Maturing is a journey, and while we’re all for wisdom and life experiences, there are some “surprises” along the way.
From rogue chin hairs to disappearing brows and those pesky bags under your eyes, these little joys can feel like nature’s own inside joke.
But don’t worry, I’ve got tips to fill in the gaps, both literally and figuratively!
One day, you’re minding your own business, and the next—BAM! A chin hair that’s been growing undetected for days pops up to greet the world. I’ve been telling you for years, not to use tweezers for various reasons.
Many of you have told me, “that’s all well and good” ….. “easier said than done”, but when a chin hair pops up, you have to take it out.
Okay, keep a mini pair in your bag for those emergency situations.
However, As chin hairs become more frequent, not If, consider facial waxing strips or a gentle facial hair remover specifically for sensitive skin.
You can also try threading, which has the bonus effect of exfoliating your skin. Threading also keeps the hairs at bay longer than waxing. The key is not to shave. Shaving can increase uneven skin tones and darken your complexion. It also makes the hairs grow back faster for some of you.
Pro Tip: Set a reminder on your phone every few days for a quick “hair inspection” to avoid surprises. You’ll be surprised at what the sun can bring into view
As we mature, our brows start to thin out, especially around the tail end, which can leave us looking a bit like we’ve only half-completed our brow makeup.
That’s me!!
A brow pencil in a shade slightly lighter than your natural color will give a fuller, softer look without being harsh. A 10x mirror can help you see those little suckers.
For those of you who want something a little more permanent, consider brow tinting which can last several months.
Hack Alert: If you’re using a pencil, draw small, feather-like strokes to mimic real brow hairs rather than one solid line. This gives a more natural, youthful look.
Your hair seems to be doing the opposite of growing in all the right places. Temples and edges, often the first to go, can be helped with a few clever tricks. Use a hair-growth serum on your edges to encourage regrowth.
Bonus Tip: Massage your scalp regularly with a good hair serum that contains rosemary oil. It’s been known to help stimulate circulation and may promote hair growth over time.
As estrogen levels start to decline, so does your skin’s natural oil production, which means dryness, especially for melanated skin, becomes a real challenge. Incorporate hyaluronic acid serums into your skin care routine for a boost of hydration, and follow up with a rich, hydrating moisturizer. A weekly hydrating mask is also a wonderful way to pamper your skin.
Sleep is precious, but sometimes those bags and circles show up regardless. Start with a good eye cream. Also, try using a cold spoon or a couple of chilled cucumber slices to de-puff.
Maturing gracefully doesn’t mean giving up on beauty routines, it just means adapting them! Embrace these tips, laugh off those surprises, and remember, maturing as Black women is a gift. It comes with a unique set of challenges and solutions, but with a bit of humor, we’re ready for all of it.
That’s it for this week. As always …
Dedicated to Your Beauty,
Juliette Samuel,
Esthetician/Author/Publisher,