Who better than my mother to divulge Italian beauty secrets? Here are her rules, routines, and rituals.

When it comes to beauty, it seems everyone in the United States is so enamored of French women. But when I was in Italy, I was just as impressed by Italian women of all ages. Their beauty is a natural one: radiant sun-kissed skin, full eyebrows and lips, healthy, shiny hair. Of course, one of the most beautiful Italian women I know is my mother, and much of what I've learned about taking care of my skin comes from her. This passing down of beauty secrets is very typical in Italy, where women rely on the wisdom of their mothers and grandmothers for so many things, and I look forward to passing down some of my mom's tips to Jade when she gets a bit older. Until then, I'm sharing with all of you. I hope you enjoy them!

Giada De Laurentiis: What is the difference between the Italian and American attitudes toward beauty?

Veronica De Laurentiis: Italian women have a more natural approach to beauty. They use less makeup, and most of them appreciate the qualities of old age. A perfect example is my mother, Silvana Mangano, who aged gracefully, never afraid to change, and always stylish. Another Italian actress I love is Anna Magnani, who would tell her makeup artist, "Please, leave all my wrinkles. Don't try to hide them. It took me a lifetime to get them."

GDL: What makes an Italian woman feel beautiful?

VDL: Her own personal style. My rule has always been to create my own style and to only follow the trends I like. I don't necessarily follow the rules set by fashion because I like to mix and match and create my own look that reflects who I am. Your style is your signature.

GDL: What is the secret to Italian women's lovely skin?

VDL: Eating well: lots of veggies, fruits, and olive oil. Food here is still very good and very clean! And making time to enjoy life!

"Laugh a lot, and when you're older, all your wrinkles will be in the right places"

GDL: What beauty products would no Italian woman ever be caught without?

VDL: Moisturizing cream, perfume, and lipstick!

GDL: What is your beauty routine?

VDL: I clean my face morning and night with oil, rinse it with cool water, and then apply moisturizer with SPF for the day and a collagen cream for the night.

GDL: Do you have any beauty rules or rituals?

VDL: Never go to bed without cleaning my face, never go out without SPF protection on my face, and never lie in the sun to get a tan! My favorite beauty ritual is lighting scented candles and soaking in a bathtub filled with lavender bubble bath, lavender Epsom salts, a little baby oil, and a few drops of lavender oil. All my Italian friends love baths, too!

GDL: Anything else to add?

VDL: I love this quote: "Laugh a lot, and when you're older, all your wrinkles will be in the right places."