Han Hyo Joo, 26

First discovered in 2003, the South Korean actress got noticed with her role as an entrepreneur in the romantic drama, Brilliant Legacy, in 2009.

She became an A-list star after playing a palace maid in the South Korean period drama Dong Yi the following year.

Han was in town last month for the gala premiere of the South Korean movie, Cold Eyes, at the Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands.

She plays a policewoman in the action film. Han is also the face of Johnson & Johnson's 1-Day Acuvue Define contact lenses.

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

Lip balm. My lips become dry and crack easily. I don't have a particular favourite. I'm currently using an organic rose-scented one from a German pharmacy brand but I can't remember its name.

What is the one grooming service you cannot do without?

I visit a women-only aesthetics and spa salon in the Gangnam area in Seoul about once a week for my facial treatments. As an actress, it is important for me to have translucent skin.

What, in your opinion, is the best beauty invention?

Johnson & Johnson's 1-Day Acuvue Define contact lenses. They offer UV protection for my eyes and make them look brighter. Before I was introduced to the Acuvue Define lenses, I'd heard of UV protection only for the skin, so I was impressed.

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

I was an ordinary, shy and quiet girl in school. So I've never really done anything ridiculous. But I remember that when I was in my early teens, coloured contact lenses started to become really popular. I ate cold noodles every day for a month to save up for a pair of brown-coloured ones. When my mother found out, she scolded me and threw the lenses away.

What is the best beauty tip anyone has given you?

My mother does not wear much make-up; only BB cream, as she believes that natural beauty is the best. I'm influenced by her.

Which is your favourite perfume?

I love perfumes. I have about 15 bottles at home. I prefer scents that are not too sweet, feminine and overpowering. My current favourite is Jo Malone's Nectarine Blossom & Honey Cologne ($97 for 30ml). When I'm acting, I usually wear a perfume that helps me get into the mood. In Cold Eyes, I play a boyish policewoman, so I wore a unisex scent during filming.

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