Model Maria Borges’s Beauty Tips Involve Ice Cubes and Avocado Oil

Model Maria Borges is a trendsetter. In 2015, the Angolan beauty was the first to appear in a Victoria’s Secret fashion show with a short, natural afro. The following year, she wasn’t alone. “It was such a great opportunity to showcase this natural Afro. This year, I feel happy still because I see two other girls with short hair and they are beautiful,” she explained backstage. So, it’s no surprise that the W favorite, who most recently appeared alongside Irina Shayk in W’s May 2016 issue, is the newest brand ambassador for L’Oréal Paris. Here, the 24-year-old reveals her beauty secrets, from her exercise regime to her fragrance of choice.

Your look in three looks: Natural, classic, creative.

Five-minute routine: Every morning I wash my face with cold-filtered water—Beauty Water by Jonathan—and then I apply coconut oil as a moisturizer on my face and body.

Never leave the house without: A lip gloss and moisturizer.

Beauty from the inside out: You need to make peace with yourself, loving your body, loving your features and your skin, accepting who you are and what you are. The harmony will clearly show.

Exercise regime: I’ve never have been obsessed with sports, but I like to do things that I enjoy like spinning, yoga, and zumba classes.

Beauty essentials: Green Routine shampoo and conditioner from Jonathan, Bobbi Brown foundation and face cream, MAC blush, Givenchy mascara, Victoria’s Secret lip gloss, and Chanel powder.

Skincare secrets: I exfoliate my body to get rid of dead skin, I rub an ice cube on my face before applying makeup, and I use avocado oil on my face before bed.

In-tub must read: I enjoy Paulo Coelho; the messages in his books are personal and help you to learn life lessons.

Spa-cation at: Caudalie Vinotherapie at The Plaza.

Fragrance of choice: Narciso Rodriguez.

Best advice from mom: Never forget where you come from because that is who you are and always pursue your dreams.

Best advice from the pros: As the great Edward Enninful [W’s fashion director] told me once, “no matter where you go, you should never lose your essence.”

Beauty icons: I look up to all the great supermodels that changed the way the world saw women of color—especially, Naomi Campbell, my idol.