Sometimes Grandma's Beauty Tips Outshine Blogger Advice – Here Are 50 Awesome Examples!
23 Sep 2024Aging can feel a bit daunting — wrinkles, sagging skin, the slowing down of youthful energy — but it’s time to ditch those fears! The truth is, aging isn’t the enemy. It’s a journey, and who better to guide us along the way than our grandmas? These wise women have spent decades mastering the art of looking and feeling fabulous, and now they’re spilling their beauty secrets. From skincare tips to old-school beauty hacks, here’s a rundown of timeless advice that has kept grandmas glowing through the years.
Cut Your Nails Shortly
There’s something about polished, well-groomed nails that makes you feel put together. But grandmas know a little something about practicality. As you get older, keeping your nails short becomes more than just a style choice — it’s a necessity. Short nails are easier to maintain, prevent breakage, and help avoid nasty issues like ingrown nails or infections. Whether you’re typing away at a computer or digging into the garden, shorter nails are just plain functional. And let’s face it, grandmas are always right.
Besides, trimming those claws regularly is a simple way to stay hygienic, not to mention less hassle when doing daily tasks like cooking or caring for grandkids. So, when you spot a grandma sporting a chic, short manicure, know that she’s got this beauty thing down to a science!
Avoid Overwashing Your Face
A solid skincare routine is non-negotiable but did you know that you can actually overdo it? Grandmas will tell you: washing your face multiple times a day or scrubbing too hard can strip your skin of its natural oils. And guess what? Those oils are actually your friends! They keep your skin moisturized and healthy.
You don’t need a cabinet full of toners, scrubs, and serums. A gentle cleanser and warm water do the trick just fine. Over-washing can lead to irritation and dryness, two things we definitely want to avoid as we age. So take a page from grandma’s book — cleanse smartly, and let your skin’s natural glow shine through.
Beautiful Pedicure
We spend so much time focusing on our hands and faces that our feet often get overlooked. But grandmas know the value of a good pedicure. Sure, it’s nice to slap on some cute polish, especially when sandal season rolls around. But more importantly, pedicures help with foot health. Removing dead skin and trimming toenails properly can improve circulation, prevent infections, and avoid pesky ingrown nails.
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It’s not just about vanity — it’s about feeling good from the ground up. Plus, let’s not forget how relaxing a pedicure can be. Grandmas know how important it is to treat yourself every now and then, and they’re the queens of turning even the simplest beauty ritual into a moment of self-care. So, whether you’re going DIY or hitting up your local salon, don’t forget to give your feet the love they deserve.
Don’t Worry About Under-Eye Bags!
Under-eye bags have no age limit. From your twenties to your nineties, they have a way of showing up at the worst times. But grandmas have a remedy for that, and it’s not found in a pricey department store. Instead, they turn to the fridge. That’s right — a chilled tea bag or a few slices of cucumber under the eyes can work wonders.
These natural remedies are packed with antioxidants that help reduce puffiness and redness, giving you a refreshed look in minutes. Cucumber slices, with their high water content and cooling effect, soothe and hydrate the skin, while tea bags (especially green or black) contain caffeine and tannins that tighten the skin. Who needs a fancy eye cream when grandma’s kitchen has all the answers?
Favorite Hairspray
If there’s one product that’s stood the test of time in every grandma’s beauty arsenal, it’s hairspray. Whether it’s a neat bob or a perfectly coiffed updo, grandmas rely on this wonder product to keep every strand in place. The iconic Aqua Net hairspray became a beauty must-have back in the 1960s and continues to be a favorite today.
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Celebrities swore by it but it was the everyday women who really made it a household name. Its powerful hold and affordable price (you can still snag a can for about $2) make it unbeatable. And the best part? It works for all hair types. Grandmas don’t have time to deal with flyaways or frizz, so they stick to what’s tried, true, and totally reliable.
Permanently Thick Eyebrows
Eyebrow trends have come and gone but thick, bold brows are here to stay, and we couldn’t be happier! Thanks to icons like Cara Delevingne and Lily Collins, the world has finally embraced fuller brows as the ultimate beauty statement. But if you ask your grandma, she’ll tell you thick brows were never a trend — they’ve always been the way to go.
