Inner Beauty with Alexis Ren & Sonya Dakar
Following the launch of her exclusive kit with facialist Sonya Dakar, Alexis Ren chats with BWB about skincare, self-love and soul-searching.
With a heart as big as her smile, Alexis Ren has cultivated a vast following across all platforms as a model, dancer and influencer. It’s worth noting, though, that we use the term “influencer” quite literally here. Whether it’s rebuilding the reefs in Tahiti with The Coral Gardeners or spreading mental health awareness through a music video, Alexis influences others with positive intent. As such, she continues to soak up life with plenty of growing, learning, and sharing with others.
Mindfulness has surely played a role in the model’s glowing skin, but her healthy complexion also comes from safe, natural beauty ingredients. In fact, Alexis has been a long-time client of LA-based facialist, Sonya Dakar. To honor their relationship, they launched the Anniversary Kit. This pack includes Alexis’s favorite clean beauty products from the brand. Sonya’s products are gentle on the skin and her expert innovation ensures efficacy.
Read on to learn how Alexis incorporates beauty and well-being in her life!
YOUR DAY
Morning routine?
First, I make my coffee before I even open my eyes. With each sip, I slowly come to life again. Then, I make my way to my bathroom, which is flooded with Sonya Dakar products. After I decide what my skin needs that morning, then I do my step-by-step routine starting with the Sensi Wash and ending with the Blue Butterfly Balm.
How you stay in shape?
I’ve learned the most important thing to staying in shape is mindset. When we can enjoy giving our body the movement it needs, we can rest peacefully at night. When we enjoy pushing through that pain, our bodies thank us with results. I move every day just like I like to learn every day. As humans, I believe we’re here to create – whether it be from movement or ideas. It’s all creation.
Go-to homemade meal?
Smoothie bowl and a kale salad.
YOUR BEAUTY
Makeup must-haves?
Ever since I really achieved my skin goals, I’ve cared less and less about the makeup I put on face. I usually just throw on Benefit’s Benetint Cheek & Lip Stain and CoverGirl mascara and call it a day. I’m so grateful I feel confident without makeup now.
Favorite Sonya Dakar product?
It’s a tie between the Blue Butterfly Balm and the Organic Omega Booster.
How you keep your skin in check while traveling?
I bring my travel-sized Sonya Dakar products and every couple of hours I go to a restroom to wash my face. Airports are full of bacteria, so I combat that with love.
YOUR SUMMER
Saturday ritual?
Anywhere I can get some sunshine and connect with ones I love.
Sunday run or relax?
Since being homeschooled, I’ve never put much thought into the difference between Sundays or Mondays or Thursdays… etc. They all blend together for me. It’s really just what my schedule looks like. Sometimes I’ll work all Sunday and treat my Monday like Sunday. I just never know, which I love.
Travel essentials for a weekend getaway?
Sensi Wash, Organic Omega Booster, Daily Shield, witch hazel toner, a bathing suit, a book, and my journal.
YOUR FEMININITY
What does it mean to you to be an empowered woman today?
Standing up for what makes your soul come alive and constantly expanding out of the box that society keeps putting you in. No more labels on what you are or what you do. BE what brings light to your eyes because this life is way too short not to live it for fear of living.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
It’s okay babygirl, better is on its way.
Know what you want, and let go of control of how you think you’ll get it – just trust that you will… And smile, god dammit.
Where do you see yourself and women across the world in 10 years?
Doing exactly what we’re doing right now… Just further along.
Saving our planet, raising our consciousness, forgiving ourselves and others, stepping into our own power, letting go of old programming (update that hard drive, pretty girl!) and believing that we can nurture earth into the heaven we so wish for it to be.
YOUR PHILOSOPHY
Who is your greatest mentor?
My mom.
Has social media helped or hindered you?
Both. It’s a paradox.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
“Always stay teachable, baby.” –Mom
Originally from Los Angeles, Alicia lived in Shanghai for 11 years before moving back to the states to attend the University of Miami, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in public relations and minors in art and philosophy. Currently residing in New York City, Alicia applies her knowledge of strategic communication and design in her career. She enjoys painting, rugby, exploring, and more often than not, you’ll find her petting someone’s dog.
Always stay teachable, baby.
”
