If you feel tired or weak and no good night’s sleep can cure it, that bone-deep weariness might be from a vitamin B-12 nutrient deficiency.

New breakthrough studies suggest that vitamin B-12 is not only important for supporting a healthy brain, but can be critical for supporting and maintaining healthy muscles, especially as people age.

In a 2026 study published in the journal of Nutrition, researchers at Cornell University and the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that low vitamin B-12 levels could stop mitochondria from functioning properly for skeletal muscle cells.

Mitochondria are cellular structures that turn what you eat and the oxygen you breathe into energy that can get you out of a chair and lift heavy packages.

And in this study, researchers created a mild B-12 deficiency measured by the functional biomarkers in mice; this deficiency led to notably impaired skeletal muscular function and energy production.

The mice “had physically smaller muscles,” Martha Field, an author of the study and an associate professor in the division of nutritional sciences at Cornell University, told HuffPost. “We see impacts on muscle mitochondrial function with what I think is a mild deficiency.”

“It needs a human trial, it’s preclinical, but it sets the stage for an impact of B-12 status on muscle function,” Field said.

Losing muscular strength and mass, or sarcopenia, is a common frustration with aging ― but perhaps vitamin B-12 can help slow this down. Field’s collaborator, Anna Thalacker-Mercer of University of Alabama at Birmingham, did a similar study on aging mice that received a vitamin B-12 supplementation for 12 weeks, and found that B-12 supplementation improved mitochondrial biology.

“We think that the B-12 supplementation was helping to maintain muscle mass in the older mice,” Thalacker-Mercer told HuffPost.

In this way, B-12 supplementation can improve mitochondrial health and help combat weakened muscular function.

“It’s not the holy grail for muscle aging or sarcopenia, but it could really help at least some people to attenuate the loss,” Thalacker-Mercer suggested.

Vitamin B-12 is a nutrient your body cannot make on its own. It is found primarily in animals, so vegans and vegetarians are prone to being deficient in B-12. But just eating more eggs and steaks won’t automatically cure a B-12 deficiency.

Exact numbers vary, but one estimate found that 1 in 8 adults over 50 reported low B-12 status.

“Even if our diet stays the same throughout our entire life, our ability to absorb these things through the intestines and the [gastrointestinal tract], it changes” as we age, Thalacker-Mercer said.

A sedentary lifestyle and being less physically active already impact how muscles age, but perhaps B-12 deficiency is another important driver people should not ignore, these studies suggest. Field said B-12 deficiencies are not mimicking the signs of aging, but could be “exacerbating” impaired muscle function.

For an older adult, a vitamin B-12 deficiency might appear as no longer being able to walk through the entire grocery store without feeling fatigue, Thalacker-Mercer said as an example. If your energy levels keep dropping, “that could be due to mitochondrial dysfunction and B-12,” Thalacker-Mercer said.

Field and Thalacker-Mercer’s studies were done on mice, not humans, but there have been other observational studies done on humans that show a link between improving B-12 levels and strengthening muscle mass and function. One small 2024 study done on vitamin B-12 deficient elderly people found that their muscle strength improved after three-month regimen of oral B-12 supplements.

If you suspect you are low on B-12, it’s best to seek professional medical help, so your physician can assess if you are deficient in this nutrient and determine the best supplemental dosage. You don’t want to take too much B-12 without medical guidance –– one 2020 study in JAMA Network Open suggests that very high concentrations of vitamin B-12 were linked to early deaths.

“I always tell people the best thing you can do is know your status,” Field said. “Talk to your doctor, have your [B-12] status measured, and then make an informed decision whether a supplement would be appropriate.”

“At the very least, have your doctor check your B-12 levels, because a lot of doctors don’t, and it’s an easy test to run,” Thalacker-Mercer said.

What’s better than a long-lasting eyeshadow stick that glides over lines and wrinkles without creasing? How about a long-lasting eyeshadow stick on sale? This slender stick from Julep delivers an easy-to-apply, cream-to-powder, waterproof eyeshadow LOVED by reviewers with mature skin for its seamless application, smoothness and staying power. Right now, you can snag it in dozens of shades, including mattes, shimmers, neutrals and neons, for 20% off, or just $16. This is the lowest price it’s been in weeks, so we recommend snatching one (or a few) fast!

The silky, buildable formula has a silicone base infused with Vitamin C and Vitamin E for extra nourishment around your eyes. It goes on creamy, gliding over lines and wrinkles “nicely without tugging,” then dries into a “powder finish that stays in place,” with superior color payoff. “It goes on easily, doesn’t get in creases and stays all day,” one reviewer writes.

Whether you use it as an eyeshadow, eyeliner, under-eye concealer or even a highlighter or contour stick — simply swipe it over your face, no brushes needed. (Though you do get a built-in smudging tip on the bottom, for easy blending on the go.)

Don’t be fooled by how light it feels — this stuff is waterproof, smudge-resistant and crease-proof after it dries down. “I work 10 hour days and sweat a lot…this eyeshadow stick will not budge,” shopper Catherine wrote. “Not even from the waterline.” “It is soft enough not to drag during application but once it’s on my lid it doesn’t smear,” another said. Yet, reviewers agree that when it’s time to take it off, the product comes off easily with a wipe or remover.

