Turn up the glam with these DJ-approved long-lasting beauty picks

Farah Farz, @farahfarz

Credit: Farah Farz

1/5

Arguably one of the most recognisable faces in Singapore clubscene, 28-year-old Farah wows crowds with her mashups of varying genres — and her fearless and playful wardrobe.

Describe your makeup style
When performing, I definitely lean into false lashes, vibrant eyeshadow, and elaborate eye looks, complemented by generous blush and contour. The bright, and often harsh, stage lighting can be unforgiving, so I make sure not to look washed out or ghostly. Since I’m standing a considerable distance from the crowd, bold and visible makeup is essential. After all, if they can’t see it, did I even do it?

How do you ensure that your makeup lasts the night?
Setting spray, baby! My all-time favourite for the last seven years has been The Spray from a local brand Abduct Cosmetics. I honestly believe that it’s the unsung hero of makeup longevity. 

I avoid liquid foundation because – after a long day – it feels heavy on my skin and tends to add unwanted texture. Instead, I absolutely adore powder foundations! My top two picks are MAC Studio Fix Powder Foundation and Make Up For Ever HD Skin Matte Powder Foundation. These products do an excellent job of keeping my skin from getting too oily – the last thing I want is to feel sticky – that’s a sensation I’d rather reserve for the dance floor!

If you’re using mascara, opt for waterproof formulas. To prevent under-eye smudges, gently dab a bit of powder underneath.  

When it comes to lipstick, here’s my secret for long-lasting wear: First, I powder my lips, apply lipstick, dab with a tissue, add a second layer, finish with lip gloss, and seal the look with setting spray.  

Not only does this minimise touch-ups, but when using the NARS Powermatte Lip Pigment, it doubles as a lip stain! Even after indulging in food and drinks, my lips still look effortlessly fabulous.

Your beauty must-haves?  
I usually carry just a few essentials in my micro Beyond The Vines bag, which, surprisingly, can hold quite a lot. I always pack my Mac Studio Fix Powder Foundation because a flawless finish is non-negotiable. Nars Powermatte Lip Pigment in American Woman is another must-have – it’s super long-lasting and doesn’t dry out my lips (a total win). I also bring Kosas Lip Oil Gloss, which is both pigmented and non-sticky, and The Ordinary Lip Balm to keep my lips hydrated and happy.

Tips on removing all traces of makeup? 
I reach for Bifesta cleansing sheets – these little wonders are incredible at removing everything from glitter eyeshadow to eyelash glue and waterproof makeup. They make it all disappear like magic! Plus, they’re oil-free – making them perfect for use with eyelash extensions. For my facial cleanser, I’m currently using the Dr. Dennis Gross AHA/BHA Daily Cleansing Gel.

Your after-work beauty routine?
My post-work beauty routine is a sacred ritual. After removing my makeup and cleansing my face, I apply the Glow Recipe Niacinamide Dew Drops Serum. On days when I’m not feeling lazy or too tired, I use a gua sha tool on my face before moving on to the Caudalie Vinohydra Moisturiser – my current obsession. It has transformed my desert-dry skin into a supple oasis, leaving it brighter and smoother. Finally, I apply the Mario Badescu Lip Mask because I simply can’t sleep without moisturising my lips.

Serene Ong, @durio.rene

Credit: Serene Ong

2/5

As part of ATTAGIRL!, an all-female collective of DJs, Serene has helped fly the Singapore flag internationally, performing in parties and festivals held in Singapore, Malaysia and Japan.

Describe your makeup style
Always go big on the eyes! I love having strong and dark brows, as well as eyeliner. 

How do you ensure that your makeup lasts the night?
My makeup routine begins with applying Empro Spacelift Face Booster as a makeup base. Later, I use it as the final step to set my makeup. I apply Skintific Cover All Perfect Cushion on my face, Maybelline Hypersharp Extreme Liner on my eyes, and Benefit 24-Hour Brow Setter on my brows.

What do you use for touch-ups?
On days when I have several gigs, I’ll bring my cushion foundation, blusher and contour for touch-ups.

Tips on removing all traces of makeup? 
I’ve been using the same Biore Mild Cleansing Liquid for many years! I love its gel-like texture, and it effectively removes waterproof eyeliner and mascara. I occasionally try different cleansers, and currently, I’m using Scentio Milk Facial Foam. After cleansing, I apply a sheet mask, followed by a night serum, and finish with an LED face and neck massager.

Amanda Keisha Ang, @akasounds

Credit: Amanda Keisha Ang

3/5

Also known as DJ A/K/A, 39-year-old Amanda is recognised as one of the first few females to rule the decks at clubs in Singapore. Notably, she’s performed at numerous parties including the Chanel Cruise Show in Singapore last year, and she was one of the three female representatives of Singapore at the Boiler Room in July 2024 — while she was six months pregnant. 

Describe your makeup style
My usual makeup style is natural and understated. I prefer warm colours, so my go-to look includes simple skin coverage, rosy and orange tones on my eyes and cheeks, and a tinted lip product.  

However, if I’m performing at a big corporate event where plenty of photos will be taken, I opt for more coverage on my skin and bolder eyes and brows to ensure my makeup stands out on stage.

