Passionate spokesperson, theologian, model and electric performer Ava Golban believes that beauty goes beyond what we see on the surface. If you want to find true beauty, look deeper to find the real story. Ava gives us invaluable tips from the real world, and talks to us about what is behind her veil:
HBZVN: Ava, you’ve been in the spotlight for a while—modeling, public speaking, and even singing—so, how do you manage all that?
AVA GOLBAN: Everything you’ve mentioned brings me fulfillment, and I don’t see any downsides. The only potential drawback might be burnout, but that occurs only if seeking validation becomes a sole purpose. In my paradigm, I don’t need to wave away any of my passions; I choose to embrace them all at once. I have my to-do list and boxes to check, but I’m not in a rush and I trust that miracles are on my side. I feel that being in balance with my creative flow, brings me tons of energy, inspires me and then takes me to another level. [LOL] And, where that level exists, is always a happy surprise to myself.
HBZVN: You radiate confidence and sensuality. How do you define sensuality in your life and work?
AVA GOLBAN: [Pauses thoughtfully] That’s a challenging question. I’m not sure that anyone can define one’s own sensuality. To me, it’s something superimposed, like someone else’s personal opinion about you. Poet and mystic Rumi describes sensuality as being “not a product of the skin and flesh; it is a condition of the mind and heart.” Sensuality intertwines with our primal instincts, evoking a raw, magnetic energy in the room, much like sexual attraction. Which means, when you exude sexy and sensual vibes, you are exuding something deeper from within—and this world would be so much a better place, if humanity reflects on things bigger than just instincts and external appearances.
HBZVN: You are truly beautiful inside. So, let’s talk about external beauty, can you walk us through your daily beauty routine? What are the must-have products that you can’t live without?
AVA GOLBAN: Okay, my routine involves three basic but essential products: the face wash, toner and a cream or serum as a final touch. I can talk about it for hours, but let’s focus on some trendy products, it would be cleansing gel with Barbados Cherry by Fenty Beauty (by Rihanna), and, also Glow Watermelon Toner.
HBZVN: Beyond specific beauty products what is also essential for someone like you with a busy lifestyle?
AVA GOLBAN: I don’t believe in external effects much. A glass of hot water in the morning, eating clean, staying physically active, taking care of your body, and checking your hormones—these are what matter. The bottom line, there’s no cream in the whole entire world, which can take care of your skin if you’re neglecting this list.
HBZVN: Traveling often can be tough on the skin. How do you adapt your beauty routine while on the road, particularly when visiting different climates?
AVA GOLBAN: Flying is really tough for my skin. I’m trying to eat lots of fiber, have a cup of a hot water during the flight, and then enough sleep afterwards. Regarding hydration—it would be a thicker cream in a dry climate, and serum in humid and hot ones.
HBZVN: Living in New York City comes with its unique beauty challenges. How does your routine change when you’re in the hustle and bustle of the city?
AVA GOLBAN: Oh, yes. I have one really dirty secret here! [LOL]. I’m not sure if it’s rough water or dry air, but most of the time I literally hear how my skin “dry crackles” here in New York. So, I can’t live without “udder” cream.
HBZVN: What are you using Udder cream for, and where are you getting it?
AVA GOLBAN: For everything! Especially, living in a city that has cold winters, “udder” cream can help soften and soothe chapped, dry, or rough skin. It can also help protect skin from other harsh weather conditions. So, I use it a few times a week for my face. But, in winter I use it daily for my cheeks and nose. For my feet and heels it’s become a must, in fact, all over my body, including my dry lips to help moisturize them. It feels really nice and my skin is instantly so glowing and rich. You can get it in a farmer’s store. My favorite one is definitely from my home country, and the name is Zor’ka. Tadaaan! [LOL].
HBZVN: You’ve spent time in Vietnam. What differences have you noticed in beauty products and routines between there and the United States?
AVA GOLBAN: Like all Asian countries, definitely there are hundreds of products for whitening the skin. I really appreciate that Vietnamese skin care focuses on natural ingredients and traditional remedies. Cultural influences and climate considerations significantly shape these beauty practices, leading to distinct preferences in each country.
HBZVN: The sun in Vietnam can be really harsh. What are your favorite sunscreen products?
AVA GOLBAN: I don’t use SPF, but I’m a big fan of bột ngọc trai (pearl powder) and bột từ cây nhựa (tree resin powder), which are traditional remedies used in Vietnam. These pastes can be made from various natural ingredients, including clay and plant extracts, and are often applied for their soothing properties against sunburn and skin irritation. Some of these remedies may include ingredients like tamarind or rice powder, mixed with water or oils to create a protective paste. They are valued for their natural sun protection and healing properties. I appreciate that they are eco-friendly, and I make sure to order them from local sources whenever I have the opportunity.
HBZVN: What role does skincare play in your life as a singer, especially when performing and being under bright stage lights?
AVA GOLBAN: Sounds too fancy. [LOL] A splash of a fresh water in my face in the morning, a good splash of the udder cream after the spotlights and being on stage or in the studio. Thank heavens I work in this field for fun, and no one is bossing me or trying to change me. I just love to sing and perform. Overall, I don’t push myself too hard, and if I’m tired, no one will convince or push me to damage my skin, hair and body.
HBZVN: How do you maintain a healthy balance between beauty standards in modeling and embracing your natural self?
AVA GOLBAN: Hopefully I do. When it comes to the body, I don’t concern myself with societal standards; instead, I am a passionate advocate for good health and discipline. For me, the relevant questions are: Does my body look healthy? Does it feel loved? Am I a good friend to my body? Do I understand how it works well enough to be a better friend to it? These are the only standards that truly matter to me, not societal standards.
HBZVN: Can you share your thoughts on the importance of inner beauty and self-confidence in the modeling and music industries?
AVA GOLBAN: I believe that our appearance and talents don’t belong to us. Nature gave us a treasure to take care of. Would you hide it? Do you have any right to hide something that beautiful, big and beneficial to this world. So, shine on! “Shine bright! Like a diamond!”
HBZVN: Actress Demi Moore recently appeared in The Substance, a movie about an aging and bullied Hollywood star who experiments with a drug that creates a revitalized version of herself—how do you feel about the bullying judgment about a woman’s looks today?
AVA GOLBAN: I agree with actress Moore, who says she doesn’t give any weight or power to harassing criticism and judgment. She bravely says she’s learned to just let it roll off her, and she’s 61 and lovely. Yes, publishers and media types say that youth and sex sells, so they push that “weight” on you. Personally, there’s something more precious nowadays—femininity. That’s what is rare, elegant, seductive and so much more engaging, than just raw, striking sex which is pushed into our faces from every direction. Sensuality is a litmus test for female self-confidence and it starts from within, so, it’s more lasting and of more value than just physical appearance.
Model: Ava Golban @happyavaofficial.
Photographer: Roger Cabello @cabellonyc.
Dress: Diana Mahrach @dianamahrachcouture.
Interview: Ashley Collie @ashleyjudecollie.
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
