Petra Strand, the visionary behind Pixi Beauty, wears an incandescent glow that reflects her brand’s 25-year legacy. On a crisp London morning, Strand is already at work, her routines a testament to the dedication she has for both her brand and her personal life. As I spend the day with her, it’s clear that Strand’s life is as dynamic and inspiring as Pixi itself.
Morning Rituals
Strand rises early, around 5 or 6 AM when the city is just beginning to stir. Her morning routine is a blend of ritual and reflection. “I start my day with a splash of cold water. It wakes me up and prepares me for what’s ahead,” she says with a smile.
As she applies her Vitamin C Tonic and DetoxifEYE Eye Patches, Strand shares what these products mean to her. “Launching Pixi in India was a milestone that made me incredibly proud,” she reveals. “Seeing our products become a part of people’s daily routines in new markets is fulfilling. It’s about staying true to our DNA while growing globally.” Her thoughts often drift to Pixi’s evolution as she prepares for the rest of her day. “Every product we create is embedded in the essence of our journey,” she says. “For example, when we launched 20 Skintreats products in one year, it was a pivotal moment. It demonstrated our commitment to providing high-quality, accessible skincare.”
Powering Through
The workday for Strand is a whirlwind of meetings, product development, and creative brainstorming. Amidst it all, she finds moments to reminisce about Pixi’s origins. “I remember opening our first shop in London,” she reflects. “My sisters and I worked tirelessly, sometimes sleeping in the basement just to keep the business afloat. It was tough, but those early struggles taught us resilience.”
Her approach to beauty is rooted in a philosophy of simplicity and effectiveness. “We don’t follow trends,” she explains, “we focus on what works. Pixi is about enhancing natural beauty and making high-quality products available to everyone. This philosophy guided us through our major turning points, like the launch of our first successful product lines.” It’s clear that Strand’s business acumen is intertwined with her personal experiences. “The challenges we face are opportunities to grow,” she says. “Every day, I embrace the chance to solve problems and improve.”
Winding Down
As evening falls, Strand transitions from work to her personal space. Her night-time routine is not just about skincare; it’s a moment of self-care and relaxation. “I have a bath with Epsom salts to unwind. It’s my way of calming down after a busy day,” she says. I ask her for her top skincare tips and she’s quick to respond: “Drink lots of water, always seal your skincare in with a mist, never compromise on your beauty sleep, always exfoliate with an acid.”
Post-bath, Strand meticulously cleanses her face. “I use Pixi’s EOD Cleansing Oil and Glow Mud Cleanser,” she explains. “It’s part of my ritual to remove the day’s stress and prep my skin for the night.” Her nighttime routine also includes checking in on her children, a practice that brings her immense joy. “I always make sure they’re sleeping soundly,” she shares with a warm smile. “It’s a comforting end to my day.”
Making It Count
Strand’s journey with Pixi has been marked by both personal and professional milestones. “My advice to anyone starting their own beauty brand is to have a clear vision and tons of determination,” she says. “It’s not easy—it requires sacrifices, including time with friends and family. But if it’s your passion, it’s worth it.” Her personal beauty philosophy is a key driver behind Pixi’s success. “I want our products to help simplify beauty routines and make them accessible,” she explains. “For me, it’s about helping people look and feel their best with minimal effort.” Strand’s reflections on her career are filled with wisdom and warmth.
“Never let negative voices steer you off course,” she advises. “Stay true to your vision and surround yourself with positive, like-minded people. Work hard, but also make sure you enjoy the process.” As the day wraps up, Strand’s glow is evident not just on her skin, but in her approach to life and business. Her story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and staying true to one’s vision. Spending the day with Strand reveals that Pixi’s success is not just about the products, but about the incredible woman behind them.
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