The old rules held that once a woman reached a certain age, she embraced the 'art of the cover-up' What I mean by that is that (in general) hair get shorter and darker (the better to cover grey kind of, nor for me though ;)), clothes get more buttoned-up (the better to cover a flabby figure, lol - nor me again ;)), and makeup gets heavier (the better to cover wrinkles right?). To non, of those mentioned, I can relate!! Period. Today, women as myself too, are throwing those antiquated ideas out the window and certainly looking younger for it. My hair is lighter and longer, body is strong(er) and firm(er), and makeup is sheer and radiant. I am, in my 40's, celebrating my own unique looks, even if they don't resemble any of the 'celebrities kind of'. Whatever - I am who I am and I sure embrace every part of my body. In the end of the day - I call it life after 40. I simply love it! And if you have already reached your 40's, then this is for you, my
rules for putting your best face and figure forward. Yes, without a doubt!!
1. Flattering hair
Forget about hair dye that could double as shoe polish. Mainly, say goodbye to that boring blunt cut. Feel free to embrace your inner 'Rapunzel or Cinderella'. ;) Many looks actually work just as well on a woman in her 40s as they do on a 15-year-old. Just remember, to not 'over do' sh... on your hair. Let it be. Free, fresh and flattering at all times. And when if it's not, just put it up in a bun ;). Simple as that.
2. Focus on daily exercise
Age may be a state of mind, but when it comes to the state of my body, there is no escaping reality !! Copy this!! ( further, namely, the effects of gravity, childbearing, and a slowing metabolism. And trust me, we all got it). And what is my biggest weapon 'DAILY EXERCISE'.
However, rather than just recommending hours of aerobic activity, I now stress out the importance of strength training. Yes you heard me right! 'Working with weights or even just the resistance of your own body weight, is (without a doubt) one of the most important things you can do as you age!! Beside, u have to remember, that bone density is directly improved by resistance exercise. Plus, if you reduce body fat with cardiovascular exercise, working the muscles underneath will give your skin something to hang on to. I suggest doing a few simple strength exercises for only about 20 minutes a day, coupled with approx. 20 minutes of activities such as bike riding (to my city biking is the one ;)). More or less, just make a difference with daily - whatever you do -to improve your fitness focus!
3. Saving my skin
Once, the options were to age gracefully or go under the knife. Now there are an increasing number of products (among new technologies) to repair the ravages of time. However, some things, never change. Like healthy lifestyle choices, such as using sun protection (which I do, daily), not smoking (which I do not) and staying well hydrated (certainly on a mission to drink enough water throughout the day) - can dramatically improve my appearance. If only you try out these simple things - I assure you to see results in not time!
4. Makeup simplicity
When it comes to cosmetics and makeup I am 'less is more'. To me, too much makeup adds years instantly! Instead of reaching for the pan-cake of years past, I suggest to try shimmering products, which can brighten older skin ;) Simply give your face a soft glow. Whatever looks best for you is a go. To me natural look, and natural beauty, is inevitable at all stages. Do it, just do not 'over do it' ;)
5. Avoiding sun damage
When I hit my 40's, I starting to see the sun damage I did as a teenager. That means wrinkles, brown spots, and burst blood vessels. What now? I, daily, try to undo a lot of the damage, with moisturisers containing alpha-hydroxy acid and glycolic acid, does wonders to some :) Beside products containing diluted acid can help your skin shed its top layer of dead, damaged cells. Products like this also stimulate production of collagen, help skin retain elasticity, and minimise the formation of new wrinkles ;) However, a more gentle approach for my skin (the one that I lean to, most of the time) are antioxidant based creams containing ingredients such as vitamin C or green tea, which have a similar stimulating effect (Also, bare in mind you can get dose of vitamin C via correct nutrition). Just find something as natural as possible and If it does suit your skin, stick to it for a while :) Just remember to take care of your skin and be gentle to it.
There are some other things you should take into consideration, like smoking if you do smoke. I do not have a particular advise here (as I do no smoke), but if you do - you should quit right now and find some other entertainment ;) You will feel better and smell better ;) No offence here! Just an honest opinion.
Tend to be better each day, you know what's right or wrong. Just do not believe you are 'old' now that you've reached your 40's. To me, 40's are new 20's ;) You decide!
Until next time, S.
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