Aging is hard... but it happens to all of us. Today I'm sharing my thoughts on aging gracefully.
Thanks for Neutrogena for sponsoring this post and allowing me to get personal about my beauty routine with you.
Hi everyone!
I wanted to stray a little of course of the traditional Fashion Friday and talk a little about something that weighs on my mind more than I actually care to admit... aging. Specifically my thoughts on aging gracefully. It's a subject I've touched on a few times as I've talked about getting older and finding lasting beauty. It's crazy how quickly the years pass and one day you wake up worrying about your skin tone, wrinkles and sprouts of gray hair.
I know there are readers of all ages reading this... but at any age it's something most of us women have on our mind in one way or another. You blink and wake up in your 30's it seems. <--- cue the Kenny Chesney song
This might sound crazy, but I feel like one day out of the blue I started noticing my smile lines. It was like they popped up out of nowhere. I remember showing the Hubs like it was some big shocking revelation and he laughed and said they were always there. He proceeded to show me his favorite picture of me at our wedding and pointed them out. I even think they retouched this photo a touch.
He said he loves them and he wouldn't change them at all. It was probably a good thing he said that because that day I was more than ready to head to the doctor for some needle intervention. It's crazy how something so superficial as wrinkles can cause us so much worry.
My point is that it happens to everyone. As the years continue to tick off, I've started to come to terms with it and realize I am lucky... wrinkles and all. One can only hope that their life has been filled with enough joy to get smile lines and wrinkles. Mine certainly has.
For now, I'm choosing to age gracefully.
(Although I reserve the right to change my mind in the future! I totally believe it's a women's prerogative to age the way she wants! And I am not judging if you choose a different path)
Now, just because I'm aging gracefully that doesn't mean I'm not doing anything at all about my skin and not taking care of it. It just means I'm not at this point using more drastic measures. I have a routine and would love to share it with you!
When I had the opportunity to work with Neutrogena on this blog post, they asked me to do a 7 day trail of their infamous Rapid Wrinkle Repair anti-aging skin care line. I had to write them back and say I'd love to share this with my readers BUT I can't do a before and after photos of a trial because I already use these products religiously.
From the moment I picked up Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair at the store years ago, I've been hooked. I've bought a lot of tubes over the years and these seem to be the only that actually worked.
Because of that, Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair is in my bathroom. I love this line because it includes a good dose of Accelerated Retinol SA, which is the #1 Dermatologist recommended anti-aging ingredient. It helps fight aging by allowing your surface skin to renew more often... therefore looking younger and fresher. Accelerated Retinol SA is better than just Retinol because it is able to penetrate the skins surface even better.
The lines includes Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Night Moisturizer which works wonders. If you were to just buy one, I'd get this one. There is also Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30, Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Serum AND Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream. You can pick up all of these at CVS!
They are all clinically proven to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, tone and texture. All things I have 100% noticed when using the product. No, this doesn't get those really deep smile lines, but it makes a profound difference in my skins texture, smoothness and fine lines.
The other anti-aging products I keep close-by are Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen. I keep these bottles in my purse, car and travel bags. They are awesome because they feature dermatologist-tested Helioplex Technology. I find them at CVS too!
As we all know, exposure to UVA rays can lead to premature fine lines, deep wrinkles and uneven skin tone. Between running, hiking and being obsessed with the beach I am always in the sun's rays. I know I can't reverse sun damage, but I can prevent more from happening. This stuff works on my fair skin wonderfully.
I love it for day to day wear because it has this really nice water-light texture spreads easily over skin, absorbing instantly for an invisible, weightless feel. It also provides an even, non-shiny finish that works beautifully alone or under makeup and moisturizers. So it doesn't really FEEL like you are wearing a bunch of sunscreen.
As I mentioned, I believe it's never too early to start using these products. I wish someone had shown me the way a long time ago!
Make sure to keep reading because at the bottom you have the chance to win ALL of the products mentioned in this post!!!! Woo-hooo!
So here's my mug. We'll call this the after shot.
No, it's not the same as a decade ago but I'm ok with that. I've learned a lot along the way and if given the choice I'd wouldn't give back the smile lines for the years and adventures.
One of the most important lessons I've learned... true beauty, grace and wisdom comes from within. Life is good, wrinkles and all.