Grandmas have seen eyebrow fashions shift over the years, from the pencil-thin lines of the 1920s to the natural looks of the '70s, and now back to big and bold. Their secret? Keep it natural. Full brows frame the face, soften features, and are much easier to maintain. No overplucking or worrying about sparse patches — just let them do their thing. And let’s be honest, it’s one less beauty routine we need to stress over!
Adoring Natural Nails
While we love bright, bold nail art these days, our grandmas were all about simplicity. The elaborate acrylic nails that we see so often today weren’t even on the radar back in the day. Instead, natural nails were the norm. Many grandmas kept their nails bare, and as it turns out, that decision may have kept their nails healthier in the long run.
One celebrity nail tech, Elle, shared with Reader’s Digest how her grandma, a nurse, never wore nail polish. She couldn’t due to work restrictions but it became a habit she stuck with. Over time, her natural nails became stronger and healthier, proving that sometimes less is more when it comes to nail care.
A Modest Amount of Olive Oil
Here’s a beauty tip passed down from the kitchens of Italy: olive oil. Whether it's for dry skin or dull hair, a little olive oil can work wonders. Valerie Albertini, a beauty expert, learned from her Italian grandma that olive oil is a versatile, natural remedy. Just a few drops can soothe dry spots and give your skin a radiant glow.
This age-old secret dates back to ancient Rome, where olive oil was mixed with herbs like lavender and eucalyptus for a nourishing treatment. So before you splurge on expensive moisturizers, consider reaching for that bottle of olive oil in your kitchen — it’s a grandma-approved beauty elixir!
Curvaceous Eyelashes
We all envy those with naturally long, curly lashes but for the rest of us, a little extra effort is required. Luckily, grandmas have a few tried-and-true tricks for luscious lashes. First, always keep your lash curler clean. It may sound simple but old mascara buildup can lead to damage and breakage. Clean it before each use to give your lashes the love they deserve.
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And when it comes to applying mascara, less is more. Grandmas recommend a light hand — no need to pile it on! A single coat applied carefully can make all the difference in giving you that wide-eyed, fresh look.
Use Your Eye Color to Your Advantage
When it comes to eye makeup, grandmas believe that the key is to enhance, not overwhelm. Rather than going wild with every shade in your palette, it’s all about using colors that complement your eye color. Green eyes pop with purple shades, blue eyes shine with copper tones, and brown eyes look radiant with earthy golds.
This simple technique not only brings out the best in your eyes but also creates a timeless look that works for any occasion. While experimenting is always fun, grandma knows that sometimes sticking to what works best for you is the smartest move.
Vibrantly Сolored Eyeliner
Who says eyeliner has to be basic black? If there’s one thing grandmas have learned over the years, it’s that a pop of color can do wonders for your look. Using colored eyeliner — blues, greens, or even purples — can brighten your eyes and add a playful touch to your makeup routine.
Many grandmas are fans of using softer colors to highlight their natural beauty, and they believe that dark, harsh eyeliner can sometimes overpower their features. So why not switch things up and try a fun, vibrant liner next time? You might just love the way it looks!
First And Foremost, Comfort
When it comes to fashion, we often sacrifice comfort for style. But grandmas know better. As they’ve gotten older, they’ve learned that comfort is key — but that doesn’t mean sacrificing style! The secret lies in finding pieces that feel as good as they look.
Grandmas believe in dressing for yourself, not for others. They’ve spent a lifetime refining their wardrobes to focus on pieces that make them feel confident and comfortable, a philosophy we could all benefit from. After all, what’s the point of looking great if you’re not feeling great too?
Beauty in Moderation
Remember those teenage years when you’d cake on the makeup and think you looked fabulous? Well, our grandmas definitely had a good chuckle at our expense back then but they might have been onto something. As we get older, we realize that a lighter hand often yields better results.
Grandmas have mastered the art of the "less is more" approach. Simple makeup routines that focus on enhancing natural beauty tend to be more flattering and gentler on the skin. Whether it’s skipping foundation or opting for a neutral eyeshadow, grandmas know how to strike the perfect balance between makeup and natural beauty.
Red Lips Forever!
