Supermodel Joan Smalls knows how to work hard (incredibly hard!) but she also knows how to play hard—and she shares her good times with her fans. Smalls posted a picture on Instagram of herself wearing a beautiful purple print bikini as she lounged on the sand, showcasing her natural beauty. How does she stay so fit? Read on to see 5 ways Smalls stays in shape and the photos that prove they work—and to get beach-ready yourself, don't miss these essential 30 Best-Ever Celebrity Bathing Suit Photos!
1. Warm Water and Lemon
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Smalls likes to ease into her day with lemon and hot water. “I start my day with a glass of warm water and lemon because it's so good for your digestion, your skin, and even for your metabolism,” she says. “I also use coconut oil to remove makeup and I also put it on my eyelashes and the tips of my hair to promote growth.”
2. Portion Control Is Key
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Smalls tries to incorporate vegetables into her daily diet whenever possible—and is mindful of portions. “[My trainer, Marc Gardon] tried to have me write down my daily diet, and I never filled it out because I felt guilty if I had pizza for lunch, and rice, and this meat, and that meat, and pancakes, and bacon. And he would be like, ‘Joan, where are the vegetables?!’ (Laughs). But one thing I did learn with [Marc] is portion control because a lot of people tend to overeat even though they’re already full. And I started drinking juices that contain vegetables. Baby steps!”
3. Face Masks On the Weekend
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Smalls likes to indulge in face masks on the weekends. “I do a lot of masks at the weekends. I go to the gym a lot so before I go I apply a deep conditioner and use coconut oil and organic oil as DIY masks. I then put my hair in a bun, go to the gym and workout. The heat from the workout allows the nutrients to seep into your skin. I usually wait an hour before washing everything out.”
4. She Says “Love Yourself”
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Smalls says her best beauty advice is self-love and acceptance. “To love yourself, love how you look and work with what you have,” she says. “We don’t all have to look the same, and I love it when people create their own identity. I follow @uglyworldwide on Instagram, which is run by a girl who shaved her eyebrows and creates crazy make up looks. She has her own smile and a big smile (which is often accessorized!). I wouldn’t wear everything she does but I admire that she is 100% herself. I think that's what beauty really is.”
5. No Food Is Off Limits
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Smalls makes a point of being sensible about her diet rather than restrictive. "I don't believe in dieting because I'm Puerto Rican, and it's really hard to not eat what you love," she says. "It's in my blood to eat rice and beans, so I've learned to manage portions because you get to eat a little bit of what you absolutely love and crave."