The Beauty in Bartending: Meet Tracia Chan of Dissolved Solids

Welcome to ‘The Beauty in Bartending’, a five-part series featuring a quintet of Malaysia’s leading female bartenders, who dish on their careers and beauty routines. Why beauty? Because who knows more about long-lasting makeup looks more than these powerhouses who spend long hours shaking up a storm behind the bars. In this read, we get to know Tracia Chan of Dissolved Solids. 

For Tracia Chan, the notion of honing in on a single strength simply doesn’t exist. This powerhouse has made a name for herself simply by having a phenomenal palate. Whether you’re in the market for a well-balanced cocktail, a complex cup of coffee, or even an elaborate tea-based drink, Chan is the one to depend on. Her work hasn’t just put her in the driver’s seat at a few of the city’s leading cocktail and coffee establishments. It has also brought her across borders to showcase her craft and sharpen her skills … and we know that makeup stays put even on her redeye flights.

In this interview series, we’re taking our conversations one step further by asking our tipple talents about their beauty routines and self-care regimens that get them through the demanding hours. Read on to find out more about how Chan carries herself through her many jobs and achieves her bold bar looks.    

At what point did you realize you wanted to be a bartender/could do this for a living?

After taking part in a bartending competition during my college years, I managed to land a part-time job at a bar. After looking into the industry and gaining a deeper understanding of it, I realised it was the more sustainable route to take within the F&B industry compared to one in the kitchen. And by that I mean there are less perishable items on the bar side of things like alcohol and syrups.

What is one responsibility most people don’t know about when it comes to bartending?

It isn’t a glamorous job and it requires you to be present in every department from washing dishes to scrubbing the toilet bowls. It’s also not just about making drinks, but the overall responsibility of taking care of customers and being able to work with a team to support each other. 

How do you get guests to keep coming back to your bar?

Giving them a personalised experience as well as shifting our focus towards customisation. We try to understand what customer’s preferences are and at the same time play an educational role for them to also learn what they like and don’t like. 

What is your mantra when it comes to the bartending profession?

Clean as you go. Be as refined as possible and take note of the finer details. A little goes a long way. 

Would you agree that bartending has become a boys club and how has that impacted your career?

I would say that back then many would have thought it was a boys club. But as it’s been growing, there have been more and more women in the industry and many have respect for each other in their strengths. I also must note that I was supported by many male figures in the industry and it did not impact me in the way some would have imagined.

What’s one piece of advice you have for young women looking to join the industry?

Definitely be strong physically and mentally as it requires long hours of hard work. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, an open mind will take you far. You will be able to see a bigger picture that might inspire you to be more creative and set yourself apart, which will  then reflect in your craft as you make it your own.

Shoutout your three favourite bars to visit as a guest in KL!

Coley, Soluble Solids, and Pahit.

What are your best tips for long-lasting beauty beat behind the bar?

Moisturise your face before putting on your make up because it will be a long night. I’d prefer having something lightweight on the skin so you can go bold on the eyes. 

What is your go-to hairstyle for work? How do you stay cute and F&B-friendly?

I like to tie my hair and tuck it underneath my collar for a flat and neat hairdo that still lets me leave my hair long. I do put my hair into a high ponytail on some days too. As long as your hair does not get into the drinks, it’s all good. 

What are your must-have beauty products for every shift? 

Blush, highlighter, eyeliner and false lashes.

How do you cope with the challenging sleep schedule?

I try to take naps whenever I can, wherever I may be.

What’s the first thing you do when you get back home from a long shift?

Shower and sleep!

Find the rest of ‘The Beauty in Bartending’ series here.