The Best Natural Beauty Tips for Your Skin and Hair (especially those over 50)

As the years go by, it's natural for our skin to develop some fine lines and a few strands of gray hair. These are just signs of growing older, but that doesn't mean we can't freshen up our look. There are lots of ways for women in their 50s and beyond to highlight their natural beauty without surgery.

Skin and Hair and the Effects of Age

Think about all the things our skin has been through – sun exposure, smoking, what we eat, and even our genes – they all start to show on our faces as we age. Plus, stress, gravity, and carrying extra weight can make our skin look different too. Our skin's cells don't multiply as fast when we're older, so it might start to feel less bouncy and more dry.

The same kind of thing happens to the cells that color our hair. As we get older, these cells aren't as good at making new ones, which is why our hair can turn gray.

Natural Beauty Tips for Your Skin

Taking care of your skin as you age doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some easy tips to help you glow naturally.

Quit smoking. Smoking is notorious for speeding up the aging process, so ditching it is a big win for your skin.

Avoid the midday sun and skip the tanning beds. The sun's rays are harshest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so it's best to stay shaded during these hours. If you're out and about, cover up with a hat, long sleeves, and shades to protect yourself from the sun's damaging effects, which can lead to freckles, age spots, and a patchy complexion.

Make sunscreen your best friend. Slather on a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least 7% zinc oxide and an SPF of 30 or higher every single day. Remember to reapply it every two hours if you're outside to shield your skin from fine lines and discoloration.

Keep a close eye on your skin's health. Regularly scan your skin for any concerning changes and don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor if something seems off. It's especially important for those with fair skin and a few more years under their belt to get a professional skin check-up once a year.

Calming dry skin is a breeze with a humidifier in your room and by switching to soap, creams, and lotions that are packed with moisture. If dryness persists, it's worth chatting with your doctor.

A balanced diet and plenty of water are key for healthy skin. Nutritious foods support your body's skin-repairing powers, while water keeps your skin hydrated from within.

Consider trying anti-aging skin products. If you're in your 50s or older, there are plenty of creams and lotions available that can give your natural beauty a boost by refreshing your skin. Pentapeptides, found in many modern skin care products, might encourage your skin to make more collagen, which can give it a tighter appearance. For more targeted treatments, you can ask your doctor about prescription options like retinoid creams.

Be aware of skin-enhancing treatments. Procedures like Botox or Dysport injections can smooth out wrinkles, especially on the upper part of your face. Chemical peels can take care of fine lines and freckles, particularly around the eyes and mouth. Wrinkle fillers can fill in lines for a plumper look.

Microdermabrasion and microneedling are great for tackling tiny lines and giving your skin a fresh, even tone. Laser resurfacing is another option for improving the appearance of sun-damaged skin, scars, and wrinkles.

Natural Beauty Tips for Healthy Hair

Gray hair might be permanent, but that doesn't mean you can't freshen up your look. Here's how to keep your locks looking lively and youthful.

Go for highlights. Adding a few strategic streaks of color can effectively camouflage grays, especially if your hair is on the lighter side to begin with.

If you're considering a darker, uniform shade, be prepared for the regular touch-ups needed as your roots grow in. If frequent trips to the salon don't fit your lifestyle, this might not be the choice for you.

Embrace a new style. Wear your hair the way you love it, regardless of conventional wisdom about hair length and age. Your hairstyle should reflect your personal style, period.

Address thinning hair. A shorter cut can create the illusion of thickness, and color can add depth to fine hair. The right products, like volumizing shampoos, can also make a difference. If you want more oomph, consider hair extensions.

Remember, the most beautiful accessory is a bright smile. Your natural beauty routine might include a few select products or treatments, but ultimately, self-care is the key to a beautiful you.