Singer and telenovela veteran Maite Perroni took a break from filming La Gata to reveal her beauty secrets to GBL's Kika Rocha.
At just 31, Maite Perroni already has six lead telenovela roles under her belt, a massive fan base of more than 3 million Twitter followers, a red-hot musical career, and a Pantene contract. The Mexico City-born beauty gained fame while part of the pop band RBD, formed in 2004 with fellow cast members of one of her most popular Mexican novelas, Rebelde. The band broke up in 2009 after seven albums and multiple awards, but Perroni's career has only skyrocketed since. Her solo album, Eclipse de Luna, launched last year and hit number two on the Billboard charts. Currently the star is playing Esmeralda Cruz on the new telenovela La Gata, which is filmed in her home country and airs on Univision. The big, untamed hairstyle Perroni wears on the show gives fans a peek at a wilder side of the actress, which they haven't seen before. I got her to give me the scoop on that signature 'do and more.
You have such a distinct look as Esmeralda. What is the process of getting your hair like that?
It is a big and wild mane at the beginning, but at the end my look is much more sophisticated. For the wild look, the hairstylist braids my hair, then flatirons each braid before undoing it. My puffy hair adds drama to my character, but my hair suffers a lot!This routine must have consequences, but your hair is so shiny. We need your secrets.
My hair goes through so much during taping, but I really take care of it. When you're good to your hair, it shows. I try to wash it every day, and I use hydrating masks. On set, I insist on using products that protect my hair from heat styling.
Do you have any natural ingredients or recipes to take care of your hair?
My grandmother taught me a great trick of using tomato, or jitomate, as a mask. I mash it up and apply it all over my hair and scalp. I like to leave it on for a few hours when I'm spending a lazy weekend at home or even overnight. The jitomate really nourishes every strand and gives it super shine.
And what about your skin?
I love natural ingredients. For example, I make an exfoliator with coffee and a little bit of coconut oil. I use it all over my body. Almond oil is great for the skin too! It even removes makeup.
Let's talk about your makeup routine. What products do you use consistently?
Well, my makeup always starts with lots of mascara. I don't wear heavy makeup when I'm not working, but I never leave home without my sunblock, a light foundation, pink blush, and a natural gloss. I also like bronzers for a bit of shimmer. That's my everyday look. If I'm going to a party or event, I wear red lipstick.
With such a tough work schedule, how do you stay healthy and keep your energy up?
I follow an alkaline diet. I balance my food, and I drink lots of green detox juices. I never drink coffee. For snacks, I eat raw almonds and apples, and I try to avoid sugar when I'm at work. But on the weekends? It's time for fun! I treat myself to pizza or ice cream.
And for exercise what's your workout routine?
I love skating! As a little girl I dreamed of becoming a champion skater. I can go anywhere I want with my Rollerblades; I can run, jump, climb. It's so much fun and a great way to exercise!
Do you have any exciting travel plans once the show wraps up in a few months?
Yes! As soon as I'm done, I will travel again to promote my album. I adore Riviera Maya in Mexico and Punta del Este in Uruguay.
Follow beauty expert Kika Rocha on Twitter @KikaRochaModa.