theSKIN x Ava Taghioff

@ 2025-08-18 16:47:31 -0700

Ava Taghioff is rewriting the definition of balance. Between photoshoots and the classroom, she’s navigating two worlds that rarely overlap—yet she’s finding purpose in both. Modeling may look like the dream, but for Ava, higher education is where she’s building something deeper: resilience, independence, and a sense of self that can’t be taught on set. Her journey hasn’t followed the straight line most expect, but detours like a transformative gap year gave her the confidence to own her path on her own terms.


We caught up with Ava on USC’s campus to talk about what it really means to grow, the rituals that keep her grounded, and why learning will always be her ultimate power move.

Balancing a modeling career and school isn't easy. How do you make it work while studying at USC?

One thing I really love about USC is how much they encourage students to have careers outside of school. It creates such a supportive environment for balancing both. I always make sure to stay in touch with my professors and stay on top of assignments, especially if I know I’ll need to miss class for work. I also have to give a lot of credit to my agents — they’ve been incredibly supportive of my education and always help plan a schedule that lets me balance everything!

Self-care often takes a backseat when life gets busy. How do you make space for it in your routine? Is there a ritual you always return to before stepping in front of the camera? And which Facile product is always part of that routine?

Skincare has become one of my favorite ways to practice self-care, and I always make time for it in the morning and at night, no matter how busy things get. It’s honestly really therapeutic for me and such a grounding part of my day. Before shoots, I like to keep it simple with just a serum, moisturizer, and something hydrating for my lips. Barely There and the Lip Jelly are two things I always use. They make my skin feel refreshed and ready without doing too much.

With your modeling career gaining momentum, what fuels your drive to stay committed to finishing your degree at USC?

I’ve always been really passionate about my education. I really enjoy learning and being in an environment where I’m constantly growing and thinking in new ways. Modeling is such a creative outlet for me, but school gives me a different kind of fulfillment. It reminds me that I’m building something for myself outside of just work.

Can you share a defining moment—whether from college or the modeling world that fundamentally shaped who you are today?

Taking a gap year to model between my first year at NYU and transferring to USC was one of the most important experiences I’ve had. I became way more independent and confident, not just in modeling but in myself. It really pushed me to grow up in the best way and gave me time to figure out who I am and what I want. I came back more sure of myself, more experienced, and just a better version of who I was before.

Our skin often mirrors our inner state. How would you describe your relationship with your skin during life’s busiest moments? And in what ways does Facile help you maintain balance when everything feels chaotic?

When life gets chaotic, I’ve learned that it’s even more important to take care of my skin. Stress and lack of sleep always seem to show up there first. It took me a while to find a routine that truly worked, and Facile was the first thing that really made a difference in my skin. Their products are gentle and targeted, so I can adjust my routine depending on what my skin needs. It helps me feel more in control, even when everything around me feels overwhelming.

Looking back, what’s the one piece of advice you wish you’d received before your very first shoot, something that would have changed your perspective?

I wish someone had told me not to overthink everything. At my first shoot, I was so focused on doing everything perfectly that I forgot to just be present and have fun with it. The best moments come when you let go a little and trust yourself :)