by Amanda Giannaros

Created on: August 03, 2009

The fountain of youth, something everyone wants but no one can seem to come by. Each year millions of dollars are poured into companies that offer products such as lotions, moisturizers, and skin creams promising the disappearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Thanks to Hollywood and the standards set by celebrities, aging gracefully is something that is almost impossible without a team of professional makeup artists and personal trainers. All hope is not lost, there are things that anyone can do to age with dignity and feel good about themselves.

Clothes are one of the first thing a person notices when seeing someone for the first time. How a person dresses says a lot about how they feel about themselves and how they want others to perceive them. Few women away from Hollywood's red carpet can pull off a plunging neckline , but this does not mean the have to go straight for lace high-neck collars. Knowing your body type is step one, if you don't know what looks good on you take a friend shopping with you. Just be sure that this person will be honest , it defeats the purpose to have someone along who will say you look good to avoid hurting your feelings. Find something that you are comfortable in. Wearing your clothes with confidence will make you look better than any fashion trend.

It is also important to take care of your body. If you feel good you will look good. Diet and exercise are a big part of aging gracefully. You don't have to be in the running for body builder of the year, but keeping in shape and eating a well balanced diet will benefit you well into old age. Also, know the damaging effects the environment can have on your body. Getting sunlight is important for the body's absorption of Vitamin D, but too much sun can cause wrinkles, dark spots, and skin cancer. Wind is also an element that can be damaging to your skin. Take care of yourself, wear sunscreen and stay well hydrated and the results will will be healthier more beautiful skin.

Many people color their hair to get rid of gray. While gray hair is an indicator of old age it doesn't have to be an embarrassment. If you do chose to color your hair make sure that you use a color that is close to your natural hair color. Also choose something that is appropriate for your ag. Hair naturally lightens as you age, so a 75 year old woman would probably look better with a light brown than with raven black.

There is no fountain of youth, no product that will make you look 20 again overnight. While you can do things to make yourself look younger, if you don't feel good it won't matter. There is no product out there more effective than self confidence. Take pride in your age, each year that you have contains life lessons and wisdom that only come with time. Aging gracefully isn't about looking younger, it's about looking the best you can at the age you are and that has everything to do with how you feel about yourself.

Learn more about this author, Amanda Giannaros.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.