfume you think everyone should give a chance to
Issey Miyake’s L’Eau d’Issey Eau & Magnolia. It always earns me compliments whenever I wear it!
The last beauty indulgence you had done
I just treated myself to a full-body red light therapy session! Red light therapy uses low-level wavelengths of red light to treat skin conditions like wrinkles and acne, reduce inflammation, repair muscle tissues, and promote healthy ageing.
A song that will always get you in the mood to get ready
Ne-Yo’s “Miss Independent”, for sure!
Brands that check all the boxes for you
Dior Beauty.
Malaysians you look up to
Vivy Yusof. I admire her entrepreneurial skills but love her sense of humour the most! Her ability to turn setbacks into opportunities and build an empire is truly inspiring.
A mantra that you live by
There are always enough seats at the table.