The Face of Healthy Aging

What is “healthy aging?” It is a phrase that has become common in skin wellness circles and many have a vague idea about what it means. Healthy aging, on paper, requires a wellness way of life, including healthy eating, plenty of rest, little stress, great skin care habits, lots of exercise and a general sense of well-being. It is a way of life that can start very early and can be carried on throughout the years, if a person makes the correct choices. Although healthy aging is a goal for many and a lifestyle for some, when I think about healthy aging, I think about people who work to contribute throughout their years.

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Elina’s Organics Advanced Skin Care Spa in Chicago where I met the dynamic owner Elina Fedotova. While I had the opportunity to experience the best facial in Chicago, according to Chicago magazine (and I can testify that it was amazing), we had the opportunity to discuss the role of skin care professionals. Although Elina acknowledged that she is a giver to her clients, she also made reference to two clients who give her much joy; both are senior citizens. She told a story about how both women—one, an octogenarian who found true love in her twilight years, and the other, a dedicated dancer who took on the risks of surgery after a foot injury in order to continue to do the fox trot—had inspired her with their interpretation of healthy aging. She raved about their beauty, their investment in the health of their skin, their attitudes, and how much pleasure she took in working with them.

These women are the faces of healthy aging, as are those in their earlier years who take care of both themselves and others, inside and outside, mentally, physically and spiritually.

In this issue

In the article “Healthy Aging Through the Ages” by Rhonda Allison on Page 48, the skin care needs of various ages, ranging from the teens to the 50s, are detailed, including what their needs are and how to address them. Take some time to review this information and figure out how to best customize your professional skin care treatments for clients in these age ranges.

In “A Deeper Look at Extrinsic Aging” on Page 56, Jennifer Linder, MD, takes a closer look at some of the causes of aging poorly and how to address them with your clients; and in Teresa Paquin’s article “The Over-50 Makeover” on Page 78, she provides a step-by-step makeup application for more mature clients, providing a simple and radiant makeup look for those who may be frustrated with the results of makeup on their skin.

Are you setting a good example?

Not only do people who embody healthy aging benefit themselves, but, like Elina’s clients did for her, they inspire others to want to live better, more fulfilling lives. Help your clients understand and start living a healthy aging lifestyle, and don’t be afraid to ask yourself and your team members: Are you setting a good example of healthy aging for your clients?

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