How to Be Beautiful at 50 Without Surgery

Christie Brinkley is fabulous at 50 plus.

These days, it's harder to tell a woman's age. Along with myriad beauty techniques and products, women over 50 no longer have to trade beauty for blah. But some women reject the idea of invasive procedures, preferring a more natural approach.

Things You'll Need

• a beauty consultant or the time to research and make your own selections
• quality skin care and make-up products
• water, the more the better!
• change in hairstyle and possibly color
• a wardrobe makeover
• an attitude makeover

Instructions

The Myth, the Methods, the Message

1. Two myths surround beautiful older women: one, older women are meant to act their age and accept that beauty fades; two: only those older women willing to have a face-lift and tuck with their annual tax returns will keep 20 years off indefinitely. Between these two extremes lies a beautiful, intriguing woman who is realistic, confident and deliberate in taking care of herself.

2. You were stunning back in the 1970s. That style worked beautifully back then, but it's time to run -- not walk -- into the 21st century. Get as many fashion magazines as you can find, and look for hairstyles, fashions and an abundance of attitude representative of today's mature woman.

3. Skin begins to lose collagen as we age. It's just a fact of life, and not even Hollywood stars can avoid it; hence, the booming cosmetic surgery field in Los Angeles. But cosmetic surgery does not come without risks. Before choosing surgery, do a ton of research, ask for recommendations, and think carefully. Remember, one cosmetic procedure will not prevent the natural aging process. Keeping up with results of that first procedure can lead down a path of repeated surgeries.

4. 

   The look that worked for you in the 1970s needs an update.

   After you've updated your attitude, your hairstyle and your wardrobe, consider a skin care consultant to diagnose your skin type, tone, texture and problem areas and put together a regimen for you. Additionally, day spas that offer chemical peels and facials can be fantastic for rejuvenating your skin, but be clear that you want to avoid harsh chemicals.

5. Last but certainly not least, take care of yourself. Drink six to eight glasses of water daily. Exercise at least three days a week: Walk, jog, join a pilates class, swim, play tennis, go dancing. Stay engaged. Read, get involved in politics, volunteer, do things that motivate you to learn more and be influential. At 50, it's time for a fresh perspective.

Tips & Warnings

• Your diet is especially important.

• Consider a multivitamin geared toward women over 50.

• Get plenty of sleep. Power nap each day, if possible.

• Play a lot. Enjoy life and laugh as often as possible.

• Do not expose your skin to sun for long periods of time. Always use an excellent, high-SPF sun block.

• Get annual mammograms, physicals and eye exams.

References

• O, The Oprah Magazine: Beauty After 50: The Ellen Barkin Plan
• WebMD: 50+: Live Better, Longer

Resources

• 50 Great Things About Women Over 50