Latin pop sensation Debi Nova has six Grammy nominated projects under her belt, a number one dance hit, and was selected by both Ricky Martin and the Black Eyed Peas for chart topping collaborations-no wonder she’s always glowing. The Costa Rican native isn’t just a media darling for “Drummer Boy” being one of the most viewed videos on Youtube or releasing her debut album, Luna Nueva, to rave reviews. Nova’s breathtaking bronzed skin, luminous tresses, and sparkling eyes have made her a sought after trendsetter in beauty for women everywhere. She was even selected by skincare brand Caress to show fans how they too could get drop-dead gorgeous for any night out. As Nova preps for her fall 2010 tour, nocheLatina catches up with the singer and surfing enthusiast on looking picture perfect, what she’s loving right now, and how Latinas can feel sexy inside and out.
nocheLatina: You’ve worked with several Grammy award-winning artists and created hit songs of your own. How do you find the time to look and feel picture perfect?
Debi Nova: Since the release of Luna Nueva, my schedule has become very busy. I have to be really good at planning ahead all my looks and outfits so that I’m not rushing last minute. I also try to have some ‘me’ time every day, whether it is a 30 minute jog, a 10 minute bath, or even a five minute meditation. This is really important to keep me centered, feeling good, and ready for my day.
nocheLatina: When it comes to going out dancing, we often focus more on what we’re wearing. Therefore, why is it crucial for everyone to put an equal focus on skincare?
Debi Nova: I think clothes are definitely important and a fun thing to play with when you go out. However, you could be wearing the most beautiful dress, but if your skin looks dry and tired, then you won’t feel sexy, and the dress won’t really make a difference. On the contrary, if your skin feels velvety, sexy, and flaunt-worthy, then you can pretty much wear anything and still feel confident.
nocheLatina: How can one flaunt sexy skin on the dance floor?
Debi Nova: I like to complement my skin with a daring lip color and thick eyelashes. Also, I love wearing dresses that accentuate my skin tone, maybe a bright color that will bring out my skin’s natural glow. But most importantly, I like to wear things that I can move in easily on the dance floor and accessorize with colorful earrings or fun cocktail rings.
nocheLatina: What are ways Latinas can have and maintain flawless skin?
Debi Nova: First step, hydration-I drink a glass of room temperature water every morning and throughout the day, which keeps me feeling refreshed and vibrant. Step two, exfoliation-I know Latinas tend to have dry skin, so using a pumice stone to treat trouble spots like elbows, knees, and heels keeps skin smooth. Step three, cleanse and moisturize-What you use in the shower is really important. Maximize your shower with Caress Velvet Bliss (body wash or beauty bar), which offers both an amazing fragrance and great moisturization in one.
nocheLatina: Which skincare/beauty products are you loving right now?
Debi Nova: My three secret weapons are:
Caress Velvet Bliss-I love that this body wash leaves my skin feeling so soft. Plus, it has a delicious fragrance of blackberries and vanilla.
Kevin Aucoin Mascara-This is the best mascara because it doesn’t rub off under my eyes and it’s really easy to take off.
Frederick Fekkai Protein Rx Shampoo and Conditioner-This line leaves my hair with perfect waves!
nocheLatina: What are your beauty secrets?
Debi Nova: I think the key is using great products. Here are my favorites:
Epicuren Rose Treat Moisturizer-Epicuren products are fully natural. This moisturizer in particular is made with pure rose extract and leaves my skin exactly how I like it.
Kiehls Lipstick-I use the transparent or the light pink. I love how it leaves my lips hydrated for hours.
MAC Eye Shadows- MAC has the best color variety!
Josie Maran Cream Blush-This blush has just enough glow for my cheeks. I love its versatility because I can also wear it as an eye shadow or lip gloss.
Laura Mercier Oil Free Tinted Moisturizer-It’s very light, but it has enough coverage and it’s also SPF 20.
Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler-This must-have product is gentle on my eyelashes and curls them perfectly.
Hot Tools Curling Iron-I like it because of its wide range of temperatures. It’s also very comfortable and easy to use.
nocheLatina: How can an aspiring artist glow from the inside out?
Debi Nova: I am faithful to the idea that mind, body, and spirit are all one, and that exterior beauty is only a reflection of what happens on the inside. This is why I believe that the most important thing is to maintain a stress-free life, eat healthy, exercise daily, and get enough sleep. I also believe that in order to glow from the inside you have to have confidence in yourself, which comes from perfecting your craft.
nocheLatina: What’s one thing that few people know about you?
Debi Nova: About five years ago I went through a rough breakup and due to the emotional stress my skin broke out massively. I had mild acne all over my forehead and jaw line. About a year later it went away by itself. The lesson for me was that everything that’s happening in your life manifests in your body one way or another, so when addressing a physical problem we always have to look also at what’s happening inside of us.
nocheLatina: Finish this sentence. Latinas are beautiful because…
Debi Nova: We are genuinely passionate.
nocheLatina: How does Luna Nueva reveal who you really are, not just as an artist, but as a woman?
Debi Nova: Every song on Luna Nueva reflects a different aspect of my life. I wrote every song on this album and I think when you write, whether consciously or not, something very personal always gets revealed. In Luna Nueva there are songs about love, like ‘Don’t Wanna Forget’ and ‘Corazon Abierto,’ as well as songs about universal topics like faith, eco-consciousness, and unity. It’s a very honest representation of who I am.
nocheLatina: Who are your beauty inspirations? How do they encourage you to look and feel good no matter what the occasion may be?
Debi Nova: My mom is definitely my biggest inspiration. She is such a beautiful and inspiring woman and also my best friend. I grew up learning many beauty tricks and rituals from her, but probably the most important thing I learned from her is that beauty is from within and to not obsess over my physical appearance. She also taught me to accept and love my body the way it is.
