My Beauty File: Maria Hatzistefanis Of Rodial

How do you become an overnight success? Well, Maria Hatzistefanis will be the first to tell you that you don't. The founder of Rodial, Maria spent 18 years building what is now considered a cult beauty brand popular among the likes of Poppy Delevingne and Kylie Jenner. When the British skincare company became popular, the press began to refer to her as an "overnight success", even though Maria's journey had been a long one, with plenty of ups and downs. Maria shares this journey in her first book, aptly titled How To Be An Overnight Success. In it she shares her advice and insider knowledge about building a successful business from the ground up. We talked to her about what a day in the life of a busy entrepreneur looks like, and how she prioritizes her wellness, skincare, and health. Here's what she said:

Breakfast:

I start my morning with hot water and lemon followed by an espresso shot. After my morning workout I have a protein smoothie before heading to the office.

Morning Skincare:

I use the Rodial Bee Venom Cleanser morning and night. It’s a balmy cleanser that's gentle on the skin. Lately I have also been using the Rose Gold Deep Line Filler: it’s the best product I've used to get a flawless base.

Night Skincare:

I mask all the time. In the evening I will use a Rodial Pink Diamond sheet mask or the Rodial Dragons Blood Eye Mask, which is great for dark circles.

Supplements:

Before I go to bed I take magnesium and calcium tablets with honey and ginger tea. This helps me to sleep after a busy day.

Fitness:

I go to the gym every morning to motivate me for the day and focus my attention. I go to either Barry’s Bootcamp or a TRX class at Core Collective near my house.

Tech:

I use Headspace for meditation.

Hair:

I go to Josh Wood in Notting Hill and also have a great team of stylists who do my hair for shoots and events.

Dermatologist Or Facialist?

I book regular facials, especially if I have a big event coming up. FaceGym in Chelsea (London) is one of my favorite places to go at the moment.

Wellness:

I spend the weekends in the country with my family and that time is very important to me. I also indulge in a weekly deep tissue massage—this helps me to take some time out from my busy schedule and relax.

Biggest Beauty Myth:

There is none; I believe everything!

My Charlotte:

Anna Wintour

My Best Piece of Beauty Advice:

Use a high SPF every day, even in the winter.

My Best Piece of Life Advice:

Believe in yourself and don’t let anyone bring you down. You need to stick with positive people who encourage you and want you to succeed. Find role models and inspiring stories to keep you motivated.

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