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Sophia Loren reveals the simple secret behind her timeless beauty

The legendary star still enjoys the compliments she receives about her good looks, but she told TODAY's Al Roker, those looks aren't what she considers to be conventionally beautiful.
/ Source: TODAY

Ever since her big screen debut in 1950, Sophia Loren has been renowned for two things: her acting talent and her timeless beauty.

Now, at 81, the legendary star still enjoys the frequent compliments she receives about her good looks. But as she told TODAY's Al Roker, those looks aren't what she considers to be conventionally beautiful.

"It's nice to hear it," she said of the praise she receives before explaining that her brand of beauty "comes from inside."

Sophia Loren
Getty Images

"It's not even perfection," Loren explained. "I was unique. I was not beautiful in the sense like a doll."

Sophia Loren
Getty Images
Sophia Loren
Getty Images

She's maintained that unique look through six decades in the entertainment industry, appearing in almost 100 film and TV roles.

Sophia Loren
WireImage

MORE: Sophia Loren stuns in Dolce & Gabbana ad

And Loren believes her life — filled with love and family — fuels her "inside" beauty.

"I live for my family," she said. "I have the most beautiful grandchildren that I've ever seen in my life."

Sophia Loren
Getty Images

So when asked about the secret behind her enduring look, the answer was a simple one: "I'm happy! I live a wonderful life."

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