How do you ensure that your makeup lasts the night?
I follow my usual daytime skincare routine and use makeup primers and a setting spray before applying my makeup. I intentionally choose long-lasting products because I have oily skin, and makeup tends to fade quickly throughout the day. Applying a cheek tint before my powder blush helps enhance the colour and improves its adherence!

Your beauty must-haves?
My holy grail is the Urban Decay All-Nighter Setting Spray – it’s perfect for preventing my makeup from melting. When I need my makeup to be more heavy-duty, I use Urban Decay primers for my face and eyes before applying my makeup. 

I don’t believe in spending too much on makeup – it tends to run out quickly since I use it almost every day – and I love finding great drugstore deals. Some of my favourites include Make Up For Ever HD Skin Waterproof Matte Foundation, Urban Decay Naked Eyeshadow Palette, Joycee Glazed Rouge Lipstick, Pixi Beauty Sheer Cheek Gel, and Ettusais Eye Edition Waterproof Mascara Base Liquid.

What do you use for touch-ups?
They include a concealer, such as Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles + Treatment, which is perfect for adding extra coverage where makeup has worn off and brightening the under-eye area.  

For blush, I pack Pixi Beauty Sheer Cheek Gel. It’s easy to layer with your fingers to build the desired intensity of cheek colour. For my lips, I use Rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint – it lasts a long time, even after eating, and feels incredibly light!

Tips on removing all traces of makeup? 
I typically use a micellar water makeup remover before cleansing. My favourite is from Bifesta because it works quickly and leaves my skin feeling clean. My go-to facial cleanser is Kiehl’s Calendula Face Wash.

Your after-work beauty routine?
After removing my makeup and cleansing my face, I apply Pixi Glow Tonic as a toner, Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair serum while using Medicube Age-R Booster H, and Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream. I use a facial mask – either an overnight or sleeping, clay or paper mask – about twice a week.

Jovynn, @itsjovynn

4/5

Jovynn might have only picked up DJ-ing during the pandemic but she’s since garnered a massive following of 10.8 million TikTok followers and over 981,000 Instagram followers who love her mixes of acapellas with trending tunes. 

Describe your makeup style
I wear the same makeup look whether I’m on stage or running errands. I’m not sure what it’s called, but it might resemble an alternative makeup style. I started wearing makeup in my youth, experimenting with each product and learning every step. Over the years, it naturally evolved into the routine I use today.

How do you ensure that your makeup lasts the night?
I don’t usually finish my makeup with a setting spray because it tends to stay on even after a long day. For eyeshadow, I use the YSL Beaute Mini Clutch Eyeshadow Palette and layer it under a liquid liner I picked up from Target.

If you want your lipstick to last longer, apply a heavy-textured lip gloss over it. For eyeliner, choose one that is highly pigmented and waterproof.

Your beauty must-haves?
The only makeup product I carry with me everywhere is YSL Beaute Loveshine lipstick – it’s the only thing that requires frequent touch-ups, as my face makeup stays perfectly in place! My other makeup must-haves are primer, eyeliner, contour, eyeshadow, and false lashes.

Tips on removing all traces of makeup? 
I cleanse my face with the Fenty Skin cleanser, it has been my favourite for years. It doesn’t irritate my skin at all, and it’s easy to use! One wash, and my makeup’s all gone.

Your after-work beauty routine?
I’d cleanse my face in the shower, and use the Creme De La Mer to moisturise before going to bed.

Ashley Kiara, @kiaraofficial._

Credit: Ashley Kiara

5/5

Specialising in house and electronic dance music (EDM), Ashley has performed at many parties including Longchamp’s Fall Winter 2024 event. Besides live gigs, she also shares her viral mashups on TikTok where she’s amassed a whopping 7.6 million likes and counting. 

Describe your makeup style
On a regular day, I keep my makeup minimal. However, as a performer – with all the flashing lights and photos – I go a bit heavier to add colour to my face. Foundation, eyeshadow, contour, lipstick, and eye makeup are essentials for me – they help define my features and prevent me from looking washed out under the lights.

How do you ensure that your makeup lasts the night?
I rely on Nars concealer, eyeshadow palette, and translucent powder – they’re affordable and deliver a polished, long-lasting look. For all-night hold, I use the Urban Decay All-Nighter Setting Spray – it’s a lifesaver. For my brows, I use brown eyeshadow – it matches my hair and keeps them natural yet defined. DoroLab eyelashes are also my go-to – the adhesive is strong and keeps them securely in place.

Always set your foundation before heading out – it’s essential for preventing sweat from melting it away. Keep eyelash glue on hand if you’re wearing falsies, and use an all-nighter setting spray along with translucent powder. Don’t forget to touch up your lipstick to ensure you don’t look washed out!

Tips on removing all traces of makeup? 
I start with Shu Uemura’s cleansing oil – it effortlessly melts away heavy makeup and doubles as a cleanser. If my makeup is particularly heavy, I follow up with a second cleanse using The Ordinary Glucoside Foaming Cleanser. Next, I apply the Laneige Water Sleeping Mask for hydration – and use Medicube toner before moisturiser – to keep my skin balanced.

Your after-work beauty routine?
My secret is coconut water – it’s incredible for rehydration! After a night out, I head straight to the fridge for some coconut water to replenish my hydration. Then, I shower, remove my makeup, and check any important messages. It’s a nice moment to reflect on the night before winding down for sleep.