Even Aparna Balamurali got stunned: Artist behind those brilliant makeovers

Tony Michael
Make-up artist Tony Michael. Photo provided by special arrangement

A novice would take some time to identify the photos of actresses Aparna Balamurali, Ahaana Krishna, Saniya Iyappan, Priya P. Varrier and Aditi Ravi that had appeared in Manorama Arogyam magazine. Because they look stunningly different in their makeover avatars. The photos not only exude their innate beauty but evoke mind-blowing aesthetic nuances as well.

Tony Michael, a make-up artist who is now based in Kochi, is behind them all. Drawn to the field of make-up at a very young age Tony embarked on a career in the art by assisting noted make-up artist Avinash Chetia. His first break in the field was his work with actress Rachana Narayanankutty. His journey thereafter was a remarkable one that saw dabbing faces of the likes from Sobhana to Anikha Surendran.

Aparna Balamurali
Aparna Balamurali. Image courtesy: Manorama Arogyam / Syam Babu

However, it's Tony's make-up stint with Sobhana that remains closest to his heart. "In fact all the artists I have worked with have been memorable, as each of them is down-to-earth unique personalities. But Sobhana stood apart, may be because she is a legendary actress I had so much dreamed about working with," says Tony.

As to what is the most significant aspect of the beautifying job that he has been engaged in for so many years, Tony has a wonderful answer. "It's the excitement and the reaction of the client after they have undergone the facelift. That is the most significant and gratifying part of the job," Tony says.

Ahaana Krishna
Ahaana Krishna. Image courtesy: Manorama Arogyam

Tony, who has the experience of working with Neha Dhupia, Lopamudra, Lara Dutta among others, had accompanied the renowned celebrity photographer Dabboo Ratnani when he was in Kerala.

Tony is on cloud nine as Aparna Balamuralai had called him up after seeing her photos in the magazine and appreciated his work.

Tony's most important tip for skincare is that one should start taking care of it as early as 20 years of age or even before.

Aditi Ravi
Aditi Ravi. Image courtesy: Manorama Arogyam

"It's painful to see people rushing to make-up studios in a bid to find solutions for a tan, dark circles, wrinkles and so on when they are are middle-aged," says Tony, "It will be really tough to find a solution at that stage."

Tony also says that it is important to know the skin undertone to follow a beauty regime. For example, if the skin has a peach undertone, following the turmeric skin regimen would make it darker still as oxidation would leave an adverse impact.

It's the healthy mind and positive thinking Tony would prescribe as the bedrock of any beauty regime. "It's the mental state of the person that overshadows any make-up. So, being cheerful is the first and foremost sign of beauty," Tony says. Drinking a lot of water, having six to eight hours of sleep, taking vitamin-rich food or supplements and intake of nutritious food can ensure a beautiful, charming and glossy skin,” Tony says.

Priya P. Varrier
Priya P. Varrier. Image courtesy: Manorama Arogyam

Besides, cleansing, toning and moisturising along with a measure of sun protection factor or SPF tablets on a daily basis and a weakly application of scrubbing, steaming and face-packs would enhance the glow of the skin.

"It is also important to ensure removal of blackheads at regular intervals as their larger accumulation would turn for the worse if left unattended for a long time," Tony says.

Saniya Iyappan
Saniya Iyappan. Image courtesy: Manorama Arogyam

"Above all, it's the happiest mind that owns the most beautiful face," Tony who is planning to set up a make-up studio in Bengaluru, signs off.

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