I have discovered something about beauty as I have gotten older: I care much less about looking younger and much more about feeling like myself.
My beauty routine isn't particularly complicated, and I certainly don't believe there is a list of things women are required to do once we reach a certain age. But I do have a handful of habits that make a noticeable difference in how I feel. When I take a little time to care for my skin, get dressed, put on some makeup, add a bit of color, and choose my jewelry, I simply feel more put together.
And yes, I do these things even when I am staying home all day.
Here are the five beauty habits that have become part of my everyday routine after 60.
1. I Take Care of My Skin First
The older I get, the more I appreciate good skincare. My goal isn't to erase every line or pretend my skin hasn't aged. It has, and that's perfectly fine with me. What I want is for my skin to feel healthy, comfortable, hydrated, and cared for.
Before I think about makeup, I think about my skin. Cleansing, moisturizing, hydration, eye cream for puffy eyes and sun protection have become more important to me than chasing the newest miracle product.
I've also learned that makeup looks better when my skin feels good. A little consistent care goes much further for me than trying to cover everything up.
2. I Get Dressed, Even When I'm Staying Home
This may be one of my most important habits.
I love comfortable clothes as much as anyone, but I have learned that there is a difference between being comfortable and feeling like I haven't quite started my day. Getting dressed changes my mindset.
That doesn't mean I put on an elaborate outfit to spend a Tuesday at home. It means choosing clothes that are comfortable but still make me feel good when I catch my reflection in a mirror.
I think there is something powerful about deciding that an ordinary day deserves a little effort, too.
3. I Put On Makeup for Me
Yes, I put on makeup even when I know I am going to be home all day.
For years, makeup can feel like something we do because we're going to work, going to dinner, attending an event, or seeing other people. Somewhere along the way, I realized that I actually enjoy the ritual itself.
A little makeup helps me feel awake and ready for the day. I don't need a full face or anything complicated. I just like looking in the mirror and seeing the version of myself that feels most like me.
If no one else sees it that day, that's okay. I did.
4. I Add Some Color
Color makes an enormous difference for me.
A little blush and lip color can brighten my entire face, and I find myself appreciating them even more now than I did when I was younger. I am not trying to hide my age. I simply like the warmth and life that a little color brings.
This is also one area where I think beauty should remain fun. We don't suddenly have to retreat into a tiny selection of "appropriate" colors because we've celebrated a certain number of birthdays.
If a lipstick makes me happy when I put it on, that's a pretty good reason to wear it.
5. I Put On Jewelry
Jewelry is often the last thing I add, but it can be the thing that makes me feel completely dressed.
Earrings, a bracelet, a necklace, or another favorite piece takes only seconds to put on, yet it makes an ordinary outfit feel intentional. Jewelry is also personal. The pieces we choose can hold memories, reflect our personalities, or simply add a little sparkle to an otherwise ordinary day.
I don't believe jewelry needs to be expensive or reserved for special occasions. If I love it, I want to wear it.
I Don't Save Feeling Pretty for Special Occasions
Maybe that's the biggest change in my beauty routine after 60.
I don't want to save my favorite lipstick, pretty jewelry, good clothes, or the feeling of being put together for the days when someone else will see me.
There are plenty of days when I am home writing, working around the house, cooking, gardening, or simply going about an ordinary day. I still get dressed. I still put on my makeup. I still add some color and choose my jewelry.
Not because I think women need to look polished every day. We absolutely don't.
I do it because these little rituals make me feel good.
Beauty after 60, at least for me, has become much less about trying to meet someone else's definition of beautiful. It's about knowing what makes me feel confident, comfortable, and like myself, and deciding that an ordinary day is reason enough.
What is one beauty or getting-ready habit you do just for yourself, even when no one else is going to see you?
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