by Dana Moses

Created on: May 05, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Age is only a number, and that number means less now than it ever has before. You can look younger instantly and almost effortlessly by following a few simple guidelines. These tips will help you look younger from the outside, feel younger from the inside, and maybe even make you forget your exact age.

Number 1: Lay off the makeup. Not only is tip low-cost, it might actually save you money because you'll visit your favorite makeup store less often. Pare down to the bare minimum necessary it'll be super easy to maintain and also make you look younger. Be sure to apply an SPF-containing moisturizer daily, pluck your brows into a nicely groomed arch and maintain them, and use lip gloss, blusher, eyeshadows or mascara as you see fit to highlight your best features. But foundation, especially if in the wrong shade or applied too thickly, can actually increase the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Eyeliner can be a dramatic look for evening, but on a day-to-day basis can make you look tired. Save yourself 10 minutes in the morning and 10 years on the face by going back to basics.

Number 2: Refresh your wardrobe. Don't go shopping for an entire new wardrobe! Stick to classic styles and flattering cuts. Assess what's already in your closet and determine what's keeping you from achieving your ideal wardrobe. Are you well stocked but need to change the cut of a few things? A good tailor can adjust a hem or a waistline for much less than buying a new piece of clothing. Are you stuck in an all-black, all-the-time rut? A few splashy scarves, bags, and shoes can give you a youthful punch on the cheap. Learn which blouse cuts, skirt lengths and colors flatter your body type and skin tone - they're probably the ones you feel amazing in!

Number 3: Recharge your batteries. How much shut eye are you getting every night? How are you doing on the whole 8-glasses-of-water-a-day thing? Let your body repair itself with proper rest and hydration and you'll look like a million bucks for doing it. Besides, going home before last call will save you a few bucks too. For bonus youthfulness, boost your energy levels with regular exercise. Exercise regularly enough, and you could even pass as younger to a doctor. Any exercise counts from taking the stairs at work to playing with your kids to a vigorous walk after dinner, you're only extending your lifespan and improving your health by getting exercise.

Number 4: Fool the rest of us. Stand up straight and carry yourself with poise. With age comes wisdom, and if you follow the advice your mother gave you from day one, you'll look younger for it. Having good posture will not only make you look taller and thinner, it will improve your core strength as well. Carry yourself like you're confident and optimistic that you know what you're doing, which brings us to

Number 5: Smile! It gives you an instant face lift and puts a youthful sparkle in your eyes. Enjoy life, and all the challenges and blessings that come with it. Learn to laugh at yourself you might risk deepening your laugh lines, but your heightened mood, unshakable optimism and sunny disposition will trick everyone into thinking you're years younger. Even if they know your true age, they'll only envy you for the years you've had to enjoy your life.

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