For actor Brianne Tju, beauty and wellness is all about being in tune with her body and mind. She works out everyday but only for 10 or 20 minutes, so she doesn't end up dreading the ritual. Mornings are about sitting in the backyard. And she doesn't begrudge herself a nighttime Instagram scroll before sleep. Making time for herself and looking after her mental health is a process she's still learning but she knows when to splurge on herself when the time calls.

We connected with the I Know What You Did Last Summer actress on her life, job and what keeps her going when she need to recover. Below, Brianne reveals her favourite beauty products and why she loves her chiropractor.

What is your morning beauty routine?

I make coffee and sit in my backyard for a bit usually playing a round of Wordscapes or solitaire on my phone. I check my emails and texts. I do a quick workout video from YouTube and then I proceed to do my somewhat extensive face routine. Another cup of coffee and I’m ready to start the day.

What is your night beauty routine?

Another, slightly different, extensive face routine. I usually take a dropper full of a CBD or THC tincture to help me sleep. I hate to admit it, but I’m usually watching random YouTube videos or scrolling Instagram in bed to give the tincture time to work. Then, if I’m lucky, I’m asleep in 30.

Describe what you do for a living? What does a typical day look like for you?

I’m an actor, a human, and an artist. My days differ depending on if I’m working or not. When I’m working I’m usually running on very little sleep, going to set, getting hair and makeup done, and working. I fall into a routine because it’s more efficient and I have very little brain power to think of what to eat or wear. Before bed I learn my lines.

When I’m not working I love to watch movies and TV. I love clothes so I’m often shopping with my sister Haley who is also my stylist. I surround myself with my friends and family and we connect and eat good food together. I’m learning how to make time for myself and my mental health. I think it’s important to refill your cup so you can give more to others and be present.

What is the supermarket/ drug store/ chemist beauty products that you use and love?

I love experimenting with lip liners from the drugstore. I usually by NYX or Rimmel. I also love Burt’s Bees tinted Chapstick in Red Dahlia.

What is your main form of beauty body maintenance? What products do you use on your body?

I actually wax myself because if I shave I get ingrown hairs and hyperpigmentation. So I bought a wax pot and refill it with hard wax beads. It’s easy once you get the hang of it. Perfume is also key for me. I switch it up depending on my mood. Scent is very intimate and special and I like having my specific perfumes to choose from.

How do you keep fit/ healthy? Does exercise form a large part of your routine?

I’ve learned how to find balance in my life. I enjoy food but I also know that eating too much junk slows me down, especially when I’m working. But I do love to treat myself to ice cream, candy, and chips. I work out every day but only for 10-20 min. I’ve found that it makes me feel good without feeling overwhelmed. I don’t like to dread doing something so I’ve learned to love my little workout and I treat it like a meditation.

What procedures or professional treatments do you have as part of your beauty routine?

I love my chiropractor. I’ve noticed a huge difference in my posture, headaches, and overall well being when I’m going regularly. I haven’t gotten a facial since before the pandemic so I have splurged on some really cool skincare tools to care for my skin from home. I’m obsessed with Droplette.

What do you do when your body needs to recover?

Sleep. Water. And more sleep.

You’re tired or rundown: what is your beauty hack?

Under eye patches are key and ice. Ice wakes me up and helps de-puff. I started doing gua sha over the last year and I think that has helped my skin’s elasticity and reduces any swelling in my face.

What is the one non-negotiable in your beauty routine?

Face wash, I like Youth to the People’s Kale Face Wash. And Vitamin C, I use Skinceuticals CE Ferulic.

Do you have a beauty icon? Who are they and why?

I love Zoe Kravitz, Tina Chow, Emma Corrin, and Zendaya at the moment. They have this innate sense of cool and confidence. I like when people take risks, but they also know what looks good for their specific features. I also love when women embrace androgyny.

What is the best advice on beauty you’ve received?

Do what makes YOU happy, not what makes other people happy.

What is the best advice on health you’ve received?

Balance. Drink water. Get vaccinated.

What is the one product you can’t live without?

I can’t live without some sort of lip product. Lip gloss, aquaphor, Burt’s Bees… anything to keep me from feeling dry.

Images: Instagram