Sonia Sui, 32

The Taiwanese model-actress was in town last month to launch contact lens brand Bausch + Lomb's first cosmetic lenses, Naturelle.

She is best known for her leading role as Xie An Zhen in the Taiwanese drama, The Fierce Wife, in 2010.

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

Bobbi Brown's Pot Rouge For Lips And Cheeks in Fresh Melon ($42). It moisturises my lips and makes me look livelier.

I also cannot do without a tin of Mentholatum Balm to keep my lips from peeling. I like the minty flavour.

Which is the one grooming service you cannot do without?

I go to Flux Collection Hair Boutique (No. 263, Section 1, Dunhua South Road, Daan District, Taipei) to dye my hair and get treatments done.

The colourists there have a knack for giving my hair a colour that suits my complexion.

What is your favourite perfume?

Chloe Eau De Parfum ($144 for 50ml, from Robinsons Raffles City).

I love the scent because it feels comfortable and warm on my skin. I do not like perfumes that smell too sweet or feminine.

I own about 30 bottles of perfume and most of them have fresh, green and woody accords.

Which to you is the best beauty invention?

The Bausch + Lomb Naturelle lenses ($68 for 30 lenses, from Capitol Optical, 03-08 Raffles City). They make my eyes look naturally brighter and wider even when I do not have any make-up on.

I have been wearing these lenses since I became the brand ambassador about a year ago. Even when I spend long hours on the set - sometimes up to 24 hours - my eyes will not become red or dry.

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

When I was in Guangzhou six months ago, I tried a caviar facial that cost about $1,500. My complexion looked good and radiant for two days.

A client who engaged me for a job paid for it; I would not have paid so much for a facial.

To keep myself looking good, I drink enough water, I exercise and I do not eat cold stuff such as ice cream so that my body is in balance and healthy.

What is the best beauty tip anyone has given you?

A make-up artist taught me how to make a red bean drink that will help get rid of water retention and keep my body warm.

Boil a handful of red beans in a litre of water. Just before the beans split, turn off the fire. Throw away the beans and keep the water.

I drink three litres of this every day. My complexion is clear and I do not feel cold easily

Get a copy of The Straits Times or go to straitstimes.com for more stories.