Muse of the Month 04 - Phoenix Karaka
This month, we’re celebrating Phoenix — an incredible athlete, mum of two, and devoted ABR Skin muse.
For Phoenix, skincare is her one non-negotiable act of self-care. Morning and night, it helps her feel refreshed, grounded, and ready to take on the demands of training, motherhood, and everything in between.
In her MOTM interview, Phoenix shares how becoming a mum has shifted her skin, the ABR product she never skips (hint: it’s hydration in a bottle), and her philosophy on balancing performance, motherhood, and self-care.
Q: How important is skincare to you as an athlete and a mum?
A: It’s my one selfish act I prioritise every morning and night! It sets the tone for my day, feeling refreshed and helps me settle into my bedtime routine.
Q: When did you first start using ABR Skin, and what made it stick for you?
A: I love to say I’ve been a day one ABR consumer! Being a busy mum/athlete, my favourite thing about ABR is that I only need a few steps in my skincare routine to actually make my skin feel clean and healthy.
Q: Do you have a favourite ABR product that you always reach for?
A: The ABR Skin Toning Facial Mist! I love how hydrating it makes my skin feel and look. The benefits of having ingredients like Davidson plum help with collagen production, which is a no-brainer for my ageing skin, hehe.
Q: With your busy schedule, how do you fit skincare into your day? Is there one step you never skip?
A: Again, I’ll never skip the Facial Mist! If I know after a training session I have a very quick turnaround for my next appointment or activity, I always have my mist on hand to make sure I not only feel refreshed but also look it!
Q: How do you unwind or take time for yourself when things feel full-on?
A: My quick fix is going for a walk to get some fresh air and moving my body, but my latest addiction has been trying out all the Thai massage clinics on Dominion Rd! There are so many to choose from!
Q: Has your skin changed since pregnancy and becoming a mum of two?
A: Yes! My skin dries out a lot faster now than it did pre-kids, and that’s all over my body, which has been a battle. My biggest learning, however, like anything, is consistency.
Q: What advice would you give to other women trying to juggle performance, motherhood, and self-care?
A: Never feel guilty for prioritising time for yourself. When I’m doing my skincare, if anyone tries to come and disturb me, I tell them to go away - lol!