Courtesy of wikipedia.com
A few months ago, I changed my Facebook photo. No big deal. The one I’d been using was 10 years old. I read somewhere that a person’s features change significantly every 10 years, so an update seemed timely.
A number of people noticed the switch and posted a thumbs-up, responses which I appreciated but were not required. At age 83, I’m unconcerned about turning heads or pretending I look younger than I am. Having a welcoming smile is the goal.
Naturally, at 83, I can’t be lured to the cosmetic counter with anti-aging promises. A clawback of 60 years would be more than I can expect from modern science. If asked, I’d say I’d like packaging with labeling large enough for me to read with my prescription glasses. Or, eyeliner that doesn’t pull the delicate skin around my lids when I apply it. Eyes tend to fade as we get older, so I draw a thin line near my upper lashes for a little pop.
My requirements aren’t extraordinary but specific and as aging populations around the world grow, cosmetic companies are becoming aware of the change in demographics. Half the women in Japan are over 50, for example. In China, the majority is approaching 60. The United Kingdom isn’t far behind with 40% of their women nearing 55. (“Old Age Could Be A Beauty Gold Mine,” by Lis Du and Grace Huang, Bloomberg Businessweek, Dec. 9, 2019, pg. 17.)
I’m glad cosmetic companies are observant about their market. At 103, my mother is still looking to “renew” herself. The goal of elder women isn’t to be alluring. The goal is to present an appearance that invites new friends. At 99, Kikue Fukuhara, the world’s oldest beauty consultant, would probably agree. (Ibid pg. 17.)
