THIS IS WHAT 54 LOOKS LIKE
SUE LAY is a management consultant. She lives with her husband, Steve, near Bedford and has two sons, 25 and 23.
MUM’S MOISTURISER
I REFUSE to spend silly money on skincare. I’ve used the same Astral face cream for 30 years — ever since I watched my mum apply it, as a child. She taught me to use it both as a moisturiser and make-up remover. I have tried expensive brands, but nothing beats Astral’s non-greasy consistency. You can still buy it in shops (£7.99, superdrug.com) and a 500ml tub lasts me six months.
LIPSTICK LIFELINE
I WEAR lipstick every day — even if I’m just off to the shops. It’s my armour: a confidence-booster that gets me ready to face the world. My inspiration is Angelina Jolie, who looks amazing with bold lips and little other make-up. Seventeen Stay Pout (£4.99, boots.com) is the best for long-lasting colour. I wear pink and orange shades.
LONGER HAIR THAN EVER
I’VE been dying my hair since I started going grey at 35. But when I turned 50, I also decided to grow it out longer than ever before. I realised that I just don’t feel attractive with shorter styles — no matter my age. It requires a lot of upkeep: £50 per month for a colour and cut at my local salon to maintain the layers. But it’s worth it.
MOVE MORE, EAT LESS
THIS is my new motto! I hate the gym, so I find creative ways to stay a size 12. I park my car in the furthest space at the shops; schedule 30-minute lunchtime walks at work and am taking golf lessons at the weekends. I used to love desserts, but if I still get a craving, I’ll treat myself to a mint Matchmaker.
LEAVE YOUR COMFORT ZONE
THE key to staying young is facing your fears. I recently tried indoor skydiving and learned to scuba dive — even though I hate heights and the sea. My mum is my role model: she set up a dance business at 50 after being a stay-at-home parent. As she is still young at heart, we go on annual holidays and this month it’s to Thailand, where we are volunteering at an elephant sanctuary and children’s charity. She is 76!
Do you look good for your age? Reveal your secrets to inspire@dailymail.co.uk.