When it comes to recovering after a tough workout, few need to be as well equipped as professional dancers. Hours spent running, jumping, and gliding in pointe shoes can take a toll on the body, no matter how elegant it may look—just one reason American Ballet Theatre principal dancer Isabella Boylston joined forces with Tenoverten to release the Recovery.
The full-body mineral soak uses a blend of Epsom salt and arnica extract to soothe tired muscles while hydrating and rejuvenating skin. “I’m constantly rehearsing, performing, and on the road, and the older I get, the more I realize how critical it is to prioritize recovery,” Boylston tells Bazaar. “I love discovering products, rituals, or experiences that allow you to rejuvenate and prepare you to do your best work.”
Here, the prima ballerina shares a few expert tips she relies on to ease everyday aches and pains, along with some of her favorite ways to unwind (including, almost always, a designated time for baths).
How did your partnership with Tenoverten come about?
I’ve been a longtime fan of Tenoverten and love their ethos to create eco-conscious, better-for-you products. Not to mention, their salon in New York City is such a peaceful place to unwind and get a pedicure. I take a bath almost every day, and it relaxes my muscles and puts me in a better headspace. When we decided to collaborate, a soak felt like the perfect way to come together.
Ballerinas are known for having to deal with aching, sometimes blistering feet. In addition to a good foot soak, what are some other ways you manage the pain?
Yes, it’s true that ballerinas have to manage injuries constantly—everything from blisters to much more serious injuries. We dance for up to nine hours a day. I try to get a massage weekly, and I use compression pants at night when I’m watching a show. I have a chronic ankle injury that I have to put into an ice bucket at night after rehearsal. And I do physical therapy and Pilates to treat and prevent injuries.
About how many pointe shoes do you own?
I actually don’t own many at one time because I go through them so quickly. They are supplied by American Ballet Theatre, and my contract entitles me to up to 10 pairs a week, although the most I usually use is five in a week.
What are some of your favorite ways to relax after a long day of rehearsing?
My favorite activities are cooking—especially my favorite food: pasta—reading, and hiking. Growing up in the mountains in Idaho made me a nature lover for life. I’m also an extrovert, and I get a lot of energy from being around my friends. And of course the aforementioned bath time!
Would you consider eucalyptus and peppermint among your favorite scents?
I find both eucalyptus and peppermint extremely soothing and relaxing. I always buy fresh eucalyptus at the farmers’ market, so I knew we needed to include that in the Recovery. The scent in your bath is going to make you feel like you’re at the spa, except it’s way more affordable. It’s really all about repairing, resetting, and relieving tired muscles while also nourishing dry skin, while in the comfort of your own home.
What are some of your favorite Tenoverten nail polish shades?
I love a soft pink like the Anne, and Broadway—a show is red. They are not only eight-free (made without ingredients like dibutyl phthalate, toluene, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, xylene, or triphenyl phosphate), but also cruelty-free and vegan.
The Recovery bath soak is exclusively available at tenoverten.com for $28.
