Malaika Arora has always lived her life on her own terms and continues to be a shining example of self-care as the ultimate form of self-love. So, when cosmetics brand Hyue was designing its campaign, ‘Own It’, they picked Malaika as the face. The campaign launches with the debut of the VelvetteKiss Featherlight Lipstick, and in a chat with t2, Malaika spoke about why it resonated with her, how she’s seen the concept of make-up change, and her life’s mantras.

Many congratulations, Malaika. Why was Hyue a great brand fit with your personality?

Thank you! For me, Hyue represents more than just beauty. It represents a mindset. I’ve always believed in making choices that are true to me, whether in my career, fitness, or fashion, and Hyue carries the same spirit. It’s bold, modern, and unapologetic. I love that the brand encourages women to feel powerful in their own skin without waiting for approval from anyone. That’s very much how I’ve lived my life, which is why Hyue and I felt like a natural match.

What do you love about the VelvetteKiss Featherlight Lipstick?

I’m genuinely obsessed with the texture. The first time I tried it, I couldn’t get over how light it felt — almost like you’re not wearing anything — and yet the colour is so rich and striking. Usually, you compromise between comfort and payoff, but with VelvetteKiss, you don’t have to. It has this beautiful, velvety matte finish that looks polished, but the comfort level makes it easy to wear from morning to night. It’s that rare lipstick that you can forget about once you put it on, but everyone else notices instantly.

‘Own It’ has been your life’s mantra. How much did the theme resonate with you?

‘Own It’ isn’t just a phrase to me — it’s the way I’ve approached every stage of my life. There’s always pressure to fit into boxes, to be a certain way, but I’ve chosen to stand by my decisions, even when they weren’t the easiest. That confidence, that belief in carrying yourself on your terms, is what ‘owning it’ means. And that’s exactly what Hyue inspires — to own your presence completely — in your voice, your path, and your look.

How have your life choices shaped you?

My choices have been the most powerful teachers in my life. Some were celebrated, some questioned, but each of them has made me stronger and more certain of who I am. They’ve given me resilience, perspective, and the courage to move forward without looking back. More than anything, they’ve shown me that staying true to your path, no matter how unconventional, always pays off in the long run.

Who are other women who remind you of ‘Own It’?

I see it everywhere, every day. My mother is the first example — she’s the strongest influence in my life, and her strength and determination shaped me. Among my friends, too, I see women who live life on their terms, they don’t conform, they don’t hold back, and that’s inspiring. And even professionally, I meet so many women — young entrepreneurs, designers, creators, who are challenging the norm and rewriting the rules. Each of them, in their own way, reminds me of what it means to own it.

Coming back to make-up, how do you see make-up now vs when you started working?

The difference is huge. When I started, make-up was very structured, heavy, and often about creating a ‘perfect’ look. There wasn’t much room for freedom or experimentation. Today, make-up is about play, comfort, and expression. You can go all out with a bold lip one day, keep it minimal with just skin and mascara the next — and both are celebrated. I love that make-up has evolved into something that’s less about covering up and more about highlighting who you are. It’s lighter, fresher, and far more exciting.

What are you absolutely obsessed with in your make-up kit?

Lipstick, without a doubt. It’s my instant pick-me-up. No matter how busy or chaotic the day is, just one swipe of lipstick changes everything — your look, your mood, your energy. And right now, my obsession is the VelvetteKiss.

Are you a forever red lipstick girl?

Yes! Red lipstick has been my constant. It’s timeless, it’s powerful, and it always makes you feel ready for the spotlight. A good red can take you from day to night effortlessly. And honestly, when you find the right red, you don’t just wear it — it wears you, in the best way. Red will always be a signature for me.

Among your friends, who has a super sense of make-up?

So many of my friends! What I love most is that each one interprets make-up differently. Some are minimalists, some love experimenting, and some can nail a look in five minutes flat. It’s not about being technically ‘perfect’ — it’s about how confidently you carry what works for you. That’s what makes their make-up sense so interesting to me.

What’s on your buy list next?

Lately, I’ve been very drawn to skincare tools and wellness products — things that help me recharge and reset, especially with my schedule. I also love discovering new textures in make-up. And of course, my buy list always includes more lipsticks. I don’t think there’s such a thing as too many shades, especially now with VelvetteKiss, I want every colour in my kit!