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Ageism Unveiled: Embracing Authentic Beauty in the Era of Anti-Aging
As a beauty writer focusing on skincare, I cannot count the number of times I have used the term “anti-aging” automatically in all my articles because it’s the most popular and commonly used word that is synonymous with describing fewer fine lines and wrinkles on smoother, brighter, and firmer skin — basically meaning younger-looking skin.
Recently, there’s been a lot of discussion on accepting aging because celebrities are speaking up about it. In an interview with Allure Magazine, actor Sarah Jessica Parker said, “I just don’t spend that much time [thinking about appearance].” Parker added that she is “not delusional” and aware that with age comes change.
Actor Anne Hathaway spoke with TODAY’s Sheinelle Jones and said, “I don’t think about age. To me, aging is another word for living.” It is refreshing to see celebrities speak of aging with optimism and acceptance. Still, the popularity of anti-aging products is growing exponentially because the global anti-aging market will hit $83.2 billion by 2027 (per Globe Newswire).
I attended a talk by Dr. Tracey Gendron on “Ageism” at the 2023 Gerontological Society of America (GSA) Annual Scientific Meeting in their Journalists in Aging Fellows Program. She made me question my personal views on aging and how I have been an ageist for…