25 Things I’ve Learned As I’ve Gotten Older… And Wiser!

Aging isn’t all wrinkles and gray hairs. Sure, there’s a bit of that, but there’s also so much wisdom (and beauty!) that comes with each passing year.

Aging is an adventure, and as I get older, I realize that wisdom comes from experience, and sometimes, a little trial and error. But one thing’s for sure; I’m embracing this next chapter with open arms, a lot of grace, and a little extra lash power.

Here are 25 things I’ve learned as I’ve gotten older, wiser, and, if I am being honest, a little more fabulous along the way.

1. Eyelashes Are Everything

I don’t care how you do it—extensions, serums, a really good mascara—eyelashes make any look complete. They can elevate your whole face in seconds, and if you’ve got extensions, they’ll save you precious minutes in the morning. Plus, who doesn’t love a fluttery lash moment?

2. Marry Your Best Friend

Seriously, if you’re going to spend forever with someone, make sure they’re someone you genuinely like as a person. It’s not just about romance; it’s about being with someone who will love you with all your quirks, laugh at your weirdest jokes, and still be your biggest cheerleader even when you’ve had a rough day.

3. Great Skin = Confidence

Nothing, and I mean nothing, makes you feel more like a million bucks than waking up with glowing, clear skin. So invest in skincare that works for you, and don’t underestimate the power of a good facial. It’s not about vanity — it’s about feeling your best!

4. Find a Great Aesthetic Provider (Injector) — But Trust Them When They Say No

You know that feeling when you leave your aesthetic provider or injectables appointment and you look fabulous, but not like a completely different person? That’s the magic. A good injector knows when to stop, and they’ll remind you that less is more!

5. Be Comfortable in Your Own Skin, BUT GLP-1s Are Game Changers

You need to love yourself and become comfortable in your own shape, size and skin, BUT if you haven’t heard about GLP-1s (like Ozempic or Wegovy), listen to me! These little miracle workers are life savers for anyone looking to manage their weight or metabolism. They help with insulin resistance, appetite control and can make a huge difference in how you feel day-to-day.

6. Life Is a Series of Seasons

Some days you’re in a winter, other days it feels like the sun will never set. Embrace it all. Sometimes the tough seasons give way to the best ones, and each chapter helps shape who you’re becoming.

7. Grown Children Getting Married is a Roller Coaster

When your kids start getting married, it’s like watching someone else’s dream come true, but you still feel like you should be telling them where the snacks are and reminding them to wear a jacket in the cold. It’s a weird combo of pride, joy, and a teeny bit of “How did we get here so fast?!” Embrace every second with them.

8. Losing a Loved One Never Gets Easier

Losing a parent, a pet, or anyone you love doesn’t have a timetable. It’s something that stays with you, and even though the grief changes over time, it’s always there. But you learn how to carry it, and eventually, it doesn’t hurt as much—just differently.

9. Confidence Isn’t About Perfection

Somewhere along the way, I learned that confidence is not about having everything together—it’s about being comfortable in your own skin, quirks, and all. And guess what? Imperfections make you interesting.

10. Never Underestimate the Power of a Good Lip Gloss

A swipe of lip gloss can instantly take you from “I rolled out of bed 10 minutes ago” to “I’m ready to conquer the world.” Seriously, this one product does it for me and can be a total mood booster.

11. Quality Friends Are Everything

Friendships should be about quality, not quantity. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, who you can call at 2 a.m. when life feels hard, and who make you laugh until your stomach hurts. You don’t need a huge circle, just the right people.

12. Don’t Sleep on Hydration

Water, water, water. Drink it like you’re a desert cactus, and your skin will thank you. Dehydration shows up faster than you think—on your face, your mood, and even your energy levels.

13. Take the Trip

It’s easy to talk yourself out of taking that weekend getaway or booking that vacation. But life moves fast, and if you don’t hit pause every once in a while, you’ll burn out. Travel, explore, and make memories.

14. It's Okay to Say "No"

It took me a while to learn this one. Saying “no” isn’t rude—it’s setting boundaries. Protect your time, energy, and mental health.

15. Practice Gratitude, Even on the Hard Days

It’s not always easy to find things to be grateful for, but even on the toughest days, there’s always something small to appreciate—a hot cup of tea, a great song, or the sun peeking through the clouds.

16. Laughter Really Is the Best Medicine

If you haven’t laughed today, stop what you’re doing and watch a funny video or call a friend who knows how to crack you up.

17. Self-Care Isn’t Selfish

Taking time for yourself is necessary, not indulgent. Whether it’s a quiet bath, meditating, or a facial, you deserve to recharge.

18. You’re Never Too Old for an Impromptu Dance Party

Put on your favorite song and dance like no one’s watching.

19. Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder—But Confidence is the True Glow Up

A confident person can make anything look good. Whether you’re wearing a full face of makeup or none at all, confidence is the secret ingredient that really makes you glow.

20. There’s No Such Thing as Too Much SPF

Protecting your skin from the sun is a non-negotiable. I don’t care if it’s cloudy—SPF should be part of your daily routine. Wrinkles may be inevitable, but sun damage doesn’t have to be.

