Here are the skincare and self-care rituals getting them through their next phase.
– KEYS SOULCARE
Loving yourself is no easy task. With a society built on gender roles and restrictive aesthetics, it can be hard to show up authentically. But lightworkers like Ivan Lam are daily reminders that learning to love who we are is a soulful — and necessary — journey.
The beauty creator has grappled with limits placed on them and has generously shared their skin story online and offline. Today, Ivan is catching us up on recent transformations, skincare favorites, and travel must-haves that keep him balanced and intentional as he continues to walk his own path.
WHAT IS THE THEME OF THIS CHAPTER OF YOUR LIFE?
Transformation. Not a sudden, abrupt one but a gradual process of accepting who I am and who I’m supposed to be. So much of my life was centered around pleasing the people around me or society’s standards, and now I [center] my own values. Coming from an immigrant family, this sometimes isn’t the easiest, but it’s worth it.
“Your career and your partner might only sometimes be there, but one thing you can count on is your relationship with yourself.” — Ivan Lam
HOW DO YOU OWN YOUR SKIN AND POWER?
I am being more intentional with my time and energy, learning to say no, and exiting social situations when I feel like it. I’ve learned to love my features with time. When I was younger, I always wanted straighter hair and bigger epicanthic folds (eyelids), but now I love how I look. I fully embrace my features because they remind me of my parents! And that’s important to me.
I’ve also learned to release expectations in my life and from others. I’ve recently traveled solo to Korea with no set schedule or itinerary, and the trip turned out to be freeing and relaxing.
WHAT WAS IN YOUR SKINCARE TRAVEL BAG?
Always a toothbrush — that’s a first! I usually have a travel-sized cleanser and a moisturizer for dryness. Also, the Comforting Balm is a must-have for my cuticles and lips.
WHAT PRODUCT OFFERINGS ARE TURNING YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE INTO A RITUAL?
I love skincare-infused makeup — product offerings that feel feather-light on the skin and let your skin shine through. Using the Let Me Glow Illuminating Priming Face Serum as a makeup base has been great for glowing, dewy skin. I also mix it with a foundation for extra moisture and a radiant finish. The It’s Like Skin Concealer + Tint is great for a no-makeup makeup look. The shade range is very impressive, and the undertones match so well! I’m shade 230 N. I use the Natural Look Concealer Brush for application. It’s so quick and covers beautifully.
WHAT NON-NEGOTIABLES KEEP YOU LOVING THE SKIN YOU’RE IN?
Sunscreen is a must, even on cloudy days! Double cleansing when wearing makeup and thinking positive, beautiful thoughts about myself while looking in the mirror.
WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE FOR OTHERS LOOKING TO OWN THEIR STORY?
Investing in yourself is the most important thing. That means taking good care of your body, mind, and spirit. Your career and your partner might only sometimes be there, but one thing you can count on is your relationship with yourself. Knowing you’re capable in all those areas will carry you through your life. I’ve never regretted taking a class, exercising, or eating well.
Also, make mistakes. We are all so afraid of trying new things, but failing higher is something I truly believe in. If you don’t try, you won’t know! When you leap, a safety net always appears. Your old life will always be there waiting for you, so why not try?
How can you invest in yourself this week? Share how you’re taking care of YOU in the comments!
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