Like this? I'd love it if you could pin this to your favorite Pinterest board!
Neutrogena Prize Pack Giveaway
Now here's your chance to win! Enter to win a pack of Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair & Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen goodies valued at $122!
The package includes: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Night Moisturizer, Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair, Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30, Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Serum, Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Liquid Daily Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 70 and Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face + Body Stick Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 70.
It's basically all the goodies in this post! Follow the instructions below. Good luck!
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Neutrogena.
I’m linking up with: Nicole for the Fit and Fashionable, Jolynne Shane for Fashion Friday, Turning Heads Tuesday and Thinking Out Loud Thursday. Thank you so much for the lovely linkup ladies.
Your turn!
What are you thoughts on aging gracefully?
Ivy Jiang says
sunny.xie@edgewell.com
sunny.xie@edgewell.com
Ivy Jiang says
sunny.xie@edgewell.com
Ivy Jiang says
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Focus Effect says
Have you ever thought about writing an ebook or guest authoring on other
websites? I have a blog centered on the same ideas you discuss and would love to have you share some stories/information. I know my readers would enjoy your work.
If you're even remotely interested, feel free to shoot me
an email.
Mary Ellen @ VNutrition says
I hear you about worrying about aging. I'm trying to age gracefully too but it's still on my mind when I see pictures of myself. I think you look great! You have a wonderful and positive attitude which radiates too!
JulieWunder says
Oh I know! I think I'm fine until I see a photo with bad lighting and yikes. If only I could walk around with perfect lighting all the time! haha j/k
lindsay Cotter says
embrace the skin we're in. Right? Yes! And you are STUNNING! I'm so glad you chose to share these thoughts (and amazing products) with us. Age is a number, let's keep it just at that.
JulieWunder says
You are too kind! Thank you Lindsay.
Alisa @ Go Dairy Free says
I'm so bummed I missed this giveaway! You are a beautiful representation of aging gracefully Julie - I honestly have no idea how old you are, but you just glow! So when you talk about a good anti-aging skin routine, I'm certainly reading it. I've been wondering about going back to good old Neutrogena. It was a part of my original "skin care routine" so many years ago.
JulieWunder says
Thank you so much! I'm 37 :-). For some reason I hate even typing that, which is ridiculous! I LOVE their creams and think they have really helped me. Start with the night one and add the others.
Alisa @ Go Dairy Free says
You're too funny! Smart that you are looking at skincare now, but I definitely wouldn't think of 37 as an age where you'd even discuss "aging gracefully"! You look amazing - no need to worry!
Megan @ With Salt and Wit says
You look great! Your skin looks amazing! I am going to have to get some of this Neutrogena and try it out!
JulieWunder says
Thanks so much Megan!
Rebecca | NOURISHED. the blog says
Love this post, Julie. Such a wonderful message!! Just recently I've started to really care for my skin and care about the products and ingredients that I put on my face. Good products definitely make a huge difference!
JulieWunder says
It does! Thanks so much Rebecca!
amanda -runtothefinish says
I've never thought aging was hard, it's a gift that means i"m still alive and I feel more confident with every year that passes!
JulieWunder says
So true! We are blessed!
Jill Snethen says
I've found using a moisturizer with Sunscreen every day and a good night cream has helped my skin.
JulieWunder says
Me too! Thanks Jill.
Emily says
Hmm... So I feel like this might be a bit unconventional, but I try to not wash my skin too much, because here in Colorado, it's so dry, and I struggle to keep my skin moisturized if I wash it too much. At the same time, I try to find moisturizers that will moisturize my skin without just making it greasy.
Most of all, I love your smile lines Julie; they speak to your joy!
JulieWunder says
You are so kind Emily! I really appreciate it. We are still pretty humid in NC, but I do notice the drier skin/air in winter.
Tiffany VanSickle says
I've been aging pretty gracefully, but the crows feet are starting to bug me! I'm 34 and got told a few days ago that I don't look old enough to have a 9-year-old. Score! Definitely going to be trying out the Neutrogena products!!!
JulieWunder says
Yay! That is a win! I got carded twice in one week the other week-- I felt like a kid!
Marina @ A Dancer's Live-It says
I always make sure to use sunscreen in the sun AND when it's cloudy. The UV rays are still there! I also love to buy lotions and chapsticks with SPF in them! 🙂 Thanks for the giveaway!
