Ilona Maher's Essential Pre-Game Item Is Something We All Require

      Whether you began following rugby after the 2024 Olympic Games or have been a devoted fan for years, you've likely observed that players must be prepared for anything on the field while playing for hours in the sun. Thus, when it was revealed that USA rugby star Ilona Maher would collaborate with Coppertone, it appeared to be a perfect match. "What I find most rewarding about this is that it's a brand I genuinely use," she shares with Who What Wear. "Even before partnering with them, I would keep it in my locker and it's the one product I always bought for practice." Her preferred item is the Sport SPF Spray due to its convenience. "I spend a lot of time in the sun with multiple training sessions each day, and it’s sweat-resistant," she explains. "So it’s great to be associated with a brand that I use and will continue to use." If you're interested in learning about Ilona's skincare tips and tricks for maintaining her skin before and after matches, keep reading.

      What do you do to prepare your skin for long practices and games? "The key element for me is my face sunscreen. I use a small SPF stick that’s easy to apply, and then I put on my eyebrows and mascara to get ready for the game. For my lips, I choose Maybelline's Super Stay Matte Ink in the Self-Starter shade, which is a coral color. It’s not quite red, but it enhances my lips beautifully. It honestly lasts through everything. Other than that, my routine is minimal because I know I’ll be sweating and getting dirty, so I keep it simple to allow for a more thorough routine afterward."

      You spend several hours on the field under the sun. How vital is it to have a sunscreen that helps you perform at your best? "While out there trying to catch a ball, having dry hands is crucial. That's why I prefer the Coppertone spray. I don’t apply it on my hands to avoid risking any slips. A drop ball is significant for us. In rugby sevens, we say we chase the sun; we play in places like Dubai, Sydney, and Cape Town. In those environments, I need proper protection, and no matter the location, Coppertone has me covered."

      What other skincare issues do you face while playing? "We spend a lot of time on the ground, which leads to turf burn and damages our skin in various ways. Taking care of my skin after games is essential; I shower and make sure to clean any cuts thoroughly. That’s my first line of defense to support and protect my skin. For my face, I enjoy using Paula's Choice Pro-Collagen Peptide Plumping Gel-Cream Moisturizer."

      What’s your go-to product for a mid-day refresh? "I usually apply another layer of deodorant since time is often limited. Some of my teammates spray a little perfume on themselves. The most important thing is to smell fresh because you know you’ll get dirty again, and it’s a moment to feel a bit better."

      Do you have more time for your beauty routine during the off-season? "I’m still working out consistently in the off-season, but I plan to get a spray tan since I don't tan easily. I also intend to treat myself to a pedicure. In the past, I've sometimes gotten fake nails during the off-season, but since I have a tendency to pick them off, I need to avoid that. Typically, I wear contacts, but I also enjoy wearing my glasses as a treat."

      How important is it for you to take time for self-care? "I definitely prioritize self-care. It’s very important because to perform at your best, you need to present your best self to feel good. This leads to creating better content that people notice. With my brand focused on authenticity, they can see the difference. I want to give them my best, and I achieve that by taking the necessary time for myself. I feel refreshed and recharged."

      You went viral for your lipstick moments on the field, and since then, your visibility has surged. How has your relationship with beauty changed as a professional athlete in the spotlight? "Beauty is always evolving, and I’m discovering what suits me. Recently, I discussed with a friend how I’m learning to style my hair in various ways, such as center parts and slick backs. It’s enjoyable for me to express myself differently. Figuring out my style and what makes me feel confident is an ongoing journey. As trends and styles change, it's fun to keep exploring new looks."

      What excites you most about the upcoming rugby season? "The World Cup is approaching, and I’m thrilled about it. We have many goals to achieve, records to set, and a greater audience to engage with rugby, thereby introducing more people to our game. I'm really looking forward to that."

      **Shop Ilona's Picks**

      - Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Spray