Why Ada Nicodemou’s on a mission to be ‘real’ on social media
You won’t find Facetuned photos on Home and Away star Ada Nicodemou’s social media channels – and there is a really important reason for that.
In the world of celebrity, it’s commonplace for celebs to alter their appearance, and the practice regularly leads to epic fails.
Think of Lena Dunham mysteriously missing an arm, or impossibly thin models, courtesy of overzealous digital editing.
Celebs from Kim Kardashian to Beyoncé have been accused of distorting their photos in pursuit of the perfect image.
But when it comes to her social media, Home and Away star Ada Nicodemou is loud and proud about keeping it real.
Leading the way with openness and honesty
For the sceptics, her Instagram account carries a disclaimer: “My photos are real, no Photoshop, no Facetune.”
“I think it’s important that every photo I put up is just me,” the actress, 43, says.
“It’s important for people who follow me to know that I don’t sit there touching up. I might use the odd filter, or lighten something. But it’s just me and I think we should be putting up real photos. I think it’s important for kids to see that.”
Nicodemou is equally upfront about the rewards of her posts, and makes a point of disclosing paid brand ambassadorships such as Nature’s Way Beauty Collagen supplements.
“I was using the product prior to being an ambassador for them so it was a really natural fit,” she says.
“Absolutely I tell people that I’m being paid for posts, and I don’t apologise for being paid for posts. It’s a business. We make money from it.
“But I want people to know that I’ve made money from it and I also choose the work I do as well, so I’ve got to believe in the product and it’s got to fit with my image and what I’m into. So I’ve made a point of always disclosing that.”
‘There are so many unattainable images out there’
While Ada is comfortable navigating social media for herself, she appreciates how hard it can be for parents raising kids in the digital age.
“It’s a really difficult time, isn’t it? Obviously having a son (eight-year-old Johnas) is a different challenge,” she says.
“It’s harder for young girls; there are so many unattainable images out there and they’re not real, we don’t look like that.
“How do you teach your daughters that it’s not all about how they look, and to stop pulling other people down for how they look?
“Magazines are starting to use Photoshop less. I think there’s a movement against all that now, we’re getting there.”
- Self-love: 5 practical steps to bolster your body image
How Ada stays happy in the skin she’s in
Ada says regular exercise is essential to keep her body and mind fighting fit.
“I love doing weight training now. As I get older I’m getting into it a lot more,” she says.
“I love walking, being outside. Pilates, boxing, I like to change it up. And I love dancing.
“I have a love/hate relationship with running. My body doesn’t like it. But I know it gets results, and you feel so great afterwards.
“You need to mix it up, it’s like your skincare routine. You’ve got to change up exercise so you don’t get bored and it shocks your body as well.”
As popular Leah in the long-running soap, Ada spends long hours in heavy screen make-up that can wreak havoc on the complexion.
Yet she takes a reasonably no-fuss approach to her skincare regimen.
“I try to exfoliate once a week and do masks when I have time,” she says.
“It’s amazing how much harder it is to fit in when you’re a mum. I used to have regular facials, but now I don’t have as much time I tend to go for laser facials or skin needling.
“I’m more into that stuff the older I get. I try to use active ingredients as well.”
More celebrity news:
- The healthy habits that keep Chris Hemsworth in peak shape
- Why Angie Kent will be ‘forever grateful’ for The Bachelorette despite break-up
- Shane Warne: ‘It’s important for men to look after themselves’
Written by Anna Brain. Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet. Always read the label.
