Vanity Break is an interview series where trailblazing women give a sneak peek into their beauty and wellness routines. Because taking care of yourself isn’t vain — it’s vital.
In a world where plenty of digital influencers and content creators allow their success to inflate their ego, Kelly Augustine remains down-to-earth and a breath of fresh air. I learned about her a few years ago while listening to an episode of the podcast Joblogues. In the episode, Kelly sounded like such a vibrant and relatable woman — I had to know more about her. Soon after, I visited her website and learned that her content is just as magnetic as she is. Kelly flawlessly creates content about everything from plus-size fashion to beauty and NYC lifestyle. She has a background in journalism, public relations, and marketing, and she’s been featured in publications such as Essence, Glamour, InStyle, and Self, just to name a few. Let’s get into her vanity break:
Walk me through your current skincare routine.
In the morning right after a shower, I spray Burt’s Bees Hydrating Mist, then I apply Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Juice. If I’m going outside, I also apply Supergoop Everyday Sunscreen. At night, I use Lauren Napier wipes, then I do an oil cleanse with One Love Beauty Vitamin B Enzyme Oil. I follow up with Tula Purifying Cleanser (I like my skin squeaky clean, haha). I then use Sunday Riley UFO Acne Oil.
You’ve been very transparent about your skincare journey—the beauty and the breakouts. What advice do you have for someone who’s experiencing skin issues that are taking a toll on their self-esteem?
My advice is to take it a day at a time and don’t let it get you down. I went through a really rough self-esteem period, so I know how it feels. You just have to try to be calm about it — as hard as that may be — because stress makes it worse. The first step in all of it is to make sure your skin is clean, you’re drinking water, and you’re getting rest (on clean pillowcases of course!).
What are your must-have purse essentials?
I can’t leave the house without Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, Skin Buttr 2 oz. in Pomango, and a NEST Rollerball in Black Tulip.
You’ve been natural for more than 10 years. What practices and products have helped you stay the course? I don’t have a guidebook for my natural journey. I just make sure I use loads of conditioner and I stopped using shampoo years ago!
In the past you mentioned that anyone who’s in a relationship with you has to be able to accept your “extra” personality. What has helped you embrace all aspects of who you are unapologetically?
I think understanding that we only have one life to live has helped me tremendously on my journey of self-love. We literally don’t have time to waste worrying about things!
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All photos of Kelly courtesy of kellyaugustine.com