Kellie Gerardi’s AM/PM routine

My daughter, who is nearly two years old, wakes up by 7am every day, so I’ve gotten used to waking up before her and scrolling through my email and social media before heating up her cup of milk. I typically stick to the same breakfast of eggs, avocado and spinach.

…NASA commissioned a study into the effect of spaceflight on skin and found that after six months in space, the epidermis is up to 20 percent thinner. The most common skin complaints from astronauts are dryness, itchiness, flaking and sensitivity. If I were going, I’d bring a great moisturizer and collagen emulsion. I’m unapologetic about the fact that I feel my best when I’m wearing a bit of makeup and, while I don’t need full glam, I would bring a few basic items to help me feel fresh and energized.

…as they have three meals per day, plus snacks. NASA nutritionists design menus that balance calories, vitamins and minerals, and meal plans are agreed with astronauts long before they go to space. They include frozen foods like vegetables and desserts, refrigerated foods like fresh-treated fruits and dairy, and shelf-stable foods like peanut butter and granola bars.

…since my microgravity research flights require a Class 3 medical certificate, which tests my vision, hearing, blood pressure and a number of other factors. I do a mix of low- and high-impact cardio, strength training and stretching to maintain my health, plus daily walks and workout videos when traveling. Strength training is important; I have a toddler who loves to be carried around.

…so astronauts on the International Space Station exercise daily to combat microgravity-induced muscle atrophy. Their weight-training exercises are similar to what they do on Earth, except using equipment that mimics the effects of gravity. There’s a stationary bicycle (with clip-in pedals and a seatbelt to hold you down) along with a floating, customized treadmill that astronauts can use with the help of a harness to keep them in place.

…because minimizing water is important. Bathing requires rinse-less shampoo with soap and water pouches squeezed onto the skin. Here on Earth, I definitely enjoy a double cleanse.

…but in reality, I’m catching up with laundry and emails and straightening up the house. When I do have time to relax, I read thrillers by Stephen King, Lee Child or Karen Slaughter or watch TV; science fiction is my favorite genre and I love programs like The X-Files and Fringe.

…I use a moisturizing balm to remove my makeup, followed by a foaming cleanser with Foreo’s Luna 3 Cleansing System. I follow with a retinol cream and a hydrating night gel. I enjoy this ritual and I love the way my skin feels and looks in the morning.

Water is a precious resource that has to be carefully conserved at the Mars Desert Research Facility. For my visit I packed pre-moistened towelettes, rinse-less shampoo and facial cleansing wipes. I kept my makeup pretty simple, mostly using tinted moisturizers, concealer and pigmented lip balms.