Pro-aging is the principle that we should not take an “anti” approach in getting older but accept that aging is natural. We can do it as gracefully and beautifully as possible. Simultaneously, the term “anti-aging” is incredibly ageist, and we need to do away with the notion that it’s impossible to be beautiful once you reach your mature years. Aging and advancing in years are things to be celebrated, not dreaded.
No matter your age now, you are never too young to start caring for your appearance in preparation for the passage of time. Anti-aging is out; pro-aging is in—and here are some pro-aging hair, skincare, and beauty tips that will help you grow old gracefully and beautifully.
Embrace silver hair.
If you notice your hair starting to turn gray, don’t be too quick to dismiss it or be afraid of it! The “silver fox” look has been a trend for a few years now, and there are plenty of young women and men who will undergo multiple bleaches to get the right tone and ash of naturally gray hair. People would kill for the kind of ash gray that you have on your hair!
Consult with your hairstylist or colorist about the silver or gray that will look best for your skin tone. If your skin is on the warmer side, you can consider toning your hair so that it’s more ash brown or blonde than it is pure silver. On the other hand, if your skin tone leans cooler or more neutral, don’t be afraid to go all out with the silver.
Not only will embracing your graying hair give you an edgy look that other people work so hard for, but it will also be incredibly convenient since you won’t have to go to the salon every few weeks to have your roots retouched. Don’t forget to switch to purple shampoo and conditioner to maintain the gray or silver color—the last thing you want is brassy, orange hair.
Do not neglect sunscreen.
Being pro-aging is not about completely letting yourself go; it’s about intentionally using products that promote health and natural glow more than simply getting rid of wrinkles. Many products only exist to prevent wrinkles and other signs of aging like it’s the worst thing that can happen to us, when it’s more worrisome to get sunspots and, worse, skin cancer.
When it comes to pro-aging skincare, remember that health is most important. This is why sunscreen is your best bet for keeping your skin healthy, as it protects it from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Even if you’re staying home all day, don’t forget to add sunscreen to your daily routine because the sunlight might still hit your skin whenever you’re near a window.
Prioritize moisture.
Another key component to keeping your skin healthy is by prioritizing moisture. Look for skincare products formulated to re-hydrate the skin, like those with a combination of lipids. Other ingredients that are good for moisture are shea butter and ceramides and powerful humectants like hyaluronic acid and fatty-acid-rich botanical oils.
Your skincare routine need not be complicated; it can be as simple as a three-step routine of cleansing, moisturizing, and using sunscreen. Just make sure that keeping your skin hydrated is at the center of your routine.
Let your smile shine through.
A 2017 study found that contrary to popular belief, smiling actually makes us look older instead of younger. But who cares, right? Being pro-aging is all about embracing wrinkles even when they come! More than caring about the effects of smiling, prioritize caring for your teeth by consulting with your dentists about the best course of action for your dental needs. If you struggle with spaces and gaps in between your teeth, or if you have crooked or irregularly shaped ones, porcelain dental veneers could be your best friend.
Besides, there’s nothing like the twinkle in your eye when you smile that instantly makes you appear not just more youthful but also joyful and filled with boundless energy as well.
Mind your body.
And lastly, don’t forget to care for your body by constantly practicing good posture and making time for exercise every day. Once again: Pro-aging cares more about health than appearance, and as long as you keep feeling good, your confidence and how you look at yourself will also follow.
Aging is a beautiful and natural thing and one that we need not prevent or avoid. Take care of your body, mind, and spirit, and your outer appearance will follow suit.
