By Georgie Gordon
Model and actress Jessica Gomes can now add beauty entrepreneur to her repertoire with the launch of her range, Equal Beauty.
The 32-year-old, who walked in her first fashion show for David Jones when she was 18 and was named brand ambassador in 2013, flew into Sydney to launch the range and show off some of her favourite looks for Sunday Life.
The Eurasian beauty – her mother is Singaporean Chinese and her father Portuguese – has had a hugely successful modelling career in Asia and featured eight times in Sports Illustrated's swimwear issue.
Born in Sydney and raised in Perth, she now lives in LA with her actor boyfriend, Xavier Samuel. Her film roles include Transformers: Age of Extinction and the not-yetreleased Once Upon a Time in Venice, starring Bruce Willis.
Tell us about Equal Beauty.
I wanted to create a skincare range that was easy to use when I was travelling, and for me the key things are hydration and protection. I also really loved the idea of creating a range that was for men and women.
Why did you look to South Korea when doing your research?
I have worked with a lot of beauty brands there and I found their technology for skin care was very cutting edge.
What's your beauty routine?
It is very simple: I cleanse my face, I hydrate my face with a great serum, the Equal Beauty Super Serum. I protect my face with Super Mist Spray, an anti-pollution spray which is great for travelling in Asia and big cities.
Best beauty tip?
Keep your skin very clean just as you would your teeth, and always take off your make-up at night.
What is the best thing about your role at David Jones?
When I first started modelling in Australia, they were the first ones who brought me on board. I'm really proud to be the face of David Jones because they really took a chance on having someone with such a diverse background front the brand. It's been lovely to pave that way for other ethnic women in Australia.
There have been stories of wedding plans, do you have any update?
I'm so busy I couldn't even think about that at the moment. It's been so nice to have a solid personal life among all the craziness.
What do you love about living in LA?
It's a great place for me to be based because I am doing a lot more film work. I love being surrounded by creative people in the film industry. I also love the lifestyle … being able to get up in the morning and go for a hike or drive to the beach.
What are your acting ambitions?
The sky's the limit. I am open to what opportunities come up.
Equal Beauty is stocked exclusively by David Jones.
Photography Hugh Stewart, Stylist, Penny McCarthy, Hair & make-up Aimie Fiebig using Tom Ford, Fashion assistant Nichhia Wippell.