Actress Maxine Eigenmann is on Instagram usually in slinky attire. After all, her Instagram account is called @slinkymax. But it took a while for the actress to come to terms with her body. She was plagued with insecurities.

“I didn’t always love my body,” she says. “I had, and still have, many insecurities.”

Max talks about her work, her body and her take on trends.

You just completed a film which launches in August, right?

“We Will Not Die Tonight,” directed by Richard Somes, is about a group of friends who would stop at nothing to survive a night against an opposing gang. Action packed! It comes out between Aug. 15 and 21 for Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino.

How is this different from your previous projects?

This is my first action film ever!

Is acting your primary job? Do you see yourself sticking it out and doing this for the foreseeable future?

Acting is definitely my primary job. But not everybody knows that my ultimate passion is cooking. Hopefully, one day I can pursue that together with acting.

Show biz is in your blood since your family has been in the business for decades. What was the worst thing about growing up in this industry?

Expectations. And being compared to other family members.

And what’s the best?

Being part of a family that is well respected in the industry.

 

Do your kids see themselves joining the business?

My eldest one sometimes says he’d like to try it out when he’s older. The little one hasn’t shown interest yet. I’d support them if they chose to do so, but I want them to definitely concentrate on school first.

You’re known for dressing sexy, embracing your body. Was this always your style? How has it evolved over the years?

It has definitely not always been this way. It’s been a journey of ups and downs . . . I didn’t always love my body. I had, and still have, many insecurities. But I’ve learned to embrace those things and be comfortable with who I truly am. Appreciating and loving that person is what makes me feel sexy and confident.

How did you get to this point?

By focusing on my strengths rather than my weaknesses.

What was the turning point?

Honestly, when my dad passed away, I realized that life is too short to beat myself up over what other people think or say about me. I’ve learned to choose my battles, filter my circle, and take more care of my body. In turn, all these changes just led to a better mindset.

What advice do you have for girls—or even women—who are still coming to terms with their own bodies?

You are beautiful. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Life is what you make of it. Take the wheel and steer your ship, and embrace the journey of becoming the best version of yourself.

Do you believe in trends?

No.

Is there a trend you wouldn’t touch with a 10-foot pole?

Kitten heels. They make legs look short and I can’t seem to walk properly in them.

You have great skin. What’s your skincare regimen?

Céleteque facial wash, sunscreen and night serum. The occasional facial and diamond peel.

What skincare products are you obsessed with right now?

Healthy Glow booster serum and antibacterial whitening deo spray by One Earth Organics.

What about makeup?

I could never live without my Helena Rubinstein concealer, Maybelline mascara and Urban Decay eyeliner.

Whose vanity would you like to raid?

Nicole Asensio. That woman has impeccable taste in everything. Especially makeup.