We asked The Glossiest Beauty Panel [a panel of our readers] aged 40-plus about their philosophy on ageing. We were fascinated to know whether they have had or would consider cosmetic procedures or enhancements? The responses ranged from “Pro-ish” and “Extremely pro!” to “Definitely not for me”. Out of 44 responses, interestingly just over 22 per cent chose not to answer this question; 25 per cent were in favour of intervention for themselves; 15 per cent were on the fence, saying “never say never”; and a majority of 36 per cent were against interventions, saying “each to their own” but that they personally preferred to “age naturally”.

THE PRO-TEAM Are you pro- or anti-intervention? Responses included: “Very gently pro, but only want to look rested, not wind-tunnelled” to “Most definitely pro”. “A little help (that no one notices) makes me feel brighter.” Kerry (50-60) says: “I just want to look the best version of me, and see absolutely nothing wrong with a little intervention as long as it’s subtle.” Emma (40-50): “I’m very much pro. I’m aware of my age and don’t want to try and look like I’m 18 – but feel a subtle difference can go a long way in my opinion.” Zoe: “I think you age gracefully with a little help – there is no harm in intervention. My motto has always been less is more: I want to look good for my age but certainly don’t want to look like my children.” In the main, younger respondents were more open to considering procedures: Helen (30-40) says, “I’m pro whatever you want to do. I’ll give it a try if and when. There are also so many new non-invasive procedures like microneedling on the market that are worth trying for sure. Is hand Botox a thing? I think I’d do that one.” One panellist says, “I would not countenance fillers or implants but maybe some ‘light’ procedure such as eyelid lift. Am actually thinking of looking into this in 2022.”

NEVER SAY NEVER … “I haven’t used [injectables] to date but wouldn’t rule them out” was a common response. Margaret (40-50): “I will get Botox at some point but I invest in skincare and will hold off as long as possible on interventions.” Elaine (50-60) says: “Every line tells a story but I’m not quite ready to be a seanachai! I am a firm believer in microneedling and intense face masks. I haven’t taken the leap to injectables but may yet.” Clare: “I take my skincare seriously and find facial massage a key element in keeping my skin in the best condition I can. However, never say never to trying something more once there are proven results and the cost isn’t too prohibitive.” Several panellists said they were open to “non-invasive” treatments, citing ultrasound and microneedling; others said they keep an open mind towards Botox, with fillers being low down on the list. “Not anti-intervention, but wouldn’t be keen on invasive injectables,” said one.

NOT FOR ME Several non-tweakers said they prefer to rely on “excellent skincare, facials and facial massages.” Sheila: “I feel it’s a personal choice. But I would prefer to age (hopefully!) naturally and gracefully.” Regina says: “I am pro-active ageing – eating low-sugar, plant-based food, and movement – whatever gives me energy and a glow. These days it means fewer hardcore workouts in favour of walking, yoga and strength training. Plus expert skincare advice.” Sheila (40-50) is similar: “I’d rather focus on exercise, a holistic diet and sleep, plus organic/good quality skincare, SPF and facial exercises. The only place I’d consider Botox would be my forehead, but I know I wouldn’t actually do it. I hope that I can age gracefully.” Anne says: “My lines are my life experiences. I wish that when I was younger I appreciated my youthful appearance, but only life teaches us that.” Sarah: “Prefer to age naturally, love my laughter lines.” Clare: “Am definitely one for ageing gracefully (or disgracefully, depending on the day!).” Claire: “Ageing is a privilege, and I wish injectables were not seen as the norm – no, we are not all having them.” Maria (50-60) sums it up: “I would never get injections, or any procedure but I would never judge anyone who does, because if these treatments help a person’s mental health and make them feel good/confident, then go for it.”

SKINCARE Asked about the most effective skincare they’ve used, panellists mentioned La Roche-Posay, Clarins Double Serum, Biologique Récherche – and wearing SPF every day.

SKINCARE THAT WORKS

“We used to believe that what you put on your skin doesn’t make a difference,” says Dr Rosemary Coleman. “But now, we have sophisticated cosmeceuticals with active ingredients that can make a very big difference. Often, the mistake with skincare is ‘more is better’: it’s best to decide what to address and not overdo it, as this will strip the skin and damage its barrier. Wearing SPF daily is key.”

1. FOR A DAY GLOW Clarins Nutri-Lumière Revive is a new day cream with horse chestnut extract to revitalise the skin. €111, at counters nationwide.

2. FOR SKIN STRENGTH Lancôme Advanced Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate limited edition, €129, at Brown Thomas.

3. FOR TONE & TEXTURE Irish brand Kinvara’s Precious Face Oil is powered by bakuchiol, a plant-based alternative to retinol. €44.95, at pharmacies.

4. FOR BALANCING With Korean beauty technology, this serum balances the skin microbiome. Venn Skin Probiotic Cica Complex Biome Booster, €165, at SpaceNK.