My beauty secret weapon

They’re smart, glamorous – and 50-plus. Nine women reveal their simple tips for looking great at any age

OUR BEAUTY ASSISTANT’S TIMELESS ICONS

There are some women who never look less than impeccable, no matter their age. It’s not about a full face of make-up, good genes or expensive treatments. It’s that enigmatic glamour you can’t pinpoint – why does she look so good? Their secret weapons are simple tips we can all use, and they are more down-to-earth than you might expect…

GLOSSY NAILS

Ruby Hammer, 60, make-up artist

‘I regularly treat myself to a manicure and pedicure. I work with my hands, so the regular practice of a mani makes me feel groomed, polished and ready for anything. Lots of people neglect their feet in the winter but I love to get pedicures all year round and it means my feet require less maintenance come sandal season. A mani/pedi with my tools, handled by a professional, is the ultimate treat for me. A deep ruby red is my signature polish.’

A ROOT TOUCH-UP

Bobbi Brown, 64, founder of Jones Road ‘Dyeing my hair is my beauty non-negotiable. I’ve been grey since I was 25, so I colour it every two weeks at a local salon. I wash it almost every day, too, because I exercise. Then I get it blow-dried probably three times a week and I always feel so much better after that. I would love to be able to curl my own hair, though, to get a wave. I just can’t figure it out!’

GROOMED BROWS

Liz Earle, 58, beauty entrepreneur

A SLICK OF LIPSTICK

Janet Ellis, 66, television presenter and author 19 FEBRUARY 2022

‘Brows and lashes make all the difference. I’m never without a jet-black mascara and I tint my eyebrows using a dark brown moustache dye to hide the greys.’

‘In the novel I’m writing, one of the characters is asked what she never leaves home without. “Lipstick,” she replies. They say you should write what you know – and that’s me right there. Sometimes I don’t even leave a room without a slick of lipstick. Always an orange-pink red, and no particular brand – I’m easily seduced. It is an essential, mood-boosting finishing touch.’