MY MORNING ROUTINE
A true hidden gem, Monika Dragaj is the Biologique Recherche expert of Westchester, New York, based in a sublime, light-filled studio in Bronxville. Her thoughtfully crafted, results-driven treatments pair true skill with proven-effective products and techniques, delivering the ultimate glow that lasts for weeks (we swear!).
What do you do first upon waking?
I’m as guilty as anybody for reaching for my phone first thing in the morning. I check my schedule, reply to messages, and browse for a podcast to listen to as I get ready for the day. Before I head out, I always make a frothy ZenCha Matcha latte to sip on my drive to the studio.
What is your own morning skincare routine?
I always start with a milky cleanser. I rotate between Biologique Recherche Lait Dermo-S, Environ Cleansing Lotion, and Venn Moisture Balance Cleanser. For milky cleansers, make sure you use them on dry hands and a dry face. I really enjoy taking my time massaging them into my skin and I love to incorporate lymphatic drainage. This is the perfect time to use cryosticks on top for firming and depuffing.
Next, I saturate my skin with Venn’s 80% Synbiotic Mist for deep hydration and balancing my microbiome.
I follow with a serum cocktail from Biologique Recherche, depending on what my skin needs that day.
On top I always mix Creme PIGM 400 with another moisturizer (I rotate seasonally).
I seal it all in with the BR finishing serums for maximum protection, hydration, and glow.
Finally, the most important step is, of course, SPF (and I use all my hard-working actives in the evenings)!
What do you eat and drink in the morning?
On days I’m at the studio I pick up a bagel at Park Place in Bronxville. I always get the same thing, a toasted flat sesame bagel with Tofu cream cheese and an iced coconut coffee with oat milk. I can’t imagine ever getting sick of it. On days I am not in the studio, I love making an extravagant brunch for me and my husband.
Do you have a morning exercise routine/if so what is it?
I am definitely not a morning person. Currently in the evenings I bike on my Peloton, followed by an additional class on their app every other day or so. When my schedule aligns, I love to take a class at hot phiit in Bronxville.
What are your key skin tips and tricks for travelling?
Don’t change your daily routine just because you’re traveling. Consistency is key. I recommend the travel jars from Cadence and recommend them to my clients.
I love a sheet mask on a flight. I will always take Biologique Recherche’s Masque PIGM 400 or Venn’s Phyto-Retinol Renewal Mask for hydration. After I remove the mask I apply Creme Masque Vernix to seal in the serums and protect my barrier from the awful airplane air quality.
Never forget your SPF - this is the number one anti-aging product. You’re likely spending more time outdoors on your trip, so always wear a hat and sunglasses and make sure to reapply sunscreen frequently as needed. My favorite is Isdin 100% mineral lightweight SPF with DNA damage-repair enzymes.
What are your 3 hero products?
A well-formulated milky cleanser - Yes, I understand that these get rinsed off, but this is the foundation of your entire routine. Don’t skimp on this part; it will elevate your entire routine. Harsh cleansers and scrubs can strip and damage your epidermis, while milky cleansers gently yet deeply remove build up while strengthening and nourishing your skin barrier.
Biologique Recherche Finishing Serums I rotate between two favorites; these are super concentrated and potent. They are worth the splurge if you really want to step up your skincare routine and have that signature healthy glow!
High-quality SPF - As I mentioned earlier, my favorite sunscreen is Isdin. However, the best SPF is the one you will love & use religiously.
What’s your favorite treatment – both at home or with you – before a big event or night out?
I am so lucky to have so many tools at my disposal at the Skin Studio. The Biologique Recherche Remodeling Treatment is perfect before an event. It’s basically microcurrent on steroids. This device sculpts your facial contours, softens wrinkles, and has you looking snatched! If you can’t schedule this treatment and need an at-home alternative, I recommend the NuFace device.
The Hydrafacial is another excellent option that provides a deep cleaning and beautiful glow. The most accessible and easy-to-use professional and at-home treatment is the MC110 booster. It exfoliates, brightens pigmentation, plumps fine lines, and gives an instant glow. Combine all three and you will be more radiant than ever; we call this the Red Carpet Treatment!
What are your favourite facial treatments/tools/technology?
In addition to the devices in my previous answer, I absolutely LOVE red light therapy for at-home use. It’s excellent for inflammation, which includes most skin concerns such as acne, pigmentation, rosacea, etc. I adore the OmniLux device. Unlike other red light masks, this one is created from a soft silicone material and, although it is designed for the face, it is flexible to apply to any area of your body experiencing discomfort. I like to use it on my neck & knees too. Red light therapy is also proven to help with sleep and calm anxiety, it truly promotes healthy aging. It’s a great “skinvestment”!
Besides skincare products and treatments, what else are the best things we can do for our skin?
Healthy diet: Giving up dairy years ago was the best thing I ever did for my gut and my skin. I’ve been plant-based for over 6 years now and try to focus on a clean, fresh, colorful diet - other than my guilty pleasure - bagels & donuts (basically anything with a hole in it!).
NO heat, steam, or hot water on the face - ever.
Stop touching your face or picking at your skin. You need a silk pillowcase ASAP.
Dedicated face towels: Use a new clean hand towel/muslin cloth for your face daily. If you want to avoid extra laundry, get yourself disposable cotton face towels.
Laundry detergent matters - I recommend Branch Basics.
Less is more, consistency is key.
Silk pillowcase – your skin and hair will thank you. Wash them at least weekly. More frequently if you have acne.
Annual skin cancer screening with your dermatologist starting in your 20’s.
Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water. I also love LMNT electrolytes.
Don’t forget about your body – apply products to your neck, chest and everywhere else.
Where is your favourite place in the world to wake up?
Somewhere new! I love traveling and have visited over 30 countries throughout my life. I never go back to the same place more than once, and I like to experience cities, wildlife, culture, and my most favorite - try new food!
Two recent spots I’ve woken up were on the lagoon at GoldenEye in Jamaica, and on the highest floor of a hotel in the middle of Tokyo, Japan. It’s incredible how you can start your day in New York City and end your day on the other side of the world.
