Muse: Hira Mani
Photography: Waqar Ahmed Butt
Outfit: Mohsin Naveed Ranjha
Jewellery: Sonica jewellers signature
Zunaira is the owner of Pakistan’s first medical spa, Picture Perfect. She is a licensed and certified permanent makeup and microblading artist with 6 years of experience. Trained in Dubai with PhiBrowsTM and BioTouchtm, she offers microblading, lash services, permanent makeup, and more to enhance your natural beauty and leave you feeling confident and radiant.
So Semi-Permanent makeup, that means we have to put less makeup on in the morning right? What inspired you to become a semi-permanent makeup artist?
Yes, semi-permanent makeup can definitely save time in the morning since it’s designed to last for an extended period. As for what inspired me to become a semi-permanent makeup artist, I’ve always been passionate about enhancing natural beauty and helping people feel confident in their own skin. The idea of providing a long-lasting solution that simplifies daily routines appealed to me, prompting me to pursue this career path.
Tell us a bit about your journey from learning, practicing and then introducing a medical spa in Pakistan.
My journey began as a certified SPMU artist trained by Biotouch and Phibrows UAE. I started by practicing my craft diligently, building my skills and reputation. As demand grew, I transitioned from a home-based studio to establishing a medical spa in Pakistan. It’s been a fulfilling journey of learning, growth, and realizing my entrepreneurial dreams.
Zunaira tell our readers what actually is a medical spa and What treatments are offered at your med spa?
A med spa is a facility that offers medical-grade cosmetic treatments and procedures in a spa-like environment. At Picture Perfect, we specialize in advanced aesthetic treatments like microblading, micropigmentation, facial rejuvenation, injectables, laser hair removal, and skin tightening. Our focus is on enhancing natural beauty and rejuvenating skin in a safe, personalized, and professional environment.
What’s the difference between a MedSpa and a salon?
A med spa offers medical-grade cosmetic treatments supervised by healthcare professionals, while a salon primarily provides hair, nail, and basic skincare services without medical oversight.
What are the four most in demand treatments at your salon?
At our clinic, the four most in-demand treatments are microblading, permanent hair extensions, laser hair removal, and injectables such as Botox and dermal fillers.
As we get to experience a very humid summer season tell us about 3 important treatments we all should go for?
In preparation for humid summers, consider three key treatments: BB glow for radiant skin, especially beneficial as it provides a semi-permanent foundation-like coverage, perfect for days when traditional foundation may not fare well in the humidity. Aqua Gold facial to minimize pores and rejuvenate, and Hair Botox for sleek, frizz-free hair. These treatments ensure skin and hair stay hydrated, radiant, and resilient in humid conditions.
How do you think acceptance has grown towards these procedures and semi permanent makeup in Pakistan?
Acceptance of semi-permanent makeup in Pakistan has surged due to global beauty trends, increased visibility on social media platforms, and the availability of skilled professionals offering these services. This growing acceptance reflects a broader understanding of the benefits these procedures offer in enhancing appearance and boosting confidence among individuals in Pakistan.
What is the difference between BOTOX®? and fillers?
Botox relaxes muscles to smooth out wrinkles caused by facial movements like smiling or frowning, while fillers plump up areas to reduce wrinkles from aging and volume loss.
Are MedSpa services expensive?
MedSpa services may have a higher price point due to the use of advanced technology, medical-grade products, and expertise involved. However, clients often find value in the quality and effectiveness of the treatments.
What are permanent cosmetics?
Permanent cosmetics involve implanting pigment into the skin to enhance facial features like eyebrows, eyeliner, and lips, mimicking the look of makeup for long-lasting results.
Tell us about two most important facials that brides and bridesmaids must get from your salon?
For brides and bridesmaids, our salon offers the HydraFacial and Glow Facial. The HydraFacial deeply hydrates and nourishes, while the Glow Facial exfoliates and brightens for a radiant complexion on the big day. These treatments ensure everyone looks stunning for the special occasion.
What are your future plans and do you plan to introduce some more services at your salon?
Our future plans for the med spa are quite exciting! We’re aiming to expand our services by introducing an Operating Theater (OT) for more intricate procedures. Additionally, we’re looking to collaborate with a plastic surgeon to offer a wider range of aesthetic treatments. Every new innovation in the field of beauty and aesthetics will find its place in our med spa !!!
Henna your salon, The Cutting Edge has marked its name in the beauty industry of both Pakistan and Dubai. How do you feel about it today?
The success of my brand brings a feeling of satisfaction, pride, and accomplishment. There is a sense of validation and recognition for all the hard work and dedication of the past 17 years. It drives me to work harder and do better. I’m grateful for the overwhelming response from the UAE market. It’s been a rewarding yet challenging experience so far and my aim is to make a mark amongst the top hairstylists of the world.
It has been a great learning experience to work out of my comfort zone and work in an extremely competitive market in Dubai.
What inspired you to become a hair and makeup artist?
Playing with hair has always intrigued me.
I was a 5-year-old when I first noticed that dolls’ hair could be coiffed. This hobby extended to my sisters and I would spend hours playing with their hair;
braiding it, brushing and trying different hairstyles.
Growing up I would go through my mother’s magazines and notice how impactful the hair is in a picture. I believe 70% of your look is how your hair is done. The first thing that grabs my attention is the hair, the colour, the style and everything related to it.
My mother opened her first salon when I was 19 years old and that’s how I got a platform to pursue my passion.
A brief overview of your experience as a hair stylist, including any specialized training or certifications you have received?
I started training in 2009 and have been working since then. Over the years, I have taken multiple courses from Toni and Guy, Singapore to learn different haircut techniques.
I started my colour training with Loreal Paris and I go there every year to learn new techniques and colour trends. I have also taken training from famous hair dressers like Mounir and Catherine Boden.
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest hair trends, styles, and techniques?
I am constantly studying and attending trainings(virtual and in person) to keep myself updated with the latest trends and techniques. I take courses every 2/3 months with different beauty academies and hair and makeup trainers.
Tell us about a challenging hairstyle or color request you have successfully executed? What made it challenging, and how did you achieve the desired result?
Oh Gosh! There are soo many but there is this one that I recall right now, a client came to me with repetitively box dyed ginger (orange) hair and requested for an ash shade. This is sometimes impossible to achieve in one sitting without damaging the hair. I managed to do it in one sitting without any damage and it took almost 6 hours to achieve the result.
Explain how you’d advise a young girl going for a makeup & hair look that’s both trendy and parent-approved
Please take care of your hair health and skin.
Invest in good hair and skin products. Trust me- healthy skin and hair doesn’t require a lot of makeup or hairstyling.
Tell me about three hair & makeup trends you’re a fan of.
- Korean lips. It gives a very raw tint to the lips, accentuating the pout.
- Curtain bangs are just soo much fun. Depending on your face shape and hair type, they contour your face and add that oomph factor.
- Feathered eyebrows- they add softness to your face
Which hair trend you think will be trending this summer’s season?
Copper gingers and very vibrant shades of rose copper are definitely back. Whether is a blend, balayage or highlights, the fiery shades are definitely the IT look for this summer.