“I started this brand to create change,” says Indie Lee, whose eponymous line of ‘skincare with standards’ eschews parabens, synthetic fragrances and other nasties in favour of natural ingredients. After recovering from successful brain surgery in 2009—she had been diagnosed with a rare tumour and told she had six months to live—Lee resolved to “help others be the healthiest and most empowered versions of themselves—physically, emotionally and spiritually. [This mission] guides everything we do, starting with our internal team to outward communication. This brand is all about empowerment, education and healthy living; creating a community of like-minded individuals on the same journey of change.”
With Mother’s Day right around the corner, we spoke to Lee about the importance of maternal figures, self-care and how she’s celebrating from home...
What’s the Greatest Lesson Your Children Have Taught You?
“I have a 20-year-old son, a 17-year-old daughter, and a nine-year-old goddaughter who lives with me. They have taught me many lessons but one of the greatest is to slow down and look at things through their eyes in each situation. It’s so easy to say this will pass or trust me this is so insignificant compared to xyz, but for them that moment or challenge is everything. I’ve also learned to find joy in their moments of success or silliness. So blessed.”
What Does Motherhood Mean to You?
“Motherhood completely changed my life. I had no idea about my capacity to love another human being until my children were born. Life changed the second they were placed in my arms. I think the biggest change has been the overwhelming sense that I need to protect them at all times. Especially when I factor in my clean beauty background, knowing what I know now about beauty regulations, I always want to make sure they are aware and educated on what they are putting in and on their bodies! I keep the house stocked with not only clean beauty products but also clean household items and healthy foods.”
How Will You Be Celebrating This Year?
“I love Mother’s Day, it’s a reminder to appreciate the ones who have played a maternal role in my life, how much they mean to me, and how much I appreciate them. However, given the current circumstances of the world right now, I will most likely be celebrating a little differently this year. Since we probably won’t be able to physically be together, I will be adding a dedicated moment of gratitude to all these women and will be sending my hugs and kisses virtually.”
Do You Believe in Work/Life Balance?
“I look at balance a little differently. I don’t believe it’s always an equal split between priorities. For me, it’s knowing and accepting that sometimes 80% of my focus will be on my kids, while 20% could be on business and other times work can have my entire focus. Accepting this constant state of fluctuation is the way I’ve been able to juggle the important roles in my life. But no matter what I do in my life, my greatest accomplishment will always be my children.”
What Are the Wellness Rituals You Swear By?
“Meditation is one of my biggest rituals. I do transcendental meditation twice daily for twenty minutes, even if I’m traveling. It’s something that always brings me back to center and keeps me grounded. I really feel the effects if I don’t stick with it.
I also religiously practice my Selfcare Sundays. I always take Sundays for myself—I mask, take a relaxing bath and always clean my makeup brushes. They seem like small acts, but they help ground me for my week ahead. And who doesn’t love a little self-care?”
Which Skincare and Beauty Products Do You Use Every Day?
“Right now I’m loving our new launch, the I-Waken Resurfacing Mask, and recently added it to my weekly ritual. It helps wake up tired and dull-looking skin, which has been great during this time. It only takes me five minutes to refresh my skin for a gorgeous glow.
I also can’t live without our I-Waken Eye Serum. It’s my go-to for everything - morning ritual, evening ritual, in-flight ritual, you name it. It’s like faking a full night’s sleep every time I apply.
For me personally, our I-Recover Mind & Body Gel provides a ton of comfort when I experience a Rheumatoid Arthritis flare-up. I was actually diagnosed with R.A. six months before the brain tumor, which I don’t think is a coincidence. The thermogenic properties of the Mind + Body Gel are so soothing and really help ease the discomfort. It’s also a great scent for providing a small sense of calm during crazier days.
I really love Vapour Beauty. I don’t wear a ton of makeup, I’m all about skincare that gives me makeup optional skin, but they have really amazing clean makeup options. I love their lipsticks and mascara.
Lastly, I love The Beauty Chef’s SLEEP Powder—I use warm almond milk, add a sprinkle of cinnamon and it tastes like a yummy bedtime turmeric latte. I sip this and within 20 minutes I’m drifting off to sleep.”
What Does Beauty Mean to You?
“Beauty begins from within. I always try to remind myself that we are all perfectly imperfect. You should never try to change yourself because of outward standards.”