Camila Alves McConaughey Swears By This Brazilian Beauty Ritual That’s Trending Big Right Now

Camila Alves McConaughey is not a fan of chasing trends, and these days, that’s exactly the point. The entrepreneur, mom of three and founder of Women of Today embraces a refreshingly holistic approach, focusing on inside-out beauty with health and wellness at the core. Here, she opens up about the Brazilian secret she swears by, the supplements she trusts and the one indulgence she tries to make time for.

How would you describe your beauty philosophy today compared to when you were younger?

“When I was younger, I didn’t pay much attention to routines and the quality of beauty products. But as I get older, I understand more and more the importance of the quality of it all.”

What’s one beauty rule you’ve completely abandoned as you’ve gotten older?

“No trends! I follow what my body responds to and I do NOT look to younger people for beauty advice. I always look to mature women who look great to share their wisdom of what they have tried.”

Which beauty products and treatments do you think are actually worth the splurge?

“I love products that simplify my routine delivering beautiful results and skin care at once, which is why I’ve been reaching for the Lancôme Teint Idole Shape Stick ($46). I can use it as foundation, concealer or contour, and it gives my skin a natural, healthy finish without feeling heavy while having moisturizing benefits and vitamin E! It is a makeup-skincare hybrid! Beyond makeup, healthy skin is the best foundation.

I also recently tried HIFU facial with Dr. Sebagh, and I have to say I have seen results! But the most important lesson I’ve learned in beauty is that you can do all ‘the things,’ but if your body inflammation is high, you do not see great results. Keeping that inflammation down and seeing beauty from inside out-your health—is extremely important.”

Speaking of taking care of yourself from the inside out, which daily habits have made the biggest difference in how you look and feel?

“Throughout the years with my health, I have developed a very sensitive system, so I have to keep it all simple and back to basics! Low inflammation is key!

Lately, I’ve been learning that we lose a certain amount of fluids while we sleep. I would start my days with a plant-based milk matcha, but I learned that it was basically dehydrating my body after it was already dehydrated overnight. My acupuncturist suggested starting my day with a glass of water, and I have been having one bottle of water after brushing my teeth before ingesting anything else. I must say I have seen a tremendous difference on my skin and how I feel!

For supplements, I take vitamins D, C and A, as well as iron, every other day. I also take cold-pressed flax seed oil, which is fantastic for the skin, hair, nails and your insides! If you can get the European version, it doesn’t have the strong taste, and I do 1 teaspoon daily on my Greek yogurt. In addition, I try to do some kind of fasting or anti-inflammatory protocol for three weeks or so once a year.”

Are there any wellness practices you think are underrated that more women should adopt?

“Yes! Walking, hydration, sleep, lymphatics and good makeup for your skin!”

Which Brazilian beauty or wellness secrets do you think Americans should be incorporating into our routines?

“Lymphatic shaping massages in Brazil. It is part of our weekly routine and helps release any fluid accumulation and toxins, and the Brazilian technique shapes the body! It truly is fantastic if done as a consistent practice.”

What does fitness look like for you these days?

“At the moment, I am just coming out of a recovery period from my third surgery, so my word for fitness right now is ‘patience.’ This looks like slow walking, swimming, etc. Slow build is the name of the game for me at the moment.”

What’s something you do for your body now that you wish you’d started doing 20 years ago?

“Less sugar and more sleep! Paying more attention to what I eat and having my health as centerpiece.”

What is the most indulgent thing you do purely for yourself?

“Gosh…I wish I could tell you a great one, but at this season of my life, there is not much of that in the books…and I have zero problems with it! I guess, getting my nails done weekly if time allows.”

What exciting things are in your pipeline for the second half of the year?

“I am very excited about a project I just finished but can’t share just yet—more to come! In the meantime, Women of Today is doing awesome events, giving back to the community, better-for-you cooking and lifestyle content. Go check it out!”