by Mariam Nundu

Created on: March 01, 2009   Last Updated: April 13, 2009

It is possible to look ten years younger by following these simple tried-and-tested tips. These tips work by addressing the common areas that mostly impact how others determine our age; the big give-aways.

Get these areas wrong and watch the age barometer shoot up for the stars. "What's that love, you are only fifty! Blimey I thought you were seventy!" Here is how to avoid such comments

1) Makeup: Whenever you wear makeup make sure that you are using the right shades for you, from your foundation to your lipstick, the colours must complement your own facial canvas i.e., skin tone, eye and hair colour. The easiest way to achieve this is to pop by any good stores such as Boots or John Lewis, and have a chat with the beauty consultants.

Thus enabling you to test different colours (lip sticks, eye shadow etc) and gather valuable information to include on your beauty regime for free! Better still why not shop on line for the 'new age' foundations with a 'light-reflecting' technology such as Sheer cover or Bare Essentials. These foundations contain a substance that reflects light giving the skin a healthy glow. Some high street brands also offer such foundations, ask at the store.

2) Application: Do not overdo your makeup at any cost, always aim for the natural look. The natural look makes the person appear younger. Heavy makeup overwhelms the skin, suffocating the pores and basically sits on the face accentuating every wrinkle. Use a 'primer' (e.g. Smashbox Photo Primer) to smooth the skin before applying makeup.

Choose subtle colours that complement your skin tone and eye colour for eye shadow and lipstick/lip gloss. Avoid 'loud or bold' colours if you pale skinned or colours with a pink undertone if you are dark skinned. Wear mascara to open up the eyes and accentuate them by shaping the eyebrows.

3) Hair: As tempting as it may seem do not let yourself loose with a pair of scissors and a dye! Visit a professional/recommended salon for advice. Or pick one from the Yellow pages; a simple telephone enquiry should enable you to spot the dodgy salons.

Alternatively put your photo on beauty websites with a program allowing you to test different hairstyles and colours. This is fun, free and can at least give you some ideas. Don't gamble with your hair, you have to live with it remember.

4) Hands & Teeth: There are a few things that can age you faster than bad kept teeth and wrinkly hands. Use a good toothbrush; electric ones like Oral B range are great. Use toothpaste with whitening ability or home-whitening kit to brighten up your smile. If teeth are badly stained, damaged then seek dental help.

Use anti-ageing hand moisturizers with UV protection regularly on your hands and protect them from harsh chemicals by wearing gloves. Nails should be kept clean and polish applied to further compliment your makeup e.g. matching nail polish with lipstick/eye shadow.

Follow these tips and watch the clock turn back. Enjoy!

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