It is impossible to stop the aging process. No amount of cosmetics, skin care products or healthy habits will keep you looking 20 years old forever. However, there are certain things you can do to minimize the signs of aging. By taking care of yourself properly and investing a little extra time and attention in your appearance, you can create a more youthful, appealing look for yourself.
Sleep
One of the consequences of sleep deprivation is an aged appearance. According to Allure magazine’s article “5 Ways to Look Younger.” republished on the MSNBC Today website, without proper rest, you will develop dark under-eye circles and your complexion will appear dull and tired. Therefore, getting an extra hour of sleep each night is an easy way to give you a more youthful appearance. You may need to change your schedule a little to manage an earlier bedtime each night, but the extra rest will improve your looks and help you feel better too.
Skin Care
As you age, your skin loses its tone and elasticity. Pores may enlarge, you may develop fine lines and wrinkles, and the skin around your neck and jaw may begin to droop. In his book “Looking Younger: Makeovers That Make You Look as Young as You Feel,” makeup artist Robert Jones stresses the importance of a good skin care regimen to keep your skin firm and healthy. He calls it “your first defense in battling the signs of aging.” Cleanse, tone and moisturize twice a day with products suited to your skin type, to maintain your skin’s elasticity and healthy condition.
Foundation
Wearing foundation is an easy way to give your skin a younger appearance. It can brighten a dull complexion, hide imperfections and even out skin discoloration. Jones says the right foundation can take years off your face but warns that the wrong one can make you look even older. Apply a liquid foundation all over your face with a facial sponge after cleansing, toning and moisturizing in the morning. For a smoother finish, Jones also recommends setting your foundation with a matching facial powder.
Eye Makeup
Eyes that appear tired or saggy will age you. In the Instyle magazine article “10 Ways to Look 5 Years Younger,” republished on the CNN Living website, New York makeup artist Paula Dorf recommends creative use of eye shadow to minimize eyelid drooping. By sweeping a lighter colored shadow along the lash line and applying a darker color just above the crease, you can create a look that is brighter, fresher and younger.
Clothing
Updating your wardrobe is another easy thing you can do for a more youthful appearance. Annabel Tollman, a New York stylist, makes two suggestions in Instyle’s article “10 Ways to Look 5 Years Younger.” First, you need to get a bra that fits you properly. The right support will help define your shape and create a slimmer body line. Secondly, she discourages matching clothing too closely. “Always throw in something unexpected,” she says. A little creativity with your shoes and accessories will keep your look fresh and dynamic.
