Rethinking make-up after 40

Sooner or later it happens. We look into the mirror and see our mothers looking back at us. We start to see the subtle, or not so subtle, changes that are happening to our faces and our bodies; and we are not quite ready for what we see. Our once soft and smooth skin is no longer, replaced by fine lines and wrinkles. It's the age thing starting to take hold, and for most of us, our skin is the most visible sign of aging. Aging is a natural occurrence and part of growing older gracefully lies in our willingness to accept and adapt to change. To alter our appearances, besides changing the lifestyle such as modifying our diet, reducing the stress in our life and increasing the amount of exercise we get, I believe that the right make-up can help women look more youthful, especially choosing the right foundation.

When turning to 40 or over, some of people stop wearing foundation because they thought it would collect in their laugh lines and emphasize their imperfections. They should change their mind. Today, some kinds of foundation, no matter liquid or mineral formula, contain anti-aging ingredients such as peptides, sodium hyaluronate, vitamins, and antioxidants helping aging skin. Check labels to find products that carry two or more of the following ingredients:

Soy: the most well known can reduce the severity of hot flashes in menopausal women by acting as a fill-in for estrogen.

Vitamin E: this antioxidant protects the body's tissues against harmful effects of free radicals.

Peptides: these proteins send a signal within the skin structure to make collagen, which results in firmer and thicker skin.

C0-enzyme Q10: this activates the skin's defense mechanisms, boosting its immunity and protecting against free radicals.

Alpha lipoic acid: this reduces skin inflammation and increases cell metabolism, improving the skin's ability to heal. It also increase the positive effects of vitamin C and E in the body.

These ingredients will help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and restore the skin's luster and softness, giving a more youthful look and feel. So, don't be afraid of using foundation because foundation is truly the key to a flawless appearance for the face.