How to Look Younger at Work After 50: Advice for Men

Paying attention to your appearance can give you a competitive edge in the job market.

Bias against older workers can be a problem for men over 50 trying to get new jobs or to advance in their current jobs. The problem is especially acute in youth-oriented industries such as advertising and technology. Looking younger can provide a competitive advantage. The trick is to find methods that genuinely enhance your appearance without going overboard and looking phony. Looking younger doesn't have to be time-consuming and expensive, though it can be. Try the simpler methods first before resorting to more drastic measures such as plastic surgery.

Instructions

1. Take care of your health. Getting enough sleep, drinking plenty of water, eating healthy foods, avoiding excessive sun exposure and exercising regularly are all good for your skin and your body, and will help you maintain a youthful energy.

2. Update your wardrobe, getting rid of anything that is out of date. At the same time avoid buying clothes that are too trendy. Aim for a classic but current look.

3. Trim your eyebrows if they have become bushy and wild. Trim any hair growing out of your nose or ears. Wear your hair short in a contemporary style, and if you're still sporting a ponytail, ditch it! Consider shaving your head if you are balding.

4. Don't try too hard. Avoid combovers, bad toupees or large medallions around your neck. Trying too hard to appear youthful will backfire and only make you look older.

5. Use moisturizer -- no one has to know. If your skin needs more help, consult a dermatologist. Ask about procedures such as Botox, laser treatments, chemical peels and soft tissue fillers.

6. Get regular dental care. Bleach your teeth if they are discolored. If bleaching is not enough, consider capping or veneers.

7. Consider joining the increasing number of men who are getting plastic surgery, but only after exhausting all other self-help remedies.

References

• The Street; Guys -- How You Can Look Younger Without Surgery; Rhonda Markowitz; March 2008
• Everyday Health; A Man's Guide to Looking and Feeling Younger; Beth W. Orenstein; June 2010
• "Time"; How Not to Look Old on the Job; Lisa Takeuchi Cullen; February 2008
• American Society of Plastic Surgeons; Men Fuel Rebound in Cosmetic Surgery; March 2011
• "Newsweek"; Keep Young and Beautiful---Especially at Work; Nancy Cook; April 2010