November 23, 2020Interviews
Fran Miller talks natural beauty, skin health and finding moments of calm
Most women interested in beauty will already know about the sublime natural beauty brand F.Miller. It's one of our personal favourites and is created by skincare visionary Fran Miller. The exceptional oils are 100% natural and add a touch of luxury to our everyday beauty routine. We catch up with Fran to talk about her daily rituals, pioneering a beauty brand with a holistic approach and what she's learnt along the way.
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What is your current state of mind?
Hopeful.
Upon waking, what are your morning rituals?
Big glass of warm water with apple cider vinegar or lemon. Coffee with oat milk. Body dry brush in-shower to boost circulation and move any internal/external stagnancy. Morning gua sha massage with the F. Miller Face Oil (I run it under ice-cold tap water to awaken and depuff).
What can you tell us about skin health?
My approach is less but better — start with a simple routine that focuses on hydration, nourishment, and supporting healthy skin first and foremost. I believe our internal body directly impacts our external skin health — movement, fresh air, water, and good food play a big part.
What are your daily skin care rituals?
1-3 times a week I'll do a mask that I can leave on while I do my morning things.
There's usually an F. MILLER Lip Balm in every corner of my home, it's extremely nourishing and protective, almost like a light lip mask that lasts for hours. I also keep the F. MILLER Toning Mist deskside and spray it throughout the day. It's a super hydrating blend of rose, calendula, aloe, and green tea that instantly refreshes, plumps, and boosts moisture — especially important when you're exposed to dry heat or A/C.
I keep a bottle of F. MILLER Eye Oil in the fridge for the 4pm fatigue that often sets in. It has cucumber and green coffee to depuff and a stainless steel roller ball that instantly cools and awakens. It does double duty to moisturize dry cuticles too.
You run a beautiful global beauty brand, how do you find moments of calm during your working week?
Burning incense daily, warm baths, cooking new recipes, long walks and as much time outdoors as possible.
What business lessons have you learnt along the way?
To make decisions for both present and future with care, mindfulness and intention. I'm always considering our impact and constantly striving to evolve and grow. Also, that you simply can't do everything on your own, no matter how hard you try.
The best wellbeing advice you have been given?
Take nothing for granted and always listen to your body.
When feeling uninspired, what are your rituals for creativity?
Take breaks! I like to go for short walks, do 10min of stretching or dancing, water the plants, do a face mask, and enjoy a tea somewhere other than my desk. Jotting thoughts down on paper, browsing old magazines & internet archives, planning a "one day soon" trip somewhere new — these usually help spark something.
A book that changed your outlook on life?
I love reading short stories or poetry and some favourites include Mary Oliver, Ada Limón, Mary Ruefle, and James Baldwin. More recently, Jenny Odell's "How to do Nothing", was one that really resonated.
What is a meal you love to share with friends?
A giant bowl of pasta, or a breakfast feast.
What music gets you in the mood to dance?
80's dance music, 70's - 80's afro-pop.
What wise words would you offer to your younger self?
The risk is usually worth the reward — don't be afraid to question the obvious path laid out in front of you. Also, save your money.
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Fran wears the Sabi Robe in Blanca