For several years now, I've felt like I'm one of the few women around me who haven't had any cosmetic procedures. "Frozen" forehead and frown lines, and fuller, more defined lips are the treatments I see most often, but I imagine there are more. I have nothing against them, and I sincerely believe that everyone should do what they feel is best for them.
I want to grow old without getting any work done on my face.
If you're like me, you already know it's not easy. We no longer just see images of smooth, perfect faces on magazine covers; we also see them on social media through filters, and in person, with friends, acquaintances, and strangers who have gone under the knife or laser. In some cases, perhaps, it's not attractive, but in others, it looks good, and sometimes I wish I had the smooth skin I see on my friends , instead of having crow's feet and the now very pronounced lines on my forehead.
It also doesn't help to hear comments from some people who insist on telling you that you should dye your hair to look younger, or ask if you haven't thought about doing "something" to your eyes.
Some people have also told me that I am "brave" for not hiding my gray hair, and that I am an inspiration to other women who are thinking of stopping dyeing their hair, but kind words are harder to remember.
When I feel nostalgic about looking younger, I first try not to get discouraged, especially since I believe that aging healthily is a privilege. Then I think that what I really dislike about wrinkles or gray hair is that it makes me look like I've "let myself go."
To combat this image of neglect—which I am aware is also a social construct —I try to take better care of myself in other aspects ; for example, by wearing clothes that make me feel good, keeping my hands and nails well-groomed, and making sure my skin is clean, healthy, and moisturized.
Cleansers, serums, oils, and creams help a lot to have clean and smooth skin, but in addition, supplements such as fish oil (hydration) , collagen (smoothness), and fiber (blemish-free skin) support the health and good appearance of the skin.
I hope that whatever you do, you feel good about yourself. Even though we all know beauty comes from within, it can be hard to believe it. I also hope that whatever you do, or don't do, is because you want to, and not because of any external pressure you might feel.