Bestselling Author Alex Aster on Her Creative Process and Self-Care Routine

Alex Aster, a prolific author renowned for her captivating 'Lightlark' series and the chart-topping rom-com 'Summer in the City,' has become a familiar face on social media, captivating over a million followers with her engaging behind-the-scenes glimpses into her life. Her literary achievements are impressive, with the 'Lightlark' series alone selling over three million copies, and both 'Lightlark' and 'Summer in the City' currently undergoing adaptation for the big screen by Universal and New Line Cinema, respectively. Despite her demanding schedule, having released seven books in just three years, Aster prioritizes self-care to maintain her well-being. During a recent interview, she delved into her professional habits and personal beauty regimen, offering a unique perspective on how they intertwine with her creative endeavors.

Aster emphasizes that beauty and self-presentation play a significant role in her storytelling, particularly in defining her characters. For instance, in 'Lightlark,' the protagonist Isla's elaborate hair, makeup, and outfits serve as a form of armor, a deliberate strategy to be underestimated by others. This concept evolves throughout the series, with Isla transitioning from sartorial defenses to literal armor in 'Crowntide,' reflecting her emotional and physical journey. Similarly, in 'Summer in the City,' the character Elle observes how her appearance alters others' perceptions and treatment of her, highlighting that dressing up can be a powerful act of self-expression, not solely for external validation. Aster herself adopts a pragmatic approach to makeup, applying it only when necessary for public appearances or content creation, preferring comfort during her intense writing sessions.

To manage the physical and mental demands of her profession, Aster adheres to a strict morning writing schedule, rising at 6:00 AM to work in solitude before the city awakens. She combats writing fatigue and travel-induced skin dryness with an array of skincare essentials, including eye masks, sheet masks like SK-II, and products from Biologique Recherche and SkinCeuticals. Recognizing the physical toll of writing and book signings, she incorporates regular massages and hand stretches into her routine to alleviate pain. Furthermore, Aster sets clear boundaries with social media, acknowledging and appreciating her followers' messages but limiting direct responses to protect her time and vision, reserving personal interactions for book tours. She also embraces physical activity, finding Pilates to be a rewarding challenge that helps her mental focus and reinforces the value of perseverance and growth.

Alex Aster's journey as a bestselling author exemplifies the dedication required to excel in the creative industry, coupled with a mindful approach to personal well-being. Her characters' evolving relationship with their appearance, her disciplined work ethic, and her thoughtful self-care practices demonstrate a holistic view of success, where artistic output is balanced with personal health and boundaries. Her story is an inspiring testament to achieving ambitious goals while prioritizing one's own peace and vitality.