You’ve probably stumbled upon the works of fx.cat on Instagram – where she showcases her best work of special effects makeup and unique looks that she created.
Hello Neb! Tell us more about yourself!
Hi! I’m Neb Radzif, a.k.a FX Cat. I’m a self-taught body painter and special effects makeup artist. I love creating! I love experimenting with new stuff and exploring new skills. I illustrate, too, on the side.
Neb underneath all her special effects makeup!
Why the pseudonym fx.cat?
Anybody who knows me well enough knows that i am obsessed with cats! When I first created another instagram account, i want it to be solely focused on my love for body arts and special effects, thus the “fx” in FX.CAT.
When did you first discover makeup?
Growing up, I was never into makeup at all. But, a few years ago, a friend of mine introduced me to face painting. I was hooked instantly! I started learning new techniques and experimenting with looks until a point where I thought it wasn’t enough. So I challenged myself to create full on fantasy and character makeup. That was when I fell in love with it. From there, I kept on exploring the world of makeup; special effects, beauty, etc. Funnily enough, I still don’t like caking my face up on a daily basis haha. I like to put on makeup to make a statement, to convey messages!
What is a typical day in your life?
My typical day if i’m not on the job would consist of me munching most of the time, illustrating my heart out onto my sketchbook, brainstorming for new makeup looks and actually make it happen if i’m up for it, and most importantly annoying my cats.
Do share with us your beauty regime! We are in love with your flawless skin!
Aw, thank you! I currently just settled on a fixed regime. I cleanse using COSRX Good Morning cleanser, tone using apple cider vinegar (this stuff is magical!), hydrate using Hada Labo Gokujyon lotion and moisturize using just aloe vera gel. I’m trying to get rid of these little scars on my skin so sunscreen is really important! I’m currently using Bioré UV Aqua Rich Essence and I love how it works so well with my oily skin. I usually exfoliate when I put on layers of makeup and paint on my skin and my favorite would be the St. Ive’s Green Tea Scrub.
Name 3 of your favourite beauty products that you can’t live without.
Urban Decay Naked Skin Concealer, M.A.C Studio Fix Powder and lipstick in “Persistence”. My go-to essentials!
What apps/software do you use to edit your pics?
I use Phonto to sneak in my watermark and then just edit everything else using the Instagram editor.
Do you have any local beauty idols?
I don’t really idolize any beauty celebrities but I do adore loads of local makeup artists. My favorite beauty MUA is Nad Ismail. Her works are subtle but polished, timeless and she never overdoes it. My favorite local SFX MUA is Ella Sandera. I would kill for the opportunity to work with her!
Any advice for aspiring MUAs out there?
Never stop learning. Never think you’ve known enough. Never limit yourself. Those are my number one mantras. I cringe and laugh everytime I look back at my works when I first started, but make practice your bestfriend and passion your drive, and you’ll stand right where you want to be!
Who is your all time inspiration in life?
My parents. Growing up, I witnessed them going out of their way and thinking out of the box to give us the best lives they could provide. They’re the most creative people I’ve ever met and the most supportive couple, and I strive to be just like them.
What is the ideal weekend for you?
A fully-booked weekend!
Girl, we totally love your Instagram feed! What equipment do you use?
Thank you! I only use my Galaxy A5 phone camera at the moment though. I made a DIY ring light out of led strips to enhance my lighting and use instagram editing tools for my photos.
Tell us what makes you smile the most?
Kindness. Cheesy, I know. But seeing strangers helping another out, or or my mom who hates my cat actually feeding my cat, really makes my day.
Where do you see yourself in 2 years’ time?
I hope to be working in my own studio with my partner-in-crime. And married to my partner-in-crime.
Do you have a life motto?
I’ve failed countless times and lost too many times because i thought i’d failed to meet other people’s expectations. And i crawled back to my true purposes everytime I say to myself, “Screw it, just let it out and make it happen.”
