Shahnaz Husain
There seems to be too much emphasis on a youthful look, where beauty and fashion are concerned. If you belong to an older age group, there is no need to despair. There are qualities that come only with maturity, like elegance, grace and charm. In fact, an older woman, who is poised and self-confident, elegantly groomed and charming, can be far more attractive. Yes, you can even be a glamorous grandmother.
Between the ages of forty and fifty, women have to confront menopause, which not only has an effect on physical appearance, but also presents other problems.
Age-related changes also show up on the skin, hair and figure. Lines and tiny wrinkles appear on the skin, along with thinning hair. Even the contours of the face change as we age. Many women experience growth of facial hair, as a result of a fall in estrogen levels. Apart from menopause, this can also be a time when the woman goes through the “empty nest” syndrome. Her children are grown up and settled, looking after themselves. Her self-esteem or self-worth can be low at this time. It requires a lot of effort to deal with all these changes.
What is needed most of all is to be able to come to terms with aging in a positive way. Take an honest look at yourself and find out the areas that need improvement. For instance, if there is weight gain, adopt a weight loss programme, or learn yoga. In fact, losing weight can take the years off and make you feel younger and more attractive. A woman who has been following a healthy diet and lifestyle, finds it easier to cope with changes, as she ages. Actually, regular exercise helps to delay aging changes and has a beneficial effect on both body and mind. It keeps the muscles and joints flexible and prevents problems like osteoporosis. Walking is excellent, as it helps to exercise the entire body. Along with exercise, adopt a healthy eating pattern, with an emphasis on fresh fruits, unrefined cereals, salads, sprouts, lightly cooked vegetables, yogurt and skimmed milk, clear soups, fresh fruit juices. Your diet should be low in fats, sugar and starch, but high in vitamins and minerals. This kind of diet will raise your level of fitness and also help your skin and hair.
Your skin-care routine should include cleansing, toning, moisturizing and nourishing. With age, the activity of the oil glands decreases and the skin becomes drier. Daily moisturizing and nourishing help to keep the skin soft, supple and youthful. Pay special attention to the neck and the area around the eyes, which show age most of all. Nowadays specialized products are available for the care of particular areas, like the eyes. Avoid massaging the skin around the eyes, as it can get easily pulled and stretched. The application of outer-eye creams helps to maintain the elasticity of the skin and prevent early wrinkles.
Take weekly facials at a good beauty salon. Professional massages, along with cleansing, toning and masks really help to rejuvenate the skin. The skin’s ability to retain moisture improves and so does the process of cell renewal. Skin-care clinics also offer treatments for problems associated with aging skins. One of these is pigmentation, like dark spots or patches. Avoiding sun-exposure and the use of sunscreens are part of the treatment. Intensive moisturizing and revitalization of the skin can help to improve its condition.
Hair problems are common during menopause. Ask your doctor to prescribe vitamin and mineral supplements. Regular washing and proper hair care helps to a large extent. Along with this, one can have clinical treatments to check problems of hair loss. A change of hairstyle can also make you feel like a new person. In fact, with thinning hair, you can go in for a shorter haircut and style, which can give the hair a fuller look and make you look younger.
Your attitude helps to feel good about yourself. Keep an open mind. Try out something new. You never know, it may suit you. Be subtle with make-up and accessories. Cultivate your interests and hobbies. Learn something new. They give another dimension to the personality and make you feel more active and youthful.
According to Sophia Loren, the famous film star, “There is a fountain of youth – it is your mind, your talents and creativity that you bring to life and to the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age.”
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