While nude lipsticks have taken center stage in recent years, grandmas remain loyal to the classic red lip. It’s bold, timeless, and a guaranteed confidence booster. Back in their day, a red lip was a go-to look for any occasion, and honestly, it’s never gone out of style.
Some grandmas even have different shades of red for day and night, proving that this look can be as versatile as it is stunning. If you’re ever feeling down, swipe on some red lipstick — it’s an instant pick-me-up that’ll make you feel like a movie star.
Magic Honey Remedies
Honey isn’t just a delicious treat for your tea; it’s also one of grandma’s favorite natural remedies. From soothing a sore throat to healing small cuts and burns, honey has been a go-to solution for thousands of years. Loaded with antioxidants and antibacterial properties, it helps the skin heal and prevents infection.
This little jar of golden goodness has been used since ancient times, and grandmas today still swear by it. So the next time you’re dealing with a pesky skin issue, consider reaching for honey instead of your medicine cabinet — grandma’s advice is often spot-on!
Put on Your Best
In a time when climbing the corporate ladder was nearly impossible for women, grandmas knew that dressing the part could be the key to unlocking opportunities. Lynette Snyder, owner of Wax Pot Studio, shares her grandma’s wisdom: always present yourself in a way that shows you belong, whether you're attending an important job interview or a special event.
Her grandmother firmly believed that while you may not always be able to control the outcome, you can control how you show up. A well-tailored suit, a polished dress, or even a sharp accessory could make all the difference. It’s not just about the clothes, it’s about showing that you’re ready for anything life throws your way.
Amazing Scent
Perfume is more than just a luxury—it’s a personal signature that stays with those who know you best. Grandmas will tell you that having a signature scent is about more than smelling good; it’s about creating memories. Imagine walking into a room and having people recognize your scent before they even see you. That’s the kind of impression a well-chosen fragrance can leave. According to celebrity stylist Charles Baker Strahan, his grandmother’s scent—Herbal Essences shampoo—still brings back comforting memories of her.
It’s a sensory bond that lives on long after she’s gone. Finding your unique scent, whether it’s floral, musky, or citrusy, can connect your loved ones to you in a way few other things can. So take your time, test out a few, and pick something that feels authentically you.
Ladies in Jeans
While jeans have gone through every trend imaginable—skinny, flare, boyfriend, ripped, you name it—grandmas have always stuck to one essential truth: you need that one perfect pair. The pair that fits just right, feels comfortable all day, and can be dressed up or down. No squeezing, no pinching, no fuss.
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Grandmas know that life’s too short to spend it in uncomfortable clothes, and jeans should always feel good on your skin. Whether you’re lounging at home or heading out for the day, that go-to pair should always be your most reliable fashion friend. So next time you’re digging through your closet full of trendy options, maybe take a cue from grandma and stick with the pair that makes you feel your best.
Using Vinegar in… Your Hair!
Colored hair can be fabulous but the upkeep? That’s another story. Instead of expensive treatments, grandmas have been using simple kitchen hacks to maintain their dyed locks for generations. One such hack, passed down to Clairol’s color director James Corbett from his grandma, is to rinse colored hair with a mixture of apple cider vinegar and distilled water.
Not only does this help lock in color and make hair shinier but it also tames frizz. Forget the fancy products; this natural remedy has been doing wonders for generations. It’s all about keeping things simple, affordable, and effective—a philosophy that grandmas live by. So next time you’re fresh out of the salon, grab a bottle of vinegar and thank your grandma for her beauty smarts.
Useful Vaseline
If grandmas had to pick a single beauty product to swear by, chances are it would be Vaseline. This unassuming little tub is a multi-tasking miracle, and it’s been a staple in households for decades. Dry skin? Lather on some Vaseline. Chapped lips? Done. Cracked heels? Smoothed in minutes. And the best part? Vaseline doubles as a makeup remover!
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Its petroleum base makes it ideal for wiping off even the most stubborn mascara or lipstick without irritating your skin. Grandmas have been using this trick for years because it’s gentle, affordable, and effective. So the next time you’re packing your beauty kit, don’t forget this versatile gem—it might just be the most essential product you own.
