My Morning Routine: Designer Richard Chai's Secrets for Better Looking Skin
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Between managing his own collection, consulting as creative director for Andrew Marc, and designing Cristiano Ronaldo’s underwear line CR7 (watch out Beckham, it’s coming to the US later this year), Richard Chai has become a master at prioritizing his time. When it comes to his morning routine, a lack of facial fuzz and short hair means he can spend a few more minutes showing TLC to his mug. "I’m not crazy or hardcore about grooming maintenance, but skin is the one thing that’s super important to me," says Chai. Aside from gulping down a Starbucks Venti Iced Green Tea each morning (which is full of skin boosting antioxidants), here’s how the designer keeps up appearances.
The Face: "I use Dr. Jart V7 Cleansing Foam, then put on a serum (Colbert MD Stimulate, The Serum) and apply moisturizer (Colbert MD Nutrify & Protect Day) daily. I also use a natural toner called Aubrye Organics Clarifying Therapy Toner religiously. A few times a week I eoliate with peel pads (Colbert MD Intensify Facial Discs) that have fruit acid in them."
The Beard: "As much as I want to grow facial hair and look like a hipster, I could just never do it. I can go a full week and barely have to do anything. So when I do, I’m pretty bad and raw about it. I don’t even use cream."
The Hair: "I get my hair cut once a week and have had the same NYC barber since I was a kid. It’s this urban hair shop in Hells Kitchen. Some of the more upscale shops don’t know how to do a proper fade." For styling, Chai uses American Crew Fiber molding cream: "It’s matte but has a super hold."
The Body: "I’m into the Aesop Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser."
The Fragrance: "I change out my colognes depending on the season. In the Fall I love Comme des Garcons Blue Cedrat because it’s kind of woodsy. And then in the spring I wear Odin 02 Owari, which is much more citrusy and light. To apply I just spray into my hands and pat my neck." (Richard’s older brother, Eddy Chai, is co-owner of Odin).
The Indulgence: "We’ve used these amazing water-based hydrating masks (called Dr. Jart Water Fuse Water-Full Hydrogel Mask) at my shows in the past and they’re an incredible product. Keep them in the fridge before you use."
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