JulieWunder says
Such a great reminder! Thanks Marina!
Julia says
I use sunscreen whenever I am going to be in the sun for prolonged periods of time. I TRY to be consistent with a skincare routine but not always as successful!
JulieWunder says
It is hard! I'm def not perfect with it either, but I do the best I can.
Annemarie LeBlanc says
Its funny, I told my husband the same thing about wrinkles a few days ago. He said what I have are laugh lines, which is a whole lot better than having frown lines. I do use some facial creams t address the fine lines but I am not really that concerned about them. I would love to try this Neutrogena line too. They always have great skin care products. Oh, and BTW, I would rather not be called "old," because I am not old. I am experienced. 🙂
JulieWunder says
So true!! I'd much rather have laugh lines. I don't think I'll have call myself old... always young at heart!
Ali says
I Always use sunscreen and wear sunglasses when out in the sun. I met a lady one time who was around 70 she looked so much younger and her skin was flawless she told me to use Vaseline every night before bed. I been using that I hope it works like it did for her.
JulieWunder says
I've heard that before too! I wear sunglasses all the time, so maybe I'll be good!
Edye says
Girl, you look amazing! Although I'm only 17, I can relate to this topic. When I was in middle school and my body was changing into a young lady, I didn't like it. But, overtime I realized that this is my body and it's the way it's going to be. I might as well love myself for all I am; perfectly imperfect. Our bodies are amazing things that we take for granted at times. It's time we appreciate them <3
JulieWunder says
So true! It's important to remember that and appreciate what we have!
Abbey says
You look great love!! And I couldn't agree with you more, aging is a natural process and we shouldn't be scared of lines and wrinkles it just shows that you've lived!!
Esther says
Neutrogena was the very first brand of face wash I used YEARS ago! I still like their products, but I don't use them as often as I probably should. Haha
You are so right that laugh lines are part of life. I would rather have a face full of happy lines than to age with no wrinkles at all.
My go-to tip is to also stay hydrated and eat well (things I am sure you do too). I def can tell in my skin if I am off with my eating and hydration.
Fun giveaway!
Neely Moldovan says
I swear by neutrogena products. THey are simply the best for skin. Also you are gorgeous!
JulieWunder says
You are too kind! Thanks so much, Neely!
Wendy@Taking the Long Way Home says
You are so beautiful--I think you will age without a problem! No interventions needed! I just watched a movie, Joy, starring Jennifer Lawrence and I couldn't help but notice that her forehead was as smooth as a baby's bottom. It didn't look natural to me. I like a little bit of lines in a woman's face. But at 54, I'm feeling more like a road map!
JulieWunder says
You are too kind! Thank you Wendy. I think it's pretty standard to get botox and fillers in Hollywood... makes us real folks think something is wrong with us! You are looking fabulous as well and getting better with age!
Joan says
Thanks for sharing. I only use Dove soap and Oil of Olay on my face. I have several age spots. Will this help to lighten them up?
JulieWunder says
Hi Joan! So the retinol will always help but I do know from shopping that they make one called Rapid Tone Control that is specific for age spots. 🙂
glenneth says
fantastic giveaway! i need to be better about night cream and eye serum. i start a routine and then quickly fall off.
JulieWunder says
It is hard to keep up with! I keep them right on my counter for easy access.
Stephanie G says
Coconut and rose hip oils have been my go to anti aging products I turn to these days. Theses seem to do the job and really brighten my skin. I'm always willing to try new things though. I'm now curious if Neutrogena would do a better jog?. This would be a great giveaway to win. Thanks YOU for sharing.
JulieWunder says
I use both of those too actually and love them. I really think the retinol is worth adding. It makes your skin smoother and get the lines in ways the oil doesn't.
Carrie says
What an awesome giveaway! Before I started making of my own products and moved to Norway I used Neutrogena products a lot. I really enjoyed their products.
JulieWunder says
Thanks Carrie! I'll have to check out your DIY ones.
Tee says
Such a great topic... one that weighs heavily on my own mind. I'm turning 35 next year so I am overly aware of the gray hairs, and new wrinkles. Some days I deal with it better than others but, like you, at the end of the day I'm just glad I've had so much laughter in my life that I have those laugh lines and crows feet!