Importance of Moisturizing
If there’s one beauty rule that grandmas never break, it’s moisturizing. They know the importance of keeping your skin hydrated from a young age, and they’ll tell you that it’s the easiest way to maintain a youthful glow. With all the serums, oils, and fancy creams on the market today, it’s easy to forget that a simple, effective moisturizer can do wonders. Grandmas advise looking for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides to lock in moisture.
Not only does it keep your skin soft but it also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Grandmas are living proof that a good moisturizer is the cornerstone of any skincare routine. Whether you’re dealing with dry patches or just trying to stay ahead of the aging game, hydration is key.
Something About Perfumes
Storing perfume in the fridge might sound like an odd idea but it’s a grandma-approved hack that’s starting to make a comeback. Perfume is made of delicate compounds that can break down over time when exposed to heat and light, leading to a less potent fragrance. By keeping your perfumes in the fridge, you slow down that process, helping your favorite scents last longer.
And as a bonus, spritzing a cool perfume on a hot day feels incredibly refreshing. Grandmas figured out long ago that this trick keeps their perfumes fresh and powerful, ensuring they always smell as good as the day they bought them.
So Bright!
Neutral colors may be having their moment in fashion right now but grandmas have always been about bright, vibrant hues. For them, wearing color isn’t just about standing out—it’s about expressing the joy and energy they feel inside. You can see it in their wardrobes, full of bold reds, blues, greens, and yellows. Their philosophy is simple: wearing bright colors makes you feel bright and cheerful.
Why not add a pop of color to your everyday outfits and see if it doesn’t boost your mood? Grandmas know that fashion should be fun, not just functional, and that a bright outfit can be the ultimate mood-lifter.
Special Makeup Remover
Removing makeup at the end of the day can feel like a chore, especially when waterproof mascara or heavy foundation seems impossible to budge. But grandmas have a trick for that too: cold cream. This old-school beauty product has been around for generations, and for good reason—it works.
Cold cream not only removes makeup with ease but it also moisturizes your skin in the process, leaving it soft and smooth. So if you’re tired of harsh cleansers that dry out your skin, maybe it’s time to go back to basics and give cold cream a try.
Plucking Is Not a Good Idea
Tweezing stray hairs may seem like a quick fix but grandmas are here to warn you: stop plucking! Not only can it lead to irritated skin and ingrown hairs but repeated plucking can also cause hair to grow back thicker and darker.
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Instead, grandmas recommend threading or waxing for longer-lasting and smoother results. These methods are much kinder to your skin and help prevent the painful bumps and irritation that often come with tweezing. Trust grandma on this one—your skin will thank you later.
Retro Curls, No Heat Required
Curly hair is making a major comeback, with everyone reaching for curling irons or straighteners. But back in the day, grandmas relied on something a little more retro—velcro rollers.
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These heat-free curlers were a go-to for creating bouncy waves, and the best part? No damage from heat! With heatless curls trending again, why not give this old-school trick a shot? Your hair will thank you later.
Oil Treatments Your Hair Will Thank You For
Grandmas were the original DIY queens, especially when it came to hair care. Forget expensive salon treatments—many grandmas used homemade hot oil treatments to keep their locks shiny and soft.
Their secret? A blend of amla oil, coconut oil, and castor oil, warmed slightly before massaging it into the scalp. Let it sit for 30 minutes, and voilà—hair that looks like it just stepped out of a salon.
Ditch the Pajamas, Embrace the Day
Working from home might make you want to live in pajamas but grandmas have a different approach: dress up every day. Even if you’re just lounging on the couch, putting on a nice outfit sets a productive tone for the day.
Plus, it just feels good to be put together. So next time you’re tempted by sweats, think of grandma and slip into something that makes you feel your best.
Master the Lash Game with This Simple Trick
False lashes can be tricky but grandmas have a clever hack to make them a breeze.
Instead of struggling to fit the lashes to your eye shape, wrap them around the handle of a makeup brush. Press them against your eyelid for a few seconds to give them the perfect curve. It’s a foolproof way to get a seamless, natural look every time.
The Secret to Ageless Skin
Clay masks are a timeless beauty must-have, and grandmas have known this forever.
These masks tighten skin, reduce shine, and detoxify pores, helping keep breakouts at bay. Grandmas have been using them for decades to maintain a youthful glow, proving that sometimes, old-school beauty really is the best.
