As Good HousekeepingApril Franzino’s beauty director has collected countless skin, hair and makeup tips straight from the pros. Yet some of her most valuable beauty wisdom comes from her own family members. Here, she recounts advice from her grandmother, mother, and aunts that informed her approach to beauty, confidence, and the aging process.
1. A little can go a long way
For my entire life, I’ve watched my grandmother do a few things to look pulled together, no matter her age: apply lipstick, spray perfume, curl her hair, and paint her nails. It taught me that you don’t need a complicated beauty routine to feel confident – identifying the little rituals that give you a boost can be more than enough.
2. Find what works for you
Most of my early studies in beauty came from an aunt of mine, who is a professional hairstylist. She was the first to take me to the beauty supply store to learn about skin, hair and makeup products, and she also taught me how to use them. One of my first jobs was working in his salon.
Watching her over the years has shown me that while experimenting is sometimes fun, you don’t have to try every trend that comes your way. You can find the flattering and comfortable look for you and make it your signature. Her hair is long, wavy and highlighted and her natural makeup looks beautiful in any setting – a similar aesthetic that I’ve adapted over the years.
3. Evolve your routine during menopause
I have learned from women in my family who have gone through menopause that your body and skin needs can change dramatically during this time. It’s important to adjust your skincare routine accordingly and remember that taking the time to take care of yourself is a must.
As I get older, I’m thrilled to see more and more skincare brands offering research-based collections created to specifically target the effects of menopause, from tenderness and dryness to wrinkles and loss. of firmness. For example, the new No7 Menopause Skincare Collection (shop the full line below) was co-created with input from over 7,000 postmenopausal women.
According to the brand, the range is “designed to target the visual signs of reduced estrogen and collagen for radiant, replenished-looking skin.” And it’s not just for menopausal women either. Although I personally haven’t reached that stage yet, I love using the Instant Refreshing Mist with rose water and glycerin to refresh and hydrate my skin throughout the day.
No7 Menopause Skincare Protect & Hydrate Day Cream
No7 Menopause Skincare Instant Radiance Serum
No7 Menopause Skincare Nourishing Night Cream
4. Consistency is key
At every stage of life, taking the time to take care of yourself physically, mentally and emotionally is essential to looking and feeling your best as you age. The results of a consistent skincare and self-care routine add up over the years and can help keep your skin and body healthy down the line.
5. Embrace your natural features
My mom has always been unabashedly herself when it comes to beauty, whether it’s wearing her hair full and natural curly, or going makeup free and showing off her skin. Her example helped me feel comfortable in my unique beauty, including the texture of my wavy hair, the bump on my nose, and my bare skin – dark circles, dryness, etc. More importantly, all the women in my life have shown me that no matter how old you are, true beauty comes through your mind and soul.
April (her) is the beauty director of Good Housekeeping, Prevention and women’s day, where she oversees all beauty content. She has over 15 years of experience under her belt, beginning her career as an assistant beauty editor at GH in 2007, and working in the beauty departments of SELF and Aptitude magazines.
