In a world obsessed with the latest anti-wrinkle creams, there is solace to be found in the elegance of aging gracefully. For every wrinkle etched on our midlife faces, there are tales of experiences and badges of honor to be worn with pride. Aging is a privilege not everyone gets to achieve, and as women over 45 we need to embrace our age fully and thankfully.
“In 2022, the global anti-aging products market was valued at US$ 44.8 Billion. The facial cream & lotion segment dominated the market with the largest market revenue share of 45%.”
The beauty industry bombards us with brand-named creams, each claiming to reverse time with magical ingredients. As you can see from the stats above it is a billion-dollar industry, an industry built on the belief that we can be immortal and never age - in fact, a lie. We are meant to age and the truth is we can spend our money wisely elsewhere.
Amidst the hype, there are three simple daily rituals we can use to keep our midlife skin vibrant. They have been chosen as they require little financial investment, and are simple and easy to implement.
Laughter Not Face Yoga
Face Yoga has benefits yet this is not about setting a daily habit to contort your face into poses at a designated time of the day. There is no need to focus on yoga when laughter engages all 20 facial muscles, keeping them active and in top shape.
Laughter is a holistic practice that reverberates through your entire being, infusing joy into every fiber of your physical body, resonating in the energy field that surrounds you, and even leaving an indelible mark on the very essence of your DNA.
Ways to Laugh Easily
Connect Intimately: Dive into the worlds of those around you. Genuine connections, beyond surface stories, create a fertile ground for joy and laughter.
Avoid Unnecessary Drama: Steer clear of unnecessary conflicts and drama. A serene mind is more receptive to the lightness and humor life has to offer.
Share Laughter: Laughter is infectious. Share funny anecdotes, jokes, or playful moments with friends and loved ones to create a laughter-filled environment.
Cultivate Curiosity: Approach life with curiosity. The world is full of amusing and unexpected moments, and a curious mind is more likely to find humor in the ordinary.
Watch Comedy: Whether it's stand-up, sitcoms, or humorous movies, indulge in comedy that resonates with your sense of humor. Laughter induced by entertainment is a great stress-buster.
Engage in Playfulness: Embrace your inner child. Engage in activities that bring out your playful side, encouraging laughter as a natural expression of joy.
Practice Laughter Yoga: Join a laughter yoga group or practice laughter exercises on your own. Laughter yoga combines laughter with yogic deep-breathing techniques, promoting both physical and emotional well-being.
Surround Yourself with Positivity: Create a positive and uplifting environment. Being around people who radiate positivity and support encourages a joyful atmosphere.
Celebrate Small Joys: Acknowledge and celebrate the small, joyful moments in your daily life. Finding delight in the little things contributes to a more lighthearted perspective.
Mindfulness and Laughter: Incorporate mindfulness practices into your routine. Being present in the moment allows you to appreciate the humor in everyday occurrences.
Laughter is a natural gift, and finding ways to infuse more laughter into your life enhances not only your mood but also your overall well-being.
Our grandchildren have mastered the art of laughter in their social interactions and we can follow suit. Yet it is worth noting here the urban myth that they laugh more than adults.
The bottom line… laughter might just be the best 'cream' on the market.
Natural Skin Cream: A 5,000-Year-Old Secret
The ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks used beauty products, some were extremely poisonous. One product from their repertoire still stands strong after 5,000 years. Sadly, this natural elixir may not be around for another 5,000 years.
This versatile concoction serves as a moisturizer, an anti-wrinkle elixir, a makeup remover, a remedy for skin damage, (eczema, burns, rashes, and scars), and is natural. It can be used for frizzy hair, lip balm, and shaving cream too. This one-pot wonder is crafted from olive oil, beeswax, honey, bee pollen, propolis, and royal jelly. However, with declining bee populations due to various threats, saving your youthful looks will involve saving bees.
Simple gestures like planting bee-friendly flowers in your garden, providing a bee water station, and avoiding chemicals can contribute to their survival and your youthful looks. Refusing to support industrial farming methods is another powerful step, as bees require biodiversity, just like us humans.
