Here are 7 of the best well-kept beauty secrets of models that are healthy, realistic, and seriously inspiring.
Before we start, I want to make one thing crystal clear. This isn’t a guide to perfection.
I am not going to share any crash diets, airbrushed expectations, or 15-step routines that will make you look flawless.
I am also not here to tell you to look like someone else, and definitely not to chase beauty standards that were never made with you in mind.
Yes, there was a time when being a model equated all that, but thanks to the rise in wellness, models are taking good care of themselves, and it shows.
Most models you see these days are following intentional habits that are adding up in their favor over time.
That is the only reason why I did my research on this topic and am writing about it.
This post is for the girl who’s ever looked at a model’s glowing skin and effortless hair, and wondered how to make that happen for herself, while still staying authentic.
Read on to discover 7 best model beauty secrets to look more polished, radiant, and glowy!
7 Model Beauty Secrets Worth Trying
1. They Take Skincare Very Seriously
Most models will tell you that skincare is their foundation, not makeup. None of them are born with glass skin.
Their glow usually comes from consistency, hydration, and knowing what their skin actually needs.
A lot of them swear by double cleansing, especially after long days of makeup or being outside. It’s not a gimmick; I can personally vouch for that.
The first cleanse (usually with an oil-based cleanser) breaks down makeup and SPF, while the second (a gentle water-based cleanser) actually cleans the skin.
Dewy skin is a common denominator among models.
It comes from layering lightweight, moisture-rich products like toners, essences, serums, and moisturizers, instead of relying on one heavy cream.
This might scream luxurious, I know, but they actually do this to build up moisture in layers. Hydration, babe!
And also, many models still swear by an ice cube facial.
Cold water, cryo tools, or just a good old ice roller can shrink puffiness and wake up your tired skin like nothing else, especially before a shoot or event.
Ice therapy is most cherished part of my morning skincare routine. It’s free, it’s fast, and it actually works.
2. Their Makeup is Breathable
Once your skin is taken care of, your makeup doesn’t have to do much heavy lifting, and that’s kind of the point.
Most off-duty models go for sheer skin-tint formulas instead of full-coverage foundations.
Products like Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint and NARS Tinted Moisturizer let your real skin show through, while still evening everything out just enough.
Coming to highlighter, models don’t aim for sparkle, but radiance.
They apply cream or balm highlighters only to the high points of the face, where light would naturally hit, like your cheekbones, brow bones, and maybe a touch on the tip of the nose.
This will give you a barely-there glow that catches the light in just the right way.
I have noticed that models make their brows fluffy instead of filled in. Fluffy brows are able to frame the face instead of dominating it.
And also, use a clear or tinted brow gel brushed upward. It will do more for your face than five different pencils.
3. They Make Healthy Eating Fun
When it comes to eating for your body, things can be a little complicated. But they don’t have to be.
Most models eat in a way that supports their energy instead of depriving it, and they make the process very fun.
The 80/20 approach is pretty standard in their world, and I myself find it very helpful to follow.
According to this rule, 80% of your everyday diet should have whole nourishing food and the rest 20% can be flexible and fun.
That could mean eggs and greens in the morning, sushi at lunch, pasta and wine with friends at night.
How cool is that?! Your diet doesn’t have to be all in or all out.
Models also think of food as a long-term investment in their skin, hair, and mood.
You’ll often find omega-3s, berries, leafy greens, and collagen-rich meals in their regular rotation. Not because of trends, but because it helps them feel and look their best.
And of course, how can we forget hydration. It plays a huge role too.
Start your day with water, just a glass before your coffee, and keep drinking throughout the day.
It will reduce puffiness and keep everything flowing, from digestion to circulation to that natural glow!
4. They Do Enjoyable Workouts
Contrary to what you might assume, most models aren’t in the gym 24/7 doing punishing workouts.
They find movement they actually enjoy, and they do it often.
Pilates, barre, yoga, and long walks are some of the most common go-tos. I have a friend in this industry who swears by ankle weights and going for 30 minute walks.
These workouts focus on toning, balance, and posture, all things that contribute to the model silhouette, but also make you feel more connected to your body.
And here’s something worth noting. Many of them do these workouts at home, in short bursts, without fancy equipment.
These habits are what build real strength over time, and makes you look forward to moving your body.
More than intensity, it’s about being consistent, you know. Because that’s what brings you results and helps you maintain them.
5. Sleep Is Their Ultimate Beauty Hack
There’s not a serum on earth that can fake a good night’s sleep.
Models are often on early call times and weird travel schedules, so when they’re off-duty, sleep becomes sacred.
So, when they can afford good sleep, they go all in by treating it like a goddess ritual.
Dim the lighting at night, no screens before bed, calming tea or magnesium, and a silk eye mask and pillowcase.
These are such feminine habits that can actually help your body rest better at night, and also make sleep feel like a cozy dream (which it is supposed to be).
And because the skin repairs itself while you sleep, many models load up on rich moisturizers or overnight masks to maximize that repair time.
So fun, right?
6. They Look After Their Lips, Hair, and Everything In Between
It’s not just about the face and shape of body. Models also pay close attention to the little details that quietly elevate their whole look.
Lips are exfoliated and moisturized regularly (a quick sugar scrub or even a toothbrush does the trick). And they use good stuff for their lips.
Hair is often treated more than it’s styled. That means scalp care, heatless waves, deep conditioning masks, and letting the natural texture shine.
And yes, the body gets love too. Dry brushing, regular exfoliation, and layering oils and creams keep the skin soft and glowy.
Their nail game is always on point, whether they do it themselves or get it done professionally. That means, clean, trimmed, neat, and pretty colored nails.
These are all small habits, but they give models a smooth finish that we all notice. Time for you to join in too!
7. Their Beauty Starts In The Mind
Being a model is by no means easy. It may seem glamorous on the outside, but it takes a lot out of them.
They are constantly judged for how they look, but the ones who last in the industry are the ones who build their confidence from within.
The way they move, how they speak, the energy they give off — it all stems from self-connection.
That’s not something you can buy, my friend. It’s something only self-care and good mental health can give you.
It comes from how you talk to yourself, how you take care of yourself, and how you show up when no one is watching.
They affirm themselves, instead of attacting and criticizing. They protect their peace, and they know that beauty is felt first, then seen.
They take breaks from work whenever possible, and also know when to rest and recharge.
So if you take anything away from this post, let it be this:
You don’t need to change who you are. Just take care of yourself really, really well. That’s what you need the most.
What It All Comes Down To
At the end of the day, model beauty secrets are really just about being intentional with every single thing you pour into your body and mind.
It’s about creating rituals that make you feel, whether that’s through skincare, movement, nourishment, or just turning your phone off at 10 p.m.
Now go drink some water, brush your brows, and put on SPF. Be a model for yourself, and you’ll start feeling like one in no time.