21. It’s Okay to Outgrow People

As you get older, you may find that some relationships no longer serve you. And that’s okay! Surround yourself with those who lift you higher and leave behind those who drag you down.

22. Pet Love is Pure Magic

Losing a pet is one of the hardest things you’ll go through, but the love they give while they’re here is unmatched. Cherish the snuggles, the tail wags, and those quiet moments together.

23. Be Kind to Your Younger Self

The things you worried about when you were younger? They likely don’t matter anymore. Cut yourself some slack. You’ve grown, and that’s worth celebrating.

24. Success Looks Different at Every Age

What success means in your 20’s may not be the same in your 50’s, and that’s perfectly fine. Success is about doing what makes you feel fulfilled and proud of the person you’ve become.

25. Cherish Every Moment—They Go By Fast

Time moves quickly, especially when you’re looking back. So, cherish the little moments—those quiet mornings, the hugs, the shared laughter. One day, those will be the memories you hold onto the tightest.


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Teri Cosenzi

I'm Teri, your resident beauty expert. While I'm not playing with beauty products, painting my nails or shopping for makeup with my daughter who loves trying products with me, you will probably find me sneaking off to Florida with my husband of over 25 years or cheering on one of my three sons. I like baking, re-decorating, drinking tea, fussing with my flowers and facials.

Must Have Medical Grade Sunscreen That Works

Finding the right sunscreen to work for my skin not only for the summer but year round has been a challenge. I am picky when it comes to the sunscreen that I wear.

When it comes to sunscreen, I demand sun protection, prefer mineral based sunscreen, and do not want a sunscreen that will interfere with my makeup. I also don’t want a sunscreen that irritates my skin. That is of very high importance to me. Not a very tall order.

Alastin Medical-Grade Sunscreen

I am a big fan of medical grade skincare so it should be no surprise that I am a big fan of medical-grade sunscreen. This year, I found the perfect medical-grade sunscreen combination that works for me and my skin. And when I say combo, I mean that in the best way possible.

You see, when I am going for a very natural or everyday no-makeup makeup look, I use Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36. It is a lightweight, all-mineral sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection. It hydrates and protects skin from harmful UVA/ UVB rays while providing a soft, glow.

Alastin HydraTint Sunscreen

When I have been outdoors this summer, I combine Alastin HydraTint with Alastin SilkSHIELD All Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30. This combo has worked for me all day at the pool and beach, no matter how long I have stayed in the sun. I do wear a big beach hat and sunglasses and stay under an umbrella as much as possible; as long as I am not washing it off in the pool or ocean, this combination protects my skin all day.

Alastin SilkSHIELD All Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 is made with Alastin’s proprietary Tri-Hex technology. With powerful yet gentle protection, this transparent sunscreens peptide blend provides anti-aging benefits long after sunset.

Alastin ShilkSHIELD All Mineral Sunscreen

I am thrilled that I found this combination. I pump two pumps of the HydraTint and dollop about the size of a nickel of the SilkSHIELD into the palm of my hand and blend them together. The combination of the two sunscreens is very light and silky. I apply this combination all over my face, neck, and decollete. As I said above, as long as I am not going into the water or washing this combination off, this lasts for me and protects my skin from the sun all day long.

Medical-Grade Sunscreen Combo
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Teri Cosenzi

I'm Teri, your resident beauty expert. While I'm not playing with beauty products, painting my nails or shopping for makeup with my daughter who loves trying products with me, you will probably find me sneaking off to Florida with my husband of over 25 years or cheering on one of my three sons. I like baking, re-decorating, drinking tea, fussing with my flowers and facials.

bareMinerals Tag Team for Dry Lips

Dry lips can be a real pain, especially in the wintertime. But there's no need to suffer when you have two powerful allies from bareMinerals on your side: Ageless Phyto-Retinol Lip Balm and Ageless Phyto-Retinol Lip Mask! These two products might seem redundant, but together they can provide long-lasting relief from dryness. Read on to learn how to use them for the best results.

Ageless Phyto-Retinol Lip Balm is your solution to not only long-lasting hydration, but this nourishing lip balm also helps to reduce fine lines and improve lip texture with its plant-based retinol-alternative complex. Made with hyaluronic acid and rosemary extract, this balm provides soothing hydration and antioxidant benefits. Softer, smoother lips are just a swipe away when used throughout the day.

Tag team the Lip Balm with Ageless Phyto-Retinol Lip Mask and be guaranteed soft and smoother lips round the clock.

Ageless Phyto-Retinol Lip Mask is a vegan lip mask that features a plant-based retinol alternative that gently renews lip appearance, while hydrating and significantly improving the look of fine lines. Enriched with moisture-replenishing Hyaluronic Acid and Papaya Enzymes, this leave-on lip mask is clinically shown to replenish essential moisture, smooth fine lines, and boost lip radiance over time. See and feel the difference.

I highly recommend using both products together (tag team!) to achieve maximum results and long-lasting relief from wintertime chapped lip woes. For best results, apply the Lip Balm as needed throughout the day, then follow with the Lip Mask as your last step before bed.

What do you use for dry lips in the winter? Share your product finds and tips in our comments section!

Purchase at bareminerals.com.