So how much do you care? How much time and effort do you spend worrying about, and fussing over, the state of your skin and your beauty routines? Well, according to a new AARP survey of women that examines attitudes about aging, beauty, and the media, most of us still retain our interest in beauty and personal grooming, even as we advance in age. 89% of female baby boomers surveyed report that beauty and personal grooming remained important for them. And the survey respondents said they spend significant time and money on beauty products and personal maintenance (though they had less than kind words- or loyalty- for beauty companies). At the same time, older women also reported that “intrinsic beauty” (including such traits as kindness and character) is more important as you get older than physical beauty.

In another recent survey of women conducted by InStyle magazine, 1800 women ages 18-74 reveal their biggest concerns about their skin to be uneven skin tone, as well as undereye dark circles and bags. Women over 50 especially noted concern about age spots and loss of skin elasticity. And for those on such social media platforms as Instagram or who use FaceTime, you know that filters on these apps allow you to shape, transform or even “perfect” your skin and facial features. With one click, all of your skincare problems can just disappear to the viewer! Maybe as older adults, most women can resist this drive for the perfect face, but apparently, these social media apps are driving younger women to seek out real-life plastic surgery as a result of this elevation of perfection.

But the lived reality of most older women is the desire to be the best version of themselves while recognizing physical beauty is no longer the one and only goal. And in pursuit of that comes advice from Drs. Patricia Yarberry Allen and Annetta Reszko writing on the blog Women’s Voices For Change. For Dr. Allen, a gynecologist, her expertise tells her that the most important part of a skincare routine is how we choose to live everyday life. Her advice? Alcohol moderation, social engagement, sleep, exercise and time for family, friends, and community will all add up to a better complexion and a more fulfilling life. Dr. Reszko, a dermatologist, has more concrete advice that underscores that your daily beauty routines can have a big impact if you take the time and learn to do things right. She gives you the rundown on what to look for in cleansers, toners, moisturizers, and serums and how to apply them for maximum effect. So pull out that make-up mirror and take a look here.