The makeover fairy

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When it comes to her own looks, beauty expert Ambika Pillai doesn’t depend too much on makeup but many filmstars, fashionistas and models swear by the Delhi-based diva’s beauty regime. One of the most sought-after hair stylists and make-up artistes in India, Ambika says, “Deepika Padukone, Bipasha Basu and many other celebrities are my regular clients.”

The glitterati flock to her especially for her products which they think suit the Indian skin very well.
It has been an exciting journey for Ambika, who was born and brought up in in the pristine landscape of Kerala, but has chosen to settle down in the capital city where she owns a chain of salons. Ambika says, “I wouldn’t have achieved all that I have today had I stayed back in Kerala. I love the place. Kollam is where I am from and I frequently visit the place but I am still considered an alien in my family,” says Ambika who comes from a traditional family where something like hairstyling is not a common choice of career.
Ambika was associated with the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week among many other international fashion events and is currently gearing up for the next big one —Bridal Season — which will keep her engaged for the next four to five months. “During the event, my work starts early in the morning and goes on till very late, looking after the top models.”
During off-season, she loves to stay back home, relax and watch movies. “Delhi is a vibrant city and I have a lot of friends here. So my phone is usually ringing through the day with people calling me to extend invitations to parties and get-togethers. But nowadays, I try staying home as much as I can,” she says adding that she’s not the party person that she used to be.
She is known for twisting and turning tresses into the most fashionable hairdos, but when it comes to her own hair, she like its simple, short and curly. “It’s my traditional Malayali hairstyle. People feel it’s very trendy and fashionable,” she says before breaking into laughter.
Ambika says that off late, she has been getting a lot of calls from her home state Kerala, where the beauty scene is gradually picking up. “People there have started giving beauty and grooming its due importance. They are getting conscious of their looks and hair,” she says adding, “I might think of starting a franchise in Kerala as well but not very soon.” For now, she wants to concentrate on her work in Delhi before she can take on any more challenges elsewhere.