When Kenyan-born, Melbourne-based model and student Mercy Sang established People of Colour Collective (POCC) Magazine her hope was to champion people of colour working in creative fields where they are so often underrepresented. With her platform, Sang celebrates creatives across art, fashion, photography and film. 

She’s obsessed with skincare - she says so herself. Likes to wear minimal makeup but knows all the best products to achieve this. And when it comes to hiding a hangover? Well, sometimes you just have to hide behind large sunglasses. 

What is your morning beauty routine?

I always start my day with hot lemon water. I am obsessed with skincare. Always have been so I do admit that I sometimes go overboard.  I cleanse my face with the Dr. Dennis Gross Hyaluronic cleanser, followed by a witch hazel toner. I then use the Dr. Dennis Gross C+ Collagen Brighten + Firm eye cream. I use two serums; the Drunk Elephant Vitamin C serum during the day also paired with the Drunk Elephant B Hydra serum. I then follow that up with the Dr. Dennis Gross Ferulic and Retinol moisturiser. I always wear a facial oil. I switch between three; the Omorovicza Miracle Facial oil, the Sukin Organic Rosehip oil or the Sunday Riley Juno oil. I then always finish off with SPF, always.

I tend to wear minimal makeup. I definitely focus more on skin care. It has been nice to give my skin a break during quarantine. With makeup I use a NARS concealer or if I do use foundation I use the NARS Sheer Glow foundation. It’s not heavy and not matte so it leaves your skin glowing. I use the Glossier Boy Brow in brown as I don’t like my eyebrows dark or filled in weirdly. I am currently using the new Hourglass mascara but the Glossier mascara is quite good so is the NARS climax. I love the Glossier Cloud Paint blushes. I use it in the colour storm and lastly the NARS Illuminator in Orgasm. I love using the illuminators rather than the highlighters because they are so much more subtle and natural.

What is your night beauty routine?

I also have a quite extensive night beauty routine. To me it's somewhat of a ritual and how I wind down. I cleanse with the Dr. Dennis Gross Hyaluronic cleanser in the evenings I double cleanse with the Dermalogica Daily Micro exfoliant. I then apply my Dr. Dennis Gross C+ Collagen Brighten + Firm eye cream and follow that up with the Drunk Elephant Glycolic serum and the Drunk Elephant B Hydra serum. I use the Drunk Elephant A Passioni Retinol cream at night. I also use the Dermalogica Sleep Cocoon night moisturiser. It smells so good and also calming so it helps fall asleep a little easier. If I feel like my skin needs a bit more hydration I usually use the Drunk Elephant Electrolyte mask before following that up with a facial oil always. Either the Omorovicza Miracle Facial oil or the Sunday Riley Juno oil.

Describe what you do for a living? What does a typical day look like for you?

My days vary, I am the founder of POCC magazine which is a magazine that spotlights and champions POC creatives. I am also a student so on some days I would be attending my classes. I am also a model and some days I would be at work. 

What is the supermarket/ drug store/ chemist beauty product(s) that you use and love?

Avene Mineral Water Facial spray is my absolute favourite. I always have a mini one in my bag at all times. Perfect for flights, after a workout or if you just need to refresh your skin.

What is your main form of beauty body maintenance? What products do you use on your body?

I am currently using the Kiehl’s Creme de Corps Soy Milk & Honey Whipped body butter.

How do you keep fit/ healthy? Does exercise form a large part of your routine?

Exercise is a huge part of my routine. I try to exercise five times a week. Pre quarantine I would usually work out with my trainer and I also do kickboxing. I also really enjoy running. Like many it's beneficial to my mental health so I definitely try to ideally work out daily. I am also plant based. I have been for many years now.

What cosmetic procedures/ professional treatments do you have as part of your beauty routine?

I try to get a facial whenever I can.

What do you do when your body needs to recover?

Sleep! If anyone knows me they know I can sleep anywhere and anytime haha.

You’re tired/ hungover/ rundown: what is your beauty hack?

To stay hydrated, and sunglasses. 

What is the one non-negotiable in your beauty routine?

Sunscreen and retinol, I couldn’t choose.

Do you have a beauty icon? Who are they and why?

I don’t think I have a beauty icon. I'm definitely drawn to individuals who are their true selves.

What is the best advice on beauty you’ve received?

Hydration, hydration, hydration!

What is the best advice on health you’ve received?

Listen to your body.

What is the one product you can’t live without?

SPF!