THIS IS WHAT 50 LOOKS LIKE
FRAN WILKINSON lives with her husband James. She works as an executive assistant.
MONTHLY FACIAL DUO
EVERY month, I have a facial at my local salon. It’s tailored to my skin each time. I alternate between a muscle-toning CACI or oxygen facial that blasts air to stimulate collagen, plump skin and shrink pores. I had my first one last year, when I hit 50, as I wanted a confidence boost. They’re a great non-surgical alternative to Botox, if you prefer a natural look.
TRY MAGIC ROLLERS
MY HAIR is my best feature. I keep it healthy by avoiding towel drying and not brushing it when wet, when it’s most likely to break. The O Pod by Cloud Nine (€169.99, littlewoodsireland.ie) is my most treasured styling tool. The rollers heat up in four seconds, but only when in your hair. I use 12 to 14 rollers for ten minutes to recreate the volume of a salon blow-dry.
DIY MANICURE CHEAT
I DO all my own manicures. To get a neater finish, I only file in one direction: upwards towards the middle of the nail, from both sides, then under the tip. Next I apply coconut oil to condition my cuticles, so they don’t need cutting so often — I always carry a mini tub in my handbag. For nail polish, I find that OPI and Chanel are particularly long-lasting.
PAMPER YOUR LEGS
ONCE a week, I treat myself to a pamper session. First, I exfoliate with Sanctuary Spa Body Scrub (€8.50, boots.ie) — but always before a shower, as it works best on dry skin. I then pour a ¼ cup of Johnson’s Baby Oil (€2, mccabespharmacy.com) in a hot bath and soak for half an hour.
SOLO DANCING
I’VE loved to dance ever since attending dance school as a child. It’s my favourite way to de-stress, express myself and be happy. Plus, it’s one of the best ways to stay fit. I go clubbing with my friends every few weeks and am always the last to leave.