The 3 Instagram Filters That Celebrities Love for Selfies

As if celebs like Alexa Chung and Lily Aldridge weren’t already gorgeous enough, along came Instagram (almost a decade ago!) to illuminate their beauty even more. When you have well over a million followers (as all of these ladies do), you’re probably going to put a little extra effort into choosing your filters for selfies (no pressure). Sure, many among us use photo editing apps like VSCO, Snapseed, and Facetune (no judgment from us!), sometimes all you need is a good old-fashioned Instagram filter, and many celebs agree.

Wanting to know the secret picture-snapping formula to jaw-dropping selfies, we did a little detective work and started to notice a pattern amongst the most striking photos: The same filters appear over and over. While lighting, makeup, and wardrobe certainly play a factor, these "special effects" ensure that your selfies show you at your best. Get ready to induce a little Insta-envy of your own if you choose to follow the lead of these It girls.

Read on to find out which ultra-flattering Instagram filters celebrities love.

It's hard to replicate the flattering, sun-kissed glow that Valencia gives to a photo, especially on an already sunny day.

To sum Mayfair up, it’s like you but better! It enhances color with a soft pink cast and focuses light at the center of the photo. In fact, studies show that Mayfair-enhanced photos get the most likes.

The washed-out effect of the under-the-radar Walden filter gets an A for blurring imperfections. It’s perfect for sunny-day selfies.

Update: The Walden filter has been discontinued but try Hudson for a similar effect.