Extending one’s youthful appearance — sometimes called a ‘hotspan’ — may have more to do with everyday habits than with pricey cosmetic procedures, according to advice from dermatologists, hairdressers and fashion experts compiled by The Guardian.
The most impactful anti-ageing step, says London-based aesthetic expert Dr Jennifer Owens, is daily UV protection, regardless of weather or season. She notes that up to 90% of visible skin ageing stems from UV exposure, making it the single most important factor. Meanwhile, uneven skin tone, she adds, is often more ageing than wrinkles — and more fixable, with home care, peels or microneedling able to reverse existing sun damage. A course of three microneedling sessions can boost collagen production for months and be repeated annually.
Style and posture also play a part. Personal trainer Nick Finney, who counts Jennifer Lopez among his clients, recommends strengthening the body’s posterior chain, from the rear muscles to the back, while keeping chest muscles mobile, so that tight pectorals don’t pull the shoulders forward — good posture instantly reads as younger and slimmer.
Fashion editors weigh in on wardrobe choices: avoid slogan-laden clothing, especially anything with the words ‘dance’ or ‘love’ or French phrases, which one columnist likens to a ‘Live, laugh, prosecco’ kitchen sign. Ironing is out — creased natural fabrics now signify effortless chic, says Morwenna Ferrier. Smaller handbags are in, as phones can replace the need to carry an array of items, and bulky wallet-style phone cases are best swapped for slim covers.
When it comes to hair, long styles are not reserved for the young. Sali Hughes, beauty expert at The Guardian’s Saturday magazine, says healthy, shoulder-length hair in any colour, including grey, looks great on women over 50. Hairdresser George Northwood agrees that hair condition matters more than age when choosing a cut — the key question is whether the style looks ‘relevant’.
Dental care is another overlooked factor. Teeth that are discoloured, crooked or missing can age a face considerably, says Hughes. Dentist Jenni Rawes notes that enamel thins with age, exposing darker, more porous dentine that stains easily. She recommends regular hygiene visits and at-home whitening trays as low-effort ways to brighten the smile, at a typical cost of around £375.
Finally, experts caution against dressing strictly by age. Commentator Derek Guy appreciates seeing older men adopt youthful fashions, while stylist Simon Chilvers warns that some trends, such as ‘visible boxer shorts’, may read as a wardrobe malfunction later in life.