One Lipstick, Three Beauty Hacks
Why juggle a million makeup products when one can do it all? Grandmas mastered the art of the multitasking lipstick, using it not only on their lips but also on their cheeks and even eyelids for a monochromatic look.
It’s a quick, easy beauty hack that’s both time-saving and budget-friendly. One tube, endless possibilities.
More Than Just SPF
Grandmas were ahead of the game when it came to sun protection. They swore by sunscreen, hats, long sleeves, and even parasols to shield their skin from harmful UV rays.
Stefanie Parks, founder of DermWarehouse, says her grandma’s dedication to sun protection is why no one could ever guess her age. If you want youthful skin, it's time to take a page out of grandma’s book.
Powder-Free Perfection
Powdered products may seem like a good idea but grandmas caution against them, especially as we age. Powder can dry out the skin and highlight wrinkles.
Instead, grandmas stick to minimal makeup, favoring a bit of primer and liquid foundation. Keep it simple, and let your natural glow shine through.
Protect Your Eyes in Style
Sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory—they’re a necessity. Grandmas know this well, as they’ve always rocked chic sunnies not just for style but for protection.
A good pair of sunglasses helps shield your eyes and skin from harmful UV rays, and when paired with a big sun hat or parasol, you’re ready to conquer the sun in style.
Perfect Nails with Cuticle Care
Healthy nails start with well-maintained cuticles. Instead of cutting them (which can lead to infections), grandmas recommend soaking your fingers in warm water and gently pushing back your cuticles.
Follow up with a nourishing cuticle oil to keep them hydrated, ensuring your nails grow strong and look flawless.
How Grandma's Timeless Style Still Blooms
Floral patterns — they've been around forever, and grandmas have known their power long before we started dabbling in trends. While a lot of us might be stuck in neutral tones and basics, florals bring that burst of life we desperately need. No matter the season, they’re a staple in grandma’s wardrobe, especially when the flowers outside start to bloom in spring and summer. But here’s the kicker — grandmas rock florals all year round, and it’s always a win.
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If you’re diving into the floral game, keep one thing in mind: balance. You don’t want to look like a walking garden. Pair a floral top with simple jeans or a neutral skirt to keep the look polished. Statement florals should be just that — a statement!
Accessories Are the Secret Weapon
Ever noticed how grandmas always seem to have their outfits together? Nine times out of ten, it’s the accessories that pull it all together. Even the simplest of outfits can be transformed with a bold necklace or a stack of bangles. Accessories are like the magic ingredient to make a basic look stand out.
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But remember, don’t overdo it. Too many accessories can quickly go from chic to chaotic. The key here is balance — one or two statement pieces are more than enough to elevate your look without overshadowing it.
Time to Be Bold
Let’s be real — a lot of us play it safe with our wardrobe choices. Whether it’s out of laziness or fear, we often stick to the basics. But if we take a page from grandma’s book, it’s time to embrace bold patterns and colors. Grandmas know that fashion should be fun, and part of that fun is stepping out of your comfort zone. Try mixing bright shades, playful patterns, or both! Don’t let fear hold you back — if grandma can rock a daring outfit, so can you.
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As you age, you start caring less about what others think. That’s the ultimate freedom, and it shows in grandma’s wardrobe. Why not take a leap and make a statement with your next outfit?
Sleeping on Your Back Is the Key
Your grandma has probably told you this a thousand times: sleep on your back! It’s not just for good posture, though. Sleeping on your face causes unnecessary wrinkles and can lead to acne from pressing your skin into your pillow all night.
If back-sleeping feels impossible, invest in a silk or satin pillowcase to minimize friction. These fabrics are kinder to your skin and hair, so even if you roll over in your sleep, you’re protected.
Belts Are Back (And Better Than Ever)
For a while, belts seemed to vanish from the fashion scene. But grandmas have always known their value, not just as a functional item but as a stylish accessory. Whether cinching a dress or adding a pop of detail to a coat, a belt can change your whole look.
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If you’re ready to bring belts back into your wardrobe, now’s the time to raid grandma’s closet. Chances are she has a killer collection of belts just waiting for a revival.