Ilona Maher, who gained recognition as a silver medalist on the hit show Dancing with the Stars and as an Olympic rugby player, is stepping confidently onto a new path. With her impressive combination of athleticism and charm, Maher is set to become the first brand ambassador for Paula’s Choice, marking the launch of their new product, the Pro-Collagen Peptide Plumping Moisturizer, scheduled to hit shelves and online platforms by January 2025.
"Paula’s Choice Peptide Moisturizer is a game-changer for me," Maher shared excitedly. "It’s packed with actives… on or off the field." This statement highlights Maher's commitment not only to performance sports but also to the importance of skincare. The new moisturizer is part of Paula's renowned peptide collection, which also includes products like the Pro-Collagen Multi-Peptide Booster and Pro-Collagen Peptide Gloss Balm. Each item is formulated with powerful peptides, which are short chains of amino acids, promoting collagen production and hydrating the skin.
According to Tina Pozzi, CMO of Paula’s Choice, Maher embodies the ethos of their brand. "Ilona’s passion for excellence and her fearless approach to challenges mirror the high-performance ethos…" she explained, emphasizing their shared commitment to empowerment through effective products. So, what exactly can fans expect from Maher’s role as the brand’s 'skincare coach'? Her duties will include sharing expert skincare tips, practical advice, and 'Pep Talks' aimed at encouraging followers to pursue radiant and healthy skin—whether they are engaging with rigorous sports or simply living their daily lives.
But Maher's career isn't solely focused on skincare. She is also eager to return to the rugby field. Having recently signed with the Bristol Bears, she is set to make her debut with the team on January 5. This transition back to rugby follows her success on Dancing with the Stars, where she finished as the season's highest-placing female competitor along with her partner, Alan Bersten.
While Maher has no formal resolutions for the new year, she expressed her intention to embrace opportunities enthusiastically. "I don’t actually make New Year’s resolutions... I just say, ‘This is something I might want to try to do,’" Maher told Parade. Rather than setting restrictive goals, she aims to focus on 'emphatic yeses' and learning to say no to things she’s unsure about.
Part of Maher’s personal growth involves maintaining balance amid her busy schedule, which has included time spent living out of suitcases and constant travel since the Olympics concluded. "I want to be more present—whatever happens, happens," she remarked, aiming for not just professional but personal fulfillment.
Romantic interests do surface on her radar for 2025, but they don’t indicate priority. Like many ambitious individuals, Maher has clarified her need to focus on building her brand and nurturing relationships with friends and family. "I think if somebody enhances my life, I will take the opportunity, but for now, it’s about what really brings me joy," she affirmed.
Maher's aspirations extend as far as the upcoming World Cup and the chance to represent the United States at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. “It would be something so spectacular,” she said, hinting excitedly at the hopes many athletes share—competing on home soil and bringing their determination to fruition.
The collaboration with Paula’s Choice marks not only Maher’s transition from the dance floor back to the sports arena and skin care but also highlights her ability to fuse athletic prowess with brand ambassador savvy. This dual path paints Maher as more than just another athlete; she’s embracing her multifaceted identity as both sports enthusiast and skincare advocate.
Fans and followers eagerly await her contributions as she prepares to launch the new moisturizer and share her insights on self-care. The excitement surrounding Maher’s career endeavors promises to inspire many as they witness her fearless approach to life's challenges both on and off the field.
Ilona Maher is certainly not merely resting on her recent achievements; she’s gearing up for what promises to be both thrilling and transformative next steps, confidently bouncing between her diverse passions. This year, Maher plans to tackle the pitch, embodying her roles as both athlete and advocate, and aims for nothing less than leaving her mark.
