Nastia Liukin is no stranger to keeping calm under pressure. The inspiring gold medalist, who tied the U.S. gymnastics record of five medals at one Olympic Game in 2008, is not only a celebrated athlete, but she is also a published author, sports commentator, aspiring actress, philanthropist and entrepreneur. (Check out her line of gymnastics equipment and apparel, all in her signature pink hue, here).
Despite all that she's up to, Liukin embraces a low maintenance approach to beauty, favoring minimal makeup, mucho moisturizer and multifunctional products that help her feel fresh and clean, without the hassle. As one of our beauty and wellness inspirations, we chatted with the 28-year-old to get the scoop on her daily beauty secrets, de-stressing tactics, and which new Peach & Lily product she cannot live without.
1. How do you care for your skin before and after a workout?
Before and after a workout I always make sure to wash my face. I really try not to work out in makeup, but sometimes I’m in between meetings or events so that makes it challenging. That being said I definitely prefer a fresh face in the gym.
2. What is your personal beauty philosophy?
Less is more! I do a lot of shoots and I commentate for NBC, so there are days I have a lot of makeup on. So, on a normal day without having to be on camera I really try not to wear much makeup to give it a rest. Water is also my key for me. I travel every single week, so I basically live on planes! Staying hydrated is super key for both my body, and also skin.
3. What is a beauty product that you can't live without? And why?
Probably moisturizer. Traveling so much and being in so many different
climates, my face sometimes reacts differently depending on the weather. I typically like to keep my routine consistent, but the one thing I always have to do is moisturize.
4. Any beauty hacks, tips or tricks you can share?
Water, water, and more water! Seriously this does wonders. I really have
to remind myself through out the day to continue drinking water. Also love a good jade roller, which helps roll out the inflammation and swelling. I keep mine in the freezer in between uses.
5. When it comes to handling stress, do you have any go-to strategies?
Taking deep breaths, hot baths, writing in my journal, and or talking it out. I
have found it so much better when I’m able to talk things out with someone I trust. Get to the root of what is causing the stress, and never be afraid to ask for help.
6. What is the first thing you do in the morning?
I drink a glass of hot or room temperature water with lemon. The, I'm onto my cup (or two) of coffee. I try really hard to not get on my phone right away in the morning, even though I am guilty to this at times. I love being able to take the first few minutes or even hour to myself, reading, writing, setting intentions for that day.
7. Can you share your thoughts on the Peach & Lily skincare collection? Which is your favorite and why?
I love the Lazy Day All-In-One Moisture Pads! Living on a plane and on the road, these are so amazing to just throw in my purse or carry on and not worry about bottles breaking etc.
8. What is a movie you can watch over and over again and not get sick of it?
The Holiday! I just absolutely love this movie and love the holidays. As soon as December 1st comes around, this is the first movie I play. However, I am guilty of also watching it in the summer. :)
9. What inspires you?
My family. My parents and my fiancé. They have all taught me to believe in
myself, my goals, and have always just loved me for me — not for what I do or don’t achieve.
10. What is the most memorable place you've traveled to?
I absolutely LOVE Asia. I competed at the Olympics in Beijing, so obviously
China holds some very special memories. I also loved Korea, and Japan. The next Olympics are in Tokyo, and I cannot wait to be back!
Follow Nastia on Instagram to learn more about her fitness, life and fashion hacks, as well as to get the scoop on her upcoming Be Grander Summit, which celebrates female leaders across various industries.