THIS IS WHAT 52 LOOKS LIKE
JACQUI COOPER is a life coach and image consultant. She lives in Huddersfield with her husband, David, and their son, Brad. Here, she reveals her tips for looking young.
MAKE YOUR FIRST DRINK OF THE DAY PEPPER
CAYENNE pepper is used in lots of new cleansing and detoxifying regimens — it stimulates circulation and is one of the most alkaline-forming foods, meaning it can neutralise acidity, which aids a clear complexion. I make my first drink of the day hot water with freshly squeezed lemon juice and a pinch of cayenne pepper — we tend to wake up with an acidic stomach and this alkalises our bodies and balances our pH levels.
USE COLOUR TO BRIGHTEN YOUR COMPLEXION
MANY women don’t understand which colours flatter their natural skin tone, resulting in a tired, drained look. Here’s how to tell what suits you: with no makeup on, hold a blouse or T-shirt under your chin (I start with orange or pink). You’ll know if the colour is right if your face appears ‘lit’. Your complexion will look fresher, your eye colour enhanced and blemishes reduced. The right colour clothes can take years off your face.
EXERCISE YOUR FACE
I HAVE a personal trainer to keep my body toned, but I believe you have to exercise your face, too. Every two weeks I see a therapist who does something called facial muscle manipulation. It’s much more than just a facial — she gives the muscles of your face a good going over and, just as when you work out your body, my face definitely looks younger and more toned as a result.
CHANGE YOUR MAKE-UP WITH THE SEASONS
I CHANGE the colours I use seasonally, as I think it looks fresher. In summer, I like to wear bright shades — maybe turquoise on my eyes and a coral lipstick — whereas in winter I’ll wear warmer reds and browns on my lips and neutral colours on my eyes. This also means I keep up with trends — there’s nothing as ageing as an out-of-date make-up bag!
MEDITATE FOR 15 MINUTES EVERY MORNING
HAPPINESS is the best natural facelift — tension and frowning can add years to your face. Since I’ve taken up meditation, I feel calmer and look happier. I listen to the guided app Getting Into The Vortex in bed each morning — my friends tell me they haven’t the time, but each meditation only lasts 15 minutes.