JulieWunder says
Yes, at the end of the day that is what is really important. Still... it's hard to take!
zim says
You have a beautiful skin and I love how you embrace age. I'll have to give Neutrogena a try. Strange enough, I've used multiple products over the years but never thought of trying this one.
JulieWunder says
You are too kind! Thanks so much Zim!
Ilka says
A great skincare line is so much better than any injections any day of the week!
JulieWunder says
I totally agree! Thanks Ilka!
Kristy from Southern In Law says
I'll take ageing gracefully and LIVING over injecting my body with chemicals and having crazy surgeries every day!
I have a very "expressive forehead" (we shall call it!) and my Mum has always said "don't scrunch your face like that - you'll end up with wrinkles" - but I always tell her that I'd rather retell stories and have conversations with passion than be wrinkle free and boring 😉
JulieWunder says
ME TOOOOOO!!!! My Mom used to say the same thing. I do have lines now... but pretty much everyone else my age does too. So no worries!! Keep living the BIG life!
valmg @ Mom Knows It All says
I think aging gracefully is more of a mental matter than a physical one. As far as appearance go I have oily skin which has left my skin looking pretty young in my opinion.
JulieWunder says
I think that does make a difference and YES it is a mental game, as with nearly everything in life.
Farrah says
You're always so gorgeous, and yay for Neutrogena! :] I really like their products! Love that you can get em' at CVS! I've been trying to use up all my skin care products--I love their sunscreen too! Sun protection is so important!
Thanks for the giveaway!
JulieWunder says
You are too kind!! Thank you so much.
Tara @ A Daily Dose of Fit says
Such a cute scarf! I didn't even notice any lines on your face, for what it's worth.
JulieWunder says
HUGS!!! Thanks Tara.
Tina@GottaRunNow says
I use Neutrogena face wash and the Neutrogena Rapid Repair Night sounds like something I'd like, too. When I run, I like to apply sunblock especially on sunny days when I do long runs like today.
JulieWunder says
Hi Tina! I keep it in my car for that reason! I think you love that night repair. It makes a big difference within a week.
Meranda@Fairytalesandfitness says
I would love to win all this! I keep saying that I don't need to worry about wrinkles yet but of course THIS IS the time I need to worry about it. I guess i've just been in denial..lol
JulieWunder says
Haha! Yes! You can never start too early!
Angela @marathonsandmotivation.com says
Great post and important reminders! I do like Neutrogena products, so will give these a try 🙂
JulieWunder says
Thanks Angela! I hope you like them.
Mary Beth Jackson says
I would love to try the products! I am 50 and holding strong- LOL! I few wrinkles here and there builds character 🙂 You are beautiful as always!
JulieWunder says
Exactly!!! You look fabulous!! The products are great-- I'm sure you'd love them.
Tiffany@GreaterThanYesterdayNutrition says
Thank you for sharing!!
It's so funny that in my teens - I skipped the sunscreen for a tan to look older. Now - I never leave the house without SPF on my face because I don't want to look old 🙂
JulieWunder says
Ohhhh I feel ya! The things we did in our teens to look older! haha!!!
Kayla @ Blondes Have More Run says
You have a BEAUTIFUL smile! Listen to your hubby! He's not only saying that because he has to 🙂 You look like you're in your twenties, so whatever you're doing, it's working for you!
JulieWunder says
Thanks Kayla! I think so too! I did get carded twice this week... so I guess I'm winning at this whole aging thing 🙂
Debbie@debbiethisandthat.com says
Your skin looks beautiful! I try to age gracefully by remaining grateful for all I have been given. It's a blessing to have so many years behind me and I figure I "earned" all the wrinkles and gray hairs! But...I don't have to show them off!! 🙂
JulieWunder says
Haha! I feel ya!!
Kerri McGrail says
Love how you embrace aging! I am still pretty young but I love to take care of my skin and my health through diet, natural products, and exercising 🙂
JulieWunder says
Such great reminders that diet and exercise make a huge difference too.
Liz @ I Heart Vegetables says
You have SUCH gorgeous skin! I was actually just thinking about how I should start using products like this and take care of my skin! It's never too early to start!
JulieWunder says
I agree! It's never too early and makes such a difference when you get older.