Face Creams Today
‘If you wouldn’t eat it why would you put it on your skin?” Kay Newton
Whatever product you buy for your skin today, it is essential to check product labels for specific ingredients and consult with a professional dermatologist if you have concerns about certain chemicals. It's important to also note that not all products containing these ingredients will necessarily cause harm, as the concentration and formulation matter.
Additionally, the impact of these chemicals can vary from person to person. Here are a few chemicals that are often associated with potential risks:
Parabens: These are preservatives used to extend the shelf life of products. Some studies have suggested a potential link between parabens and hormonal imbalances.
Phthalates: Often found in fragrances, phthalates may be associated with endocrine disruption and reproductive toxicity.
Sulfates: Commonly used as foaming agents in cleansers, sulfates (like sodium lauryl sulfate) can be harsh and may cause skin irritation for some people.
Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-releasing Preservatives: These are used as preservatives in some skincare products. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, and its release from these preservatives can be a concern.
Fragrance: Synthetic fragrances can contain various undisclosed chemicals, which may cause skin irritation or trigger allergies in some individuals. Opting for fragrance-free products can be a safer choice.
Mineral Oil: Derived from petroleum, mineral oil is used as an emollient in skincare products. Some concerns exist about its potential to clog pores and create a barrier that may interfere with the skin's natural functions.
Triclosan: An antimicrobial agent used in some skincare products, triclosan has raised environmental and health concerns. It may contribute to antibiotic resistance and has been linked to hormonal disruption.
Oxybenzone: Often found in sunscreens, oxybenzone has raised concerns due to its potential to be absorbed through the skin. Some studies suggest it may have hormone-disrupting effects.
When you buy face products choose products with simpler, and a more natural ingredient list - if you can’t say it, don’t pay for it. Natural means will be feeding your skin healthy nutrition.
Homemade Face Cream Recipe
The recipe below not only nourishes your skin but also allows you to have full control over the ingredients, ensuring a more personalized and tailored approach to your skincare routine. By steering clear of industrial face creams laden with potential toxins, you embrace a natural and sustainable path to radiant, healthy skin, reflecting the beauty of simplicity and conscious living.
Ingredients
0.5 cup pure organic extra virgin olive oil (unrefined and cold-pressed)
1.5 tbs cosmetic-grade beeswax pellets
1.0 tbsp raw organic unfiltered honey
1.0 tsp unprocessed bee propolis
1.0 tsp organic royal jelly
1.0 tsp organic bee pollen (blend into powder for a smoother texture)
Method
1. Melt beeswax pellets and olive oil in a bowl over hot water.
2. In another bowl, mix the remaining ingredients.
3. Combine the two mixtures, whisking until you achieve an opaque, creamy emulsion.
4. Pour into a glass jar and store in the fridge.
You can personalize your cream with a few drops of essential oils, such as lavender, chamomile, lemongrass, or lang lang, depending on your preferences and skin needs yet always check for allergies.
How to Use
Clean and dry your skin, take a small pea-sized amount, and mix it on your palm until it liquefies. Apply, and embrace the unique feel – after all, normalcy is overrated.
The Power of Hydration
The third simple method is often underestimated yet it is a potent secret to youthful skin - staying hydrated. Water is not just a life force; it's a beauty elixir. Ensuring you consume an adequate amount of water daily keeps your skin supple, flushes out toxins, and maintains its elasticity. Hydrated skin is less prone to wrinkles and maintains a radiant glow.
Consider incorporating hydrating foods into your diet, such as water-rich fruits and vegetables. Additionally, herbal teas and infusions can be a delightful and hydrating alternative to plain water.
In essence, laughter, a homemade natural cream, and the power of hydration form a trinity that nurtures not just your skin but your overall well-being. Embrace these simple rituals, and let the beauty of aging unfold gracefully.
What about you? Do you have a favorite simple face cream recipe? Share below or come and drop in your suggestions to our secret Facebook group and inspire our community.