In Chill Chat, Bustle sits down with celebrities to talk all things wellness, from their favorite skincare products to tips for a good night's sleep. Here, Marsai Martin shares how she stays authentic in the age of AI and the wellness rituals she makes for herself.
When Marsai Martin first landed her role as the plucky and overly mature Diane on the beloved sitcom Black-ish , the young actor was just 10 years old in real life. For nearly a decade, the character *and* Martin herself have grown up with the world as their audience - but despite the pressures of existing in an over-exposed digital age, the now 19-year-old is truly authentic .
"I like to wake up with no makeup on, a hat on my head and fancy clothes. All I like to do is rest and then go about my day from there," Martin told me over the phone. "[This] is what I call true beauty."
Her admiration for those makeup-free (and tech-free) moments is why she feels so connected to Dove's renewed commitment to continuing to use real people — not artificial intelligence — in advertising.
"Dove has always been a part of my family. They have had a huge impact on the lives of my generation," she said. "When I heard about this campaign, it really clicked with me because I've always been connected to the idea of 'real beauty.'"
Martin went on to explain that edited photos, filters, and even AI-modified images can have a negative impact on self-esteem and body confidence — especially in young girls. Considering that Dove reports that 90% of content is expected to be generated by artificial intelligence by 2025, action to stay authentic is needed now more than ever.
Here, Martin talks to Busy about her relationship with social media, the healthy habits that keep her grounded, and more.
What is your relationship with social media?
Me and social media, I call it situational. It's something you enjoy for a while, something you'll enjoy, and you'll meet new people in a different way. But then again, if you do use it regularly and the doom roll starts, it might have some effect on you.
I try not to get too involved, especially because I know what it can do and how it feels inside when you pay more attention to someone else's life. I always have to remember that social media is something you can control and I choose to do this for my mental health.
Do you have a Finsta?
I don't usually admit this, but I do have a Finsta that has content far beyond my home page. My page is for private messages only.
What wellness rituals do you like to do?
I like to journal, go out and exercise, or just do something non-technical. This is important.
Another self-care thing I like to do for myself is I start cooking more often...I don't really have a recipe, I just cook. Anything that allows me to focus on something different and put myself in a situation where I can be proud of the end result is super cool.
How about your latest favorite workout?
Going to the gym irritates me, but when I do it, I say, "I'm glad I got this done," and then I'm ready to sleep all day. But I love anything that works my upper body, my core, and especially my upper back.
I did Pilates for the first time when I was filming earlier this year - it was so much fun and I hope to get back into it.
Who's on your workout playlist?
My favorite rapper is Tyler, The Creator. I'm an R&B girl - I love Lucky Daye, Victoria Monet. It’s really a mix of everything.
Are you an early bird or a night owl?
I don't consider myself a morning person or a night owl. I woke up very late, around 9:30. I go to bed early - I'm sleepy around 7:00 and then I'm ready for bed. I am the Queen of the Afternoon.
Are there any recent nail art trends that you’re loving?
I love earth tones. Lately it's been neutral or super green, [but] now, I have a pinky nude nail that's like marble with gold accents.
How about a gorgeous look that makes you feel your most powerful?
When I'm on the carpet, I love being able to find the perfect balance between edgy and comfortable tomboy vibes, but still remain classy in my hair.
So it's either that or when I wake up in the morning at what I call "first base," no makeup, a hat on my head, and nice loud casual clothes.
What is your logo? Gold nails and fancy clothes make me want to guess…
I am a triple Leo. Sun, moon and rising – this is Leo.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity .
