Tate McRae, the 21-year-old Canadian pop sensation, recently opened up about her meticulous approach to music, her evolving beauty routine, and the pressures of fame. As she gears up for the release of her new album, So Close to What, McRae confessed to being a self-proclaimed “over-thinker,” constantly striving for perfection in her art.
“That’s number one just because I’m going into an album campaign,” she explained, adding that the process involves intense scrutiny of every detail. “You look at all the art and you just try to pick it apart as much as you can until the day that you have to turn it in.”
Amidst the demanding schedule of album releases and tours, McRae prioritizes her skincare regimen. The singer, recently named Neutrogena’s Global Ambassador for the 10th anniversary of their Hydro Boost Water Gel, relies on a few key products from the brand to maintain her glowing complexion.
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“When I’m on tour, I honestly just try to get on the bus and go to bed as soon as possible,” McRae shared. However, she always makes time for a thorough skincare routine. “I’ll use my Neutrogena wipes and take off my makeup. Then, I’ll usually go in with a light cleanser. And then, I obviously use the Hydro Boost Water Gel.”
The Hydro Boost Water Gel is a fan favorite, known for its lightweight texture and intense hydration. McRae’s connection to Neutrogena goes beyond a simple endorsement; it’s a nostalgic reminder of her early days in dance competitions.
She reminisced about learning to apply makeup for performances and the importance of post-performance skincare. “All I would do is splash water on my face and then put on Neutrogena moisturizer,” she recalled, highlighting the simplicity and effectiveness of the product. “I’ve been using the moisturizer for so many years, so a partnership with Neutrogena felt very natural and exciting.”
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Even with a dedicated skincare routine, breakouts are inevitable. McRae acknowledges this, stating that “even right now, I’m on set and having a breakout and there’s nothing you can do.” She emphasizes the normalcy of skin imperfections and her approach to managing them. “It’s normal. It’s natural. Everyone gets pimples. You just have to deal with it.” Her remedy includes professional facials and allowing her skin to breathe by going makeup-free for a few days.
With her rising fame, fueled by sold-out tours and captivating dance routines that went viral on TikTok, McRae has faced increasing scrutiny. “It’s a terrifying thing to be perceived by that many people,” she admitted. The pressure to please everyone became overwhelming, leading her to a crucial realization: “You’ll never be able to impress or please everyone.”
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This realization prompted a shift in McRae’s perspective. Instead of chasing perfection, she now prioritizes her creative instincts. “Every time I go in the studio, I’m like, ‘What do I love? What have I not done? What do I think is exciting at this time? What am I passionate about?'” By focusing on her own artistic vision, McRae strives for authenticity and genuine self-expression in her music. She has learned to filter out external pressures and embrace her individuality as a 21-year-old woman navigating the complexities of fame and creative expression.
