The 26-year-old American singer was a runner-up in the second season of talent contest The Voice. She performed here last weekend in support of the panda conservation campaign, Chengdu Pambassador 2012.

What is the one product you would not step out of the house without?

M.A.C Mineralize Skinfinish Natural face powder. It stays on for a long time, keeps my skin matte, hides my blemishes and gives my face a clean look. I've been using this for the past 10 years.

What is the one grooming service you can't do without?

A session at the home of my hairstylist, Jerilynn Stephens, once every two months in Los Angeles. I met Jerilynn (Jerilynnstephens.com) earlier this year backstage at The Voice and I like how she can change my hair colour drastically - such as from brown to blonde - in one sitting. I change my hair colour each time I see her because I like to be different. I'm thinking of turning my tresses a silver-pink next.

Jerilynn, who works from home, is also good at hair extensions.

Where do you go for other beauty treatments?

Marie Nails (Marienails.com) in Los Angeles. It is very popular and the nail technicians there can do all kinds of nail art.

I went there before the Batman: The Dark Knight Rises movie premiere in June and the nail technician gave me black Batman nails. Yellow Batman logos were painted on the nails of my thumbs while the others were shaped to look like Batman's mask with the pointy ears.

What is your favourite perfume?

Flowerbomb by Viktor & Rolf. It is sweet-smelling and makes me feel glamorous, which reminds me of my grandmother. She is always made-up and dressed up.

I've carried a small vial of this with me on this trip.

Which, to you, is the best beauty invention?

Even though it is more a fitness than beauty regimen, yoga makes me look good. I started practising it about five years ago and I do it every day for about an hour.

It adds colour to my face, makes my body look lean and gives me an aura and more stamina on stage.

I also love tattoos; I have about 20 of them. I got my first one - a treble clef on my left ankle - when I was 15. My mum accompanied me to the tattoo parlour and approved the design.

What is the most ridiculous thing you've ever done in the name of beauty?

A few months ago, I spent more than 12 hours in a salon - not with Jerilynn - and almost US$4,000 (S$4,889) to add extensions and turn my dark brown hair to blonde. It was the longest day of my life.

What is the best beauty tip anyone has ever given you?

My mum often reminds me to drink lots of water to stay hydrated and have clearer skin. Drinking two glasses of water before a meal also helps to curb one's appetite and aid digestion.

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