The
natural side of aging can be a beautiful process
While fighting the signs of
aging is something we all think about, not all of us do so the same way Meet a
group of women who have so far evaded invasive and non-invasive treatments and
find out their tips for a healthy, youthful-looking skin.
Jenny Bekker, Age 55
How do you core for your skin: I remove my make-up with
Johnson and Johnson make-up remover and use Estee Lauder Day and Night moisturizer.
Have you always looked after
your skin?
I started taking an interest in my skin health from the age of 19.1 would wash
with soap and water daily and use a moisturizer. But, as I've gotten older, I
use a cleanser. Although there are still some times where I use soap and water.
I moisturize morning and evening, and always use sunscreen.
Jenny
Bekker, Age 55
What special care do you give
your skin?
I have used an exfoliator at home and I have been for facials at a salon. But
this is a rare treat; I have only gone about three times in the last five
years.
Why have you chosen not to
go the aesthetic route?
Firstly, I think they are too expensive, and secondly, I am scared of failed
results.
Would you try aesthetic
procedures in the future?
If I had the money, I think I would, but only if I was totally convinced of a
successful result.
What do you think about
women who have these treatments? I say go for it! We all need a bit of repair and
maintenance. And if it makes you feel better, then all the more reason.
How far would you go when it
comes to defying your age?
I'm a bit scared of needles, but I may consider laser I would even consider a surgical
procedure or facelift to remove a bit of sagging here and there, but only if I
can be assured of a successful result.
What's your secret? I don't smoke or drink
alcohol. I drink lots of water and I eat healthily. I also don't stress
unnecessarily; I have led a relatively happy life. Plus, I think it also has to
do with my genes - thanks Mum and Dad!
Fay Kajee, Age 52
How do you care for your skin: I keep my skincare simple
so that I can stick to a daily regime that is quick and easy for both home and
when I travel. I am currently using the Elizabeth Arden Range. For cleansing
both morning and night, I use Intervene 3-in-1 Daily Cleanser, Prevage Face anti-aging
serum, Prevage Day SPF 30, Prevage Night and Prevage Eye anti-aging moisturizing
treatment. My skin becomes dehydrated on the frequent long-haul flights that I
go on, so to combat this, I apply a thin layer of Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream
Skin Protectant over either my moisturizer or night cream, shortly after
take-off.
Fay
Kajee, Age 52
“I
never go to bed without cleansing and nourishing, eye-cream is compulsory and I
limit my sun exposure”
Have you always looked
after your skin?
Yes, I follow a daily routine using products that are best suited to my skin
type. I never go to bed without cleansing and nourishing, eye-cream is compulsory
and I limit my sun exposure.
What special core do you give
your skin? I
seldom have professional facials, perhaps two or three times a year at most. I’ve
found that daily care with products suited to my skin type has been effective
over the long term. For special occasions, or when I simply want a skin boost, I
use the Elemis Papaya Enzyme Peel and Guinot Masque Essentiel. I also find that
taking good care of my hair and the rest of the body helps.
Why have you chosen not to
go the aesthetic route?
I’m cautious about needles and other invasive procedures. I’m nervous in case
something goes wrong. I also think my skin is in good condition due to daily care,
so I haven't felt the need for anything drastic.
Would you try a esthetic
procedures in the future?
I believe being comfortable with the way you look is important for self-confidence.
As I age, I’m prone to pigmentation and it bothers me. So perhaps I would
consider trying an aesthetic procedure that would help reduce my pigmentation. What
I won't do is have cosmetic surgery. I feel that any surgery is risky, and
unless it's critical for health reasons, I’m not comfortable.
What do you think about women
who have these treatments?
I salute women - and men - who take care of their appearance. If aesthetic procedures
can help boost their self-confidence then I say "go for it". The
caveat is knowing when and where to draw the line and to aim for enhancement,
rather than change.
How far would you go when it
comes to defying your age?
Because of my darker skin and increased risk of pigmentation, I would more likely
do needles than IPL or laser, both of which could stimulate pigmentation. I don't
mind having wrinkles; I think they add character and interest to an older
person's face. I would consider a filler to soften these character lines, rather
than completely eliminate them.
What’s your secret? A good attitude, lots of laughter,
being comfortable in my skin and not taking it all so seriously. Of course it
helps to have good genes, a disciplined, but simple, daily skincare regime, getting
enough sleep and the daily use of sunscreen.