The closer I get to being regarded as a classic, the more I turn to the classics.
My skin and hair currently behave differently from they did in my 20s, 30s, and early 40s, but I'm still blithesome. So, even though skin and body care are continuously improving, I do not feel compelled to follow the current makeup or skincare trends, and instead, opt for products containing plant-based ingredients, especially natural oils.
One particular product that I'll continue to use (in memory of my dad) is Noxzema.
Being well-groomed was an undeniable trait of my dad, and he liked to see clean and clear skin.
I cannot recall ever seeing his cabinet without a container of Noxzema, and when I last saw him, he shared half a tub and gave me this very one pictured above.
"What caused that pimple on your cheek?" asked Daddy.
Handing me his Noxzema, he continued, "Use some of this. Rub it in a fast, circular motion, which helps the skin to regenerate," he said.
All that time, I smiled, thinking, "I'm not that bothered. It will fade with time."
Retroactively, his advice was a blessing, and the distinctive scent of Noxzema brings back fond memories of him.
After washing my face with Noxzema, it feels invigoratingly clean, without drying out my naturally dry skin.
Hydration and simple elegance are the key to looking fleeky, and a solid foundation starts with well-moisturised skin.
I drink a lot of water, and my go-to moisturiser is the Weleda cream, a certified natural skin care product.
I use the Skin Food Light in the daytime, and the original Skin Food at night, for a more intensive cell repair. Both make my face look plump and moist, and don't clog my pores. This product doesn't leave a film-like coating on the face, but instead absorbs deeply into the skin and works inside out.
When I returned to the UK in search of an effective and affordable product, I went to the popular Holland & Barrett health store and was introduced to the Weleda brand by the shop clerk.
I haven't looked back.
A single dab on the fingertips is all I need for my face and neck, so one tube lasts over a year.
I recently replaced these two, and it had been so long that I forgot the exact name.
I'd walked the aisles, failing to spot it. "I'm looking for the face cream called Well-ie-da—a reputable face cream in a green tube, I said to the cashier.
Eyes and ears in the shop perked, like they heard a familiar bell, and the cashier and a few customers repeated, 'Well-ie-da...?'
Perplexed.
The realisation dawned on them.
"Oh, 'Well-é-da', said the clerk.
A "classic" lady in the aisle said, "Here it is; I just picked up a tube."
We both beamed.
The skin of the lips is delicate.
I never ignore my lips.
Healthy-looking lips don't lie.
I am super self-conscious if my lips are dry.
I sometimes use this vaseline in layers, because I find the original and the cocoa butter to be more moisturising.
However, the tinted moisturising gloss is a secret for rosy lips.
The hint of colour enhances the entire face and makes the lips look magnetically plump.
External beauty fades, but a beautiful soul remains.
My self-esteem can neither be bought nor diminished by society's skin-deep beauty standard, because I believe that the core of beauty lies in simplicity and intrinsic values.
Also, the war against women's 'shelf life' is difficult to win, conclusively; therefore, having a beauty regimen that requires you to break the bank is pointless.
So, I proudly recommend all the above economical products that I use daily for a natural and healthy glow.
What are your views on minimalist skincare routines, and what's your regimen for maintaining healthy skin?