Hayek, 47, who starred in movies like 'Wild Wild West' and 'Frida', is married to French billionaire Francois-henri Pinault and the couple raise daughter Valentina.
Hayek says being beautiful is not the focus in her life, reported InStyle magazine.
"I know people have always thought I was beautiful, but I have never tried to be as beautiful as I can be. I could do a lot more-exercise, or not eat dessert," she says.
"Or not drink alcohol. I could make bigger efforts. I don't think my first priority in life has ever been beauty. It's a little bit of a rebellious spirit in me. There is more to me than looks, of course," the actress said.
"You've got to take who you are and love who you are and do the best you can with what you've got. That goes for the figure, and it goes for everything else. You've got to have a sense of humor about who you are and give yourself a break. You've got to be kind to yourself.