Tia Mowry [1] is no stranger to a busy schedule. Between acting, running her hair-care line, 4U by Tia [2], raising two kids, and preparing for the release of her new Netflix [3] holiday movie "My Secret Santa," she's always moving — but she's also intentional about finding ways to stay grounded. "Being a parent can be hard at times, but when you feel like you are seen and supported by your community, it feels like you can take on anything," Mowry tells Popsugar. That balance between family, career, and self-care [4] is something she's worked hard to cultivate, and it's what drives many of her latest projects.
This fall, Mowry is partnering with General Mills and Box Tops for Education to make back-to-school season [5] a little easier for parents. "I'm a mom of two, so I truly understand how stressful and chaotic back-to-school can be, from packing lunches to getting everyone out the door on time in the morning," she says. A recent General Mills survey found that snack shopping is one of parents' top stressors, which is why she's excited about the Free Snacks program [6]. Families can get up to $12.99 back via rebate when they buy participating General Mills products along with a participating snack and submit their receipt through the Box Tops for Education app [7] — a win-win that also helps support local schools. "I like that this program is helping to give families a break with free snacks, just by stocking up on General Mills products they already love," she explains.
When she does get a rare day off, Mowry loves to slow things down with yoga, meditation, cooking, and even a little dancing. "Self-love isn't selfish!" she says. Ahead, the multi-hyphenate star shares her must haves — from affordable hair care to luxe skincare — that help her feel her best no matter what's on her plate.
Tia Mowry's Affordable Must Have
Mowry is constantly on the go, but she makes time for routines that keep her grounded. "I've learned over the years as a parent that keeping things simple and consistent helps make the chaos a little calmer," she says. That philosophy extends to her beauty routine as well, where her 4U by Tia Leave-In Curl Cream [8] ($13) keeps her curls hydrated and defined without extra fuss.
Tia Mowry's Investment Must Have
For Mowry, self-care isn't selfish — it's essential. "It's so important to give back to yourself when you have time," she says. That's why she believes in splurging on skincare, such as La Prairie White Caviar Light Concentrate Face Serum [9] ($665), a product she considers an investment in herself.
Tia Mowry's Morning Routine Must Have
Back-to-school mornings in her household start early, which is why Mowry leans on grab-and-go snacks to keep everyone moving. "I keep things like Nature Valley bars or Mott's fruit snacks in a basket by the door to avoid hangry moments," she shares. Her first reach in the morning? Nature Valley Crunchy Oats 'n Honey Granola Bars [10] ($12), a quick bite that keeps her fueled through the chaos.
Tia Mowry's Nighttime Routine Must Have
On rare off-duty nights, Mowry prioritizes winding down with mindfulness. "I would ease in the day with some type of breathwork, meditation, or yoga — anything that calms the nervous system," she says. Her Sensate Stress Relief Device [11] ($349) helps her do just that, creating a sense of calm before bed.
Tia Mowry's Travel Must Have
Between filming, events, and family trips, Mowry is no stranger to travel. But even on the road, she carries little comforts that remind her of home. "Community and connection are so important to me," she says, and for her, scent is part of that grounding. Le Labo Santal 33 Perfume [12] ($110) is always in her carry-on, a fragrance that feels like both a luxury and a ritual.
Haley Lyndes [13] is a shopping writer and editor with more than seven years of experience in the publishing space. Specializing in home and lifestyle, she covers everything from furniture and mattresses to beauty products and fitness gear. Her writing has appeared in BuzzFeed, Travel + Leisure, and Real Simple.