Christine Mielke interview

I am very excited to bring you this interview with the lovely Christine from Temptalia. She was one of the first beauty bloggers ever and 15 years later, it’s still going strong. Christine’s blog is one of my daily must-reads because of her amazing tips, fantastic product reviews, inspiring looks and great tutorials that will turn even a novice into an expert. Most importantly, she tells it like it is and is not afraid to give a bad review, even if it means upsetting a brand. I admire an influencer who doesn’t sell out (so rare these days). And, if for some reason, you haven’t heard of her blog yet, this is your chance to check it out. Read on to find out more about the talented and sweet Christine:

1. When and why did you start your blog?

I started Temptalia in October 2006 as a way to archive all of the looks I had done and planned to do in the future.

2. What is your favourite thing about blogging? And the least?

My favorite thing about blogging is the ability to interact with my readers. I love hearing their opinions, answering their questions, and just learning about them. I really can’t think of a least favorite part! Maybe that I can’t do it more often? 😉

3. What is the best thing that happened to you because of your blog, Temptalia?

The best thing that has happened to me is that I’ve learned where my passion lies–at least presently–and it’s so great. I love what I’m doing!

4. When did you first realize that you were beauty obsessed?

It started when I started college. I discovered MAC, and I fell in love from there!

5. How did you learn how to apply makeup?

Practice, practice, practice. Whenever people ask, the answer is really that simple. Just keep at it, and don’t be afraid to fail. Do crazy looks, try combos you didn’t think would work. You’ll learn what works, what doesn’t, and what’s just plain fun!

6. What is your daily skincare routine?

Because I’m constantly testing out new and different products, it really changes quite often. Currently, I use Dermalogica’s cleanser alternated with MAC’s Volcanic Ash Exfoliator for cleansing in the AM. I follow up with Clinique’s MoistureSurge cream. I’m testing out two eye creams (Elizabeth Arden’s Intervene & Bliss’s All About the Eyes), too. I use Dermalogica sunscreen to keep my face safe from the sun. In the PM, I use Renee Rouleau cleanser followed by the same eye creams, and then NARS’ Hydrating Cream.

7. Have you found your HG products yet? If so, what are they?

I’ve found a few, but not a lot. I love so many products, and there is always something new coming out to try, so I never end up loyal to a product. A few of my staples are MAC Mari-sheeno lipstick, Renee Rouleau’s AHA/BHA Cleanser, and NARS Hydrating Cream.

8. What are your favourite beauty brands?

I know people know me as a MAC girl, but I love lots of brands. I find it hard to keep up with (especially financially!) with tons of brands, which is why I still wear and have mostly MAC products. I’ve loved a lot of the products I’ve tried from Clinique, Estee Lauder, Lancome, NARS… Bliss is great for skincare, as is LUSH.

9. What’s in your makeup bag right now?

Nothing! I don’t keep a makeup bag. I only use my makeup bags when I travel 😉 In my purse, though, I have MAC Mari-sheeno lipstick and Cle de Peau’s #2 Gloss. I think I might have a tinted lip conditioner in my purse, too.

10. And finally, do you have any beauty secrets you can share?

The secret to looking good is feeling good. Even if my makeup is flawless, if I’m having a bad day or feel like crap, it’s still going to show through. It’s so important to take care of yourself from the inside out, and not just focusing on the outside. I don’t just mean eating right or exercising, I mean making yourself mentally fit and happy. Beauty is happiness 🙂

Thanks so much to Christine for this fantastic interview. Now make sure to go and check out Temptalia.