Gingi Freeman says
I lived on this brand as a teen... great post and fun giveaway!! <3 - http://www.domesticgeekgirl.com
JulieWunder says
Thanks Gingi! Yes-- remember the Neutrogena girl???
Tricia @MissSippiPiddlin says
I've been thinking more and more about aging products over just the last 5 years. I do love your attitude and I'm like you I've learned so much and smiled so much the last 5 years. It's hard to take all that back!
Thanks for this!
JulieWunder says
It is!! One can only hope to have smile lines!
christine says
I've always been a fan of the neutrogena products. I am turning 40 this year and it's an eye opener, I need to be taking care of my skin as best as I can!
JulieWunder says
It seems to get important quick! Thanks so much Christine!
Dani @ Dani California Cooks says
I've got serious smile lines around my eyes too! I use a dermatologist prescription of retinoid to combat aging/skin tone/texture in the evening with a super hydrating night cream, and then in the morning an antioxidant cream and zinc sunscreen! Living in CA is no joke!
JulieWunder says
That is one awesome beauty routine!!!
Nellwyn says
I hope I'll be able to age as gracefully and beautifully as you! I've had a little stripe of grey hair since I was 19 and every once in a while I consider growing it out, but then I always end up covering it with highlights!
JulieWunder says
You are too kind! Thank you! 19? I have just a couple that keep coming out... I've avoided coloring but might have to finally take care of it too.
sheila austin says
My skincare tip would be to use lots of sunscreen.
I've been looking for a new skin care regime and I would love to try this. I hope I win.
JulieWunder says
Thanks Sheila! Good luck!
Nicole @ Fitful Focus says
You are so beautiful! I've started using some eye creams and things over the past 2 years to help age gracefully, as well. While I don't have many wrinkles yet, when they come I want to be able to accept them as a natural and beautiful part of life. 🙂
JulieWunder says
It's never too early to start! I wish I could have in my 20's with the retinol.
Blane Sherer says
I have seen you regularly since you first began working
at WLOS. Beautiful then and beautiful now. Aging gracefully
for sure. Speaking of your years at WLOS, I'm watching the
coverage of Hurricane Matthew. Whew !
JulieWunder says
Thanks Blane! I'm glad to be safe, warm and dry in the mountains and not out in that.
Gayle says
The Neutrogena Rapid Repair Night is fantastic. Also, I play golf and wouldn't go out on the course without putting on Neutrogena sun screen. People are always amazed when they find out my age; they think I'm much younger.
Jean says
I'm 62 years old and I agree that avoiding the sun when possible and using a good sunscreen when you are out in it helps prevent skin damage and aging. I also have never smoked and that makes a difference in your skin. Exercise is also very important because it keeps the blood flowing and seems to plump up the skin.
Patricia @Sweet and Strong says
I use some products to help reverse sun spots. I was not so good to my skin in my high school and college years, but now I'm all about the sunscreen. I haven't really considered any wrinkle products though, but have started noticing my eyes get heavier, especially when I'm stressed at work. And I love smile lines 🙂
Wayne Burgess says
The smile lines are less important than the smiles.
Heather @Lunging Through Life says
I honestly have been looking at something to take now to help prevent wrinkles. I need to take better care of my skin! I'm checking into these for sure. I would say sunscreen is my best tip, and one that I still don't do religiously.. womp womp ha! Thanks for the giveaway!
Judy Crowder says
Luckily I have very good "genes"! People are always amazed when I tell them my age (57) and that I have 3 grandchildren. After years of blistering my skin in the sun, I stared using Neutrogena sunscreen products and absolutely love them. My husband will even use them, which is a blessing, he works outside year round.
Linda says
I've used the 'best of the best' and now that I'm "older" I truly believe you don't have to spend a fortune to keep your skin looking the best it can be. Thanks Julie. I'm going to give your skin care line a try. Have a great weekend and keep smiling. ?
Deborah @ Confessions of a mother runner says
I do love the Neutrogena products. I can certainly be better at sun protection myself. Aging has not been easy for me but I am doing my best to stay healthy and in shape and young.
Shelley Marcy says
I remember noticing my laugh lines about the same age you did. They are a bit deeper now at 55, but they still remind me of just how happy I am to have smiled that much!?