Beauty Icon Natalie Portman: Interview

Behind the Scenes Interview with Natalie Portman

Leave it to a Harvard grad to endorse a perfume for intellectual reasons: "I like the idea behind it—it's playful, chic, Parisian," says Natalie Portman of Miss Dior Chérie, a fresh, bright scent that blends green tangerine, pink jasmine, and a touch of patchouli. The actress's latest role is in the fragrance's ad campaign. We talked to her about all things beautiful.

When do you wear perfume?"On special occasions. If it's a big night out with someone I love. It's like putting on nice jewelry. I think it makes every woman feel more feminine."

What's the one product you use daily?"Joëlle Ciocco Sensitive Cleansing Milk. It smells delicious, it's really natural, and it protects my skin."

Is there any look you don't think you can pull off?"I'm slowly being eased into red lipstick. I think it looks really chic on other people, but I've always felt a bit silly with it on."

What's a beauty trend you'd never try in a million years? "Plastic surgery. I feel like everyone is trying to look like the same person, and it usually makes people look older than they are."

Growing up in front of the camera, did you develop any beauty hang-ups?
"When I did photo shoots, the mole on my cheek was always Photoshopped out. No one said anything to my face, but I felt like I was being told that it was ugly. Finally, I said, 'No! This is part of me. I'm not a model. I'm photographed because of who I am—and that includes the mole!'"

How do you relax when you're working?"Acupuncture keeps me balanced and calms my nerves."

Who are your beauty icons? "I love Audrey Hepburn, of course, with her cat eyes and thick eyebrows. And I love Lauren Hutton in the '70s with those curls and her big eyes and her beautiful teeth!"

Behind the Scenes: Natalie Portman: allure.com