How to look your best

Does the thought of your hair becoming grey and your face wrinkled scare you? You are not alone in feeling so, as universally, numerous women share this anxiety. Fortunately, though we cannot stop the aging process, there are ways of combating signs of aging and making the most of what you have.

Hair and beauty cosmetologist Asoka Thilakaratne who runs the 7th Avenue beauty salon at Galle Face Hotel has several tips to offer – both natural and cosmetic to ensure that we look vibrant and beautiful at any age. “A face is like a boot that looks nicer and lasts longer as long as we maintain it,” she says.

Crowning glory: So what are the obvious signs? To begin with the crown, hair can turn grey prematurely – when grey strands appear all over the head owing to genetic or health reasons; or naturally – when greying starts from the temple to spread up to the hairline. Both women and men are also confronted with thinning of hair and receding hairlines.

All the above aspects according to the beautician can be camouflaged. “A good style, cut and colour can reverse the pattern,” she says. Above all, to maintain a healthy head of hair, she recommends shampooing twice a week and conditioning – a must for Asian hair that has a tendency to frizz.

Skin: Your face is constantly exposed to various weather conditions and pollution and no amount of make-up can cover up flawed skin for long periods of time. “Make-up merely enhances the beauty of eyes and lips.” As a daily routine to maintain a glowing complexion, the cosmetologist suggests cleansing, toning and moisturizing (with a gentle massage) twice a day, and sun block - essential before stepping out, as UV rays are known to age skin fast. A facial – at home or in a salon is recommended once a month.

Eye care: Eye cream, she says should be used from the time one enters into middle age. “One should not wait until lines appear to begin doing so.” The tender skin under the eyes being more sensitive than other parts apparently has no oil glands or layers of fat. Hence taking care of eyes early is important.

Lips: Keep lips soft by not licking them, drinking plenty of water to prevent dehydration and applying a lip balm before bed to help moisturise lips while you sleep. Prior to an outdoor activity, use a lip balm that contains SPF 15. If lips become chapped, moisturise several times a day.

Good grooming: Rough hands need to be well moisturized several times a day, nails need to be manicured periodically. Most of these routines – waxing, moisturizing can be done at home for a healthy appearance. Needless to say, maintaining of teeth and preventing of discolouration from a small age is vital.

Healthy lifestyle: That women age faster than men owing to hormonal changes is obvious. However, age, genetics and lifestyle play a vital role in how fast you age. If we take preventive measures early by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, we can reduce the chances of unnecessary damage to our complexion in future.

Most importantly, one should eat a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, exercise regularly, keep your mind free of problems, read to keep your mind alert, make time for hobbies, practise religion and keep in touch with friends. It is also vital that one reduces alcohol intake and quits smoking. “All that can contribute to keeping a person looking young,” Asoka advises.