There are some unique challenges when it comes to being a women in her 50s. As I enter my 59th year, I know this from personal experience!  The desire for beauty calls to us in new ways then it did in our 20s, 30s and even 40s. The focus shifts to regaining a more youthful look and, unless we take drastic measures, beauty becomes more about embracing age and "going with it" as best as we can. This time of life will also require that we learn how to slow the aging process and minimize future damage. 

I think it's important to understand that aging can be a complex process for women. The desire to maintain a youthful appearance while embracing one's age can be complicated as we move into our 50s. The decade of the 50s will require a whole new approach to skin care. To start, think more along the lines of "skin wellness".  

It can be helpful to know that a big contributor to aging in our 50s is hormone related. Many of us remember how hormone fluctuation greatly affected our skin in adolescence, right? The early 50s come with very unique hormonal shifts as we enter menopause. When estrogen levels begin to sharply decline, the skin becomes drier, less oily, less flexible, thinner and possibly more sensitive. This can result in noticeable changes in the skins appearance. Typically, we notice that fine lines start to give way to deeper wrinkles. The integrity of the skin changes a lot and conditions like hyperpigmentation and volume loss can be harder to manage. Also, when the skin thins, it becomes more difficult for it to hold moisture. 

As women, this time of life changes us on almost every level. Over the years, we heard about the coming hot flashes. But, I'm not sure that anything prepares us for how this decade will change us physically, mentally, spiritually and most shocking for me, socially! It will greatly serve us to be kinder to ourselves and to practice self love, acceptance and for us to learn how to embrace our aging process. It will require us to call on a level of grace that we didn't know lived within us until we arrived here.

EMBRACE AND EMPOWER YOURSELF

Your "skin care" will need to change to meet the needs of this new era of skin maturity. The tride and true  products that you used, including make-up,  may need new consideration.  You will want to be more focused on hydration for the entire body, not just the skin. Rest and lowering stress will become your new "fountain of youth" because being "tired" and holding tension in your 50s, will show on your face more then before. If you haven't already,  It will become increasingly supportive to heal "wounds" left over from early life. Hold hands with your aging "sisters". You will begin to hear the voice of your wisdom like never before and you will appreciate how you reflect this wisdom to one another. Rest more. I mean sleep yes, but more than that, rest internally. Rest your mind, your energy, rest your worry, set aside over nurturing others, this is your time to nurture YOU. Gather strength from less activity and more silence.            

Embrace your natural beauty. Celebrate YOUR unique features and honor your internal state of being. When you do that, you will gain a new appreciation for your unique qualities and develop a sense of confidence and self-assurance.

Develop a skincare routine that invests in you, instead of one that simply pays others. "Expensive" doesn't always equal effective. Be certain that it's simple, clean, appropriate and that it doesn't abrade, irritate or harm the barrier of your skin. Harsh products that your skin tolerated in yours 30s (chemicals, acids, scrubs and exfoliants) will age the skin faster in your 50s.  Steer clear of skin fads, and the "too good to be true" approaches. Protecting your skin from the sun with MINERAL sunscreen is crucial. But also, getting sunshine on your bare skin, during low UV time, is essential. 

Maintain a healthy lifestyle. So many changes are happening in the body at this time. A diet that FEELS GOOD on you and your body is your "balanced diet". I became sensitive to many foods in my early 50s and needed an entire diet overhaul!  Pay attention to how food makes you feel. If vegan and raw doesn't feel good, it's not for you. If it doesn't digest well, it will not serve your body, mind or your skin.  One size does not fit all at this stage. Find what works for you.  I can't stress how important regular exercise is, but perhaps reconsider  "boot camps" and Cross Fit! Consider things like yoga, hiking, Pilates, swimming and walking. Exercise in the 50s should be as good for the heart and soul as it is for your body. Exercise moves your circulation, oxygen and lymphatic fluid. This type of exercise will slow down the aging process and will provide a stress outlet.

Most of all, engage in activities that leave you feeling empowered! Taking time for yourself can help you feel more centered and rejuvenated, which will ultimately enhance your confidence, and that's beautiful!