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Alexandra Burke's health and beauty masterclass

Since winning the X Factor in 2008, 21-year-old Alex Burke has found herself thrust firmly into the media spotlight. Speaking exclusively to iVillage.co.uk, she revealed how she manages to stay looking young and fresh - and it doesn't involve spending hours in the gym!

As a young woman very much on the media radar and constantly being scrutinised by the popular (and not so popular) press, Alexandra Burke has good reason to have 'issues' with her appearance.

However, while she admits to feeling a certain element of pressure, she's very much of the opinion that balance, occasional treats and inner confidence is the key to a healthy lifestyle.

Do you follow a particular fitness regime in order to stay in shape?

Alexandra Burke: Not really. I would like to set an example to people not to get caught up in the size zero thing.

The pressure is there because you see these people who are so slim and it makes you feel insecure. But the way I'm built is with thighs and a bum. I'm bigger down here and smaller up here.

You have to love what you are. If you're a curvaceous person, embrace that and love it. The moment you try to get involved in dieting regimes you can get lost and confused. If I've got a video coming up I will watch what I eat but if not I'll have the odd glass of wine or champagne. You've got to strike a balance. You should treat yourself once in a while.

Do you enjoy exercising or is it a bit of a chore?

Alexandra Burke: I've always been a dancer - I used to play badminton and do trampolining. I've always been active since I was little. But don't get me wrong - most exercise is just straight up boring! Who enjoys running on a treadmill?

Do you feel under pressure to look a certain way or are you fairly relaxed about your public image?

Alexandra Burke: There are times when I do because I'm only human and I'm a young girl. But thank god I've got good people around me to put a stop to that. Like my sister, my manager, my best friend. They take that crap out of my head. I'm grateful I've got strong people round me that can keep me on track and look out for me.

How would you describe your style?

Alexandra Burke: When I'm in interviews or just walking on the street, I'm just a casual chick. When I'm on stage, I like to have sex appeal, I like to get my legs out - I'm a completely different person. But on a normal day I like my jeans, my heels and a vest top.

If you could offer one piece of beauty advice, what would it be?

Alexandra Burke: Drink plenty of water. Hydration is the key. And Vaseline. You've got to keep the lips moist. Water clears your skin. When I was on X Factor I just drunk loads of water and it definitely stopped me having unwanted breakouts.

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