/ 09 August 2023

Beauty Secrets From A Top Supermodel

Imaan Hammam is one of the most recognisable models working today. A red-carpet chameleon, she’s known for her transformative beauty looks and for her love of skincare – which explains why she’s the newest face of Estée Lauder. We sat down with her to discuss her biggest beauty lessons, her haircare routine and the reason we should all be using argan oil.

By Rebecca Hull /

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@imaanhammam

My mum taught me some of my most important beauty lessons. She’s Moroccan and from a young age she instilled in me how important it was to look after my skin with natural oils. She used to bring lots back from Morocco and we would exfoliate weekly with homemade scrubs made from all-natural ingredients. We did lots of at-home face masks too, made using honey and yoghurt. I still use natural honey as a mask today; it can get messy but it’s the best remedy for tired skin. My mum knows the ins and outs of natural skincare like no one else.

Look after your skin, IMPROVE YOUR NUTRITION & MAKE TIME FOR EXERCISE & a good wellness routine – it all leads to a happier, healthier you.

My desert island product would be a serum. As I say, hydration is key and I find serums tend to give me the most moisture in my routine. The one I buy on repeat is Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair Serum. I’ve been using it for years – even before becoming an ambassador for the brand. Nothing beats it for instant moisture and glow – I use it every morning and night.

I don’t deviate from my strict routine. Once I’ve cleansed my skin, I follow up with my Heritage Store Rosewater mist – it’s the best if you want to instantly freshen up your skin. Then, I go in with my Estée Lauder serum and their gel-based eye cream, before layering up with Darphin’s Rose Oil and, if needed, a moisturiser on top to seal everything in.

@imaanhammam

My haircare routine is just as strict. It’s been a journey and my hair has been through a lot. I now get a moisturising treatment done monthly at the Pierre hotel in New York to keep it hydrated and to ensure my curls look shiny and nourished. I love scrunching in an oil occasionally, massaging my scalp as I go. It goes without saying that a dedicated curl shampoo and conditioner are essential. One of my favourite products for my hair is Christophe Robin’s Curl Crème which is full of chia seeds to revitalise curls after heat styling.

I love a good facial tool. The Osmosis Epic Skin Facial Tool is the best for immediate sculpting and contouring. It's great to use before an event or when I just need to look less puffy. I love an LED face mask, and use one regularly at home. I really notice the benefits when I wear it two or three times a week.

A new obsession of mine is MUD/WTR. I was recommended the mushroom drink as it’s full of adaptogens and organic ingredients that improve the look of your skin from the inside out. It’s what I reach for every morning as it contains a fraction of the caffeine coffee does – I’m trying to drink less as it can make me feel quite restless. If you’re after an alternative, I can’t recommend it enough.

For a skin overhaul, Tamara Tolordava is my go-to. I see her regularly at her Astute Aesthetics clinic in New York. Her treatments are incredible and include an hour of massage and lots of hydration. I walk out of her room feeling amazing every time. I go to her before fashion week or any other big events for extractions, peels and masks – she knows my skin like nobody else.

@imaanhammam

You’ll always find argan oil in my beauty kit. I’ve used it since I was a child to keep both my body and hair hydrated. I don’t use it daily, but it’s always there when I need it or if I am feeling particularly dry or dehydrated. Plus, it’s affordable. Speaking of budget buys, I love natural black soap too, and always stock up when I’m in Morocco. It’s brilliant for exfoliating skin and moisturising it simultaneously.

My make-up is always quite simple. It depends on my mood, but I tend to keep things pared back when I’m not working. I do, however, swear by lash curlers for opening my eyes and helping me look awake.

Supplements are essential. I never go to bed without taking some magnesium powder to help me sleep, but also to minimise stress and boost internal health. First thing, once I’ve had my MUD/WTR drink, I take primrose oil, Super You by Moon Juice and Raw Probiotics for Women. I’m a big believer that what you do on the inside counts on the outside.

My desert island product would be Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair Serum. It's perfect for BOOSTING MOISTURE AND GLOW.

A peaceful setting is key to relaxation. My schedule is busy, so at night I like to create a tranquil environment by lighting some incense sticks and listening to something on the Calm app. Working out also helps me unwind. I don’t know what I’d do without my personal trainer Stephen Cheuk from S10 Training – he’s helped me stay so focused.

My parting advice is to be confident and embrace who you are. If you believe in yourself, it shows and that’s beautiful. I really believe in showing up for yourself too. Look after your skin, improve your nutrition and make time for exercise and a good wellness routine – it all sounds obvious, but it all leads to a happier and healthier you.

Follow @ImaanHammam for more inspiration.