Plus more on her latest makeup collaboration
She’s an ARIA award-winning singer that’s risen to the top of the charts since winning The X Factor Australia four years ago. And now, Samantha Jade has made her first foray in the beauty space with a collaboration that will hit Priceline stores on November 11. In an exclusive interview, we asked Samantha Jade about her career highlights, beauty must-haves and the secret to her stunning tresses.
What has been the biggest achievement in your career?
Well it’s been quite a ride! Obviously winning The X Factor was amazing and so unexpected, but the best was probably when I sang a demo for Celine Dion waaaay back in the day and she copied my runs! That made me feel like I had really made it! It’s on YouTube and you can hear me singing the demo in the background and see her learning from my version. Very, very cool. It’s called Map to My Heart.
How has life changed for you since winning The X Factor four years ago?
It has changed completely! I now get to sing and work in the business I always wanted to have a career in so it’s pretty amazing... as well as do fabulous things like launch my own makeup range with Models Prefer.
How did your collaboration with Models Prefer come about?
Before I was a singer I was actually a makeup artist, so I have always had a keen interest in makeup and have dreamt of my own line for many years. I really wanted to create something that was high quality but affordable, so I approached Models Prefer, which is Priceline Pharmacy’s own brand. And after many months of hard work, here we are!
What is your favourite product from the range?
The brushes. They feel beautiful and I love the rose gold detail. The range actually started with the brushes first and then grew from there.
What are five of your favourite beauty products of all time, and why?
I love eyelash curlers because I have dead straight lashes. I like the Tweezerman one as it’s super easy to use.
NYX Gel Eyeliner and Smudger for when I want a beautiful dark eye.
Body Bling by Scott Barnes is the best body bronzer – it takes you from "I haven’t left the studio" to "I’ve been in the Bahamas for the week!"
Samantha Jade for Models Prefer Strobing Palette – it’s all about the glow!
Avene Thermal Spring Water – this is great for freshening up tired skin during a long day or when travelling.
How do you look after your skin? Do you have any tips for maintaining a glow?
I wash my face twice a day and moisturise all the time - it’s all about hydration. And lots of water!! Especially with how much I am on the go. I keep a water bottle with me at all times.
You’ve got some of the best hair in the business - how do you keep your hair healthy?
Thank you so much! I have to give all the credit to my hairstylist Jayde Turner Ledwidge, she literally does everything for my hair: cut, colour, styling, treatment. She got me on to Olaplex, which if you are a faux blonde is the best thing to keep strands healthy!
You’re constantly on the go with performing, and were recently on Home and Away. What keeps you sane when you have a busy schedule?
My family and close friends. I’m in constant contact with my dad and brothers and best friends and they keep me very sane. If I need a "moment" I call them so that I get a real response. Whether it’s good or bad, it’s always honest and that’s what you need.
What’s the best beauty advice you’ve been given and who gave it to you?
My mum said the best thing for beauty is sleep and water and she is right. Makeup can only do so much! You have to take care of yourself first to have a nice base.
Growing up, who was your beauty idol, and why?
My mum. She taught me everything about makeup, skin care and health – anything girly, she knew about... I always wanted to look just like my mumma!
Iantha is BEAUTYcrew's Beauty Editor, and has been part of the team since the site launched in 2016. Besides pinky-nude nail polish and wispy false lashes, she has a healthy obsession with face masks and skin care ingredients. Her previous work can be found in Virgin Australia Voyeur, Women's Health, and SHOP Til You Drop.