Reviewers call it “an imperfection eraser” for wrinkles and veins, offering even, full coverage that’s still “subtle enough for my 80-year-old eyelids!”

While these sticks are adored by users of all ages, they’ve become a fan favorite among users with mature skin. The cream-to-powder formula has been deemed “fabulous for aging eyelids” for how it slides and glides “without skipping on crepey eyelids” or bleeding into lines.

“As a mature woman, I appreciate that the product does not settle in wrinkles but glides over making a smooth looking lid,” one shopper said. “This shadow goes on smoothly and doesn’t crinkle into the wrinkles,” a 73-year-old reviewer added.

Others celebrate how full coverage the formula is, without overwhelming you with pigment. “I have a lot of purple discoloration and veins on my upper lids. I use the color putty and it actually completely covers them,” Jane wrote, calling it “a winner” product that’s worth the buy.

“Brightens and adds color and interest to my eyes without being garish or overbearing,” another said, calling it a “lovely subtle color.” It “accentuates eyes even though I wear glasses.”

Reviewers love this dreamy and creamy eyeshadow stick from Julep for gliding over their lids with ease. Read more 5-star reviews and grab one for yourself for 20% off.

“I am impressed with the Julep Eyeshadow Cream to Powder Waterproof Shadow sticks. I have tried other brands and they do not glide on as smoothly or have the rich color of the Julep brand. As a mature woman, I appreciate that the product does not settle in wrinkles but glides over making a smooth looking lid. I also find them so easy to travel with and they don’t take up much space in my make up bag, no brush or applicator needed! There are so many great colors to choose from and they are easy to remove at the end of the day with a makeup cleansing wipe.” — MD Ochoa

“This is a great product, particularly for more mature women who may worry about creasing. I used to use a very expensive cream mineral shadow but the company does not make it anymore. This is just as good at a fraction of the cost. It has full coverage and good pigment. Highly recommend.” — Karena

“If I could meet with the creator of sliced bread and the creator of Julep Eyeshadow 101 Crème-to-Powder Waterproof Eyeshadow Sticks, I would have to break the news that the Eyeshadow Sticks by Julep are my favorite invention of all time! I’ve always preferred creme eyeshadow to powder, but it tended to crease and fade after a few hours. Then I tried Julep, and it goes on as a creme but dries as a powder and stays fresh looking all day long. I was skeptical that it wouldn’t work for me because my skin and I are at a more ‘mature’ age, but it has never creased, faded or disappeared and the products are true to the colors that are advertised. Not sure I will ever go over to the ‘shimmer’ sticks since I am a matte gal, but I can say for certain that this product is made for all ages and all skin types, and it will take another awesome invention to get me to leave Julep…” — KMW

“I have numerous colors of Julep Cream-to-Powder shadow. I’m 73 years old so my eyelids have some wrinkles. This shadow goes on smoothly and doesn’t crinkle into the wrinkles. It’s stays on most of the day. For the price this is a super product.” — Amazon customer

“This goes on so smoothly and stays where I want it. The color is pretty and flattering. I am almost 70 and have hooded eyelids and this camouflages the eyelids and gives me confidence to be seen.” — Garrison

Or maybe you want eyeliners for mature skin, for under $10? Oh yeah, we got a list for that too. Check out these favs loved by reviewers with mature skin, courtesy of HuffPost Shopping.

The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)

Three years ago, I stood beside my husband Al’s bed and prepared to say goodbye.

After 25 years of marriage, cancer was taking him where I could not follow. Before he died, he looked at me and said something that shocked me at the time.

“Diane, you’ll need another man.”

I immediately dismissed the idea. I was 80 years old. I had already experienced a full life. What on earth would I need another man for? I certainly wasn’t looking for one.

Then life did what life often does. It ignored my plans.

Just a few months after Al died, friends introduced me to a man named Bob. I welcomed it because I was experiencing what I later discovered, after many late-night Google searches, was called “widow’s fire,” a fierce longing for intimacy and closeness after losing a spouse that, despite being surprisingly common, few people talk about.

Some people, including some of my children, thought it was too soon for me to begin dating. But grief doesn’t follow a timeline.

I wasn’t looking to replace Al. No one could. But for 25 years of marriage, I had been part of a pair. Suddenly, I was standing alone. The silence and loneliness were overwhelming.

What I realized was that I didn’t want to spend the rest of my life alone. I wanted companionship, laughter, conversation and, yes, physical attraction. And to my surprise, I found that in Bob, a kind, funny and handsome man who understood that loving him didn’t mean I loved Al any less.

Bob and I have been together for more than two years. We are deeply committed to one another, but marriage isn’t part of our equation. At our age, we’ve learned that relationships don’t need to look a certain way to be meaningful. What works for us is love, honesty and a healthy dose of practicality.

That practicality was put to the test recently when Bob and I embarked on a 22-day adventure through Norway, France and Spain. With me at 82 and Bob at 83, traveling halfway around the world requires a little more planning than it did a few decades ago.

Before we left, I sent an email introducing my daughter and son-in-law to Bob’s brother and sister. Not because we were planning a family reunion. Because we were 82 and 83 years old and about to cross an ocean together.

“Should we get lost along the way and need your assistance,” I wrote, “you now can connect with one another and try to retrieve, grieve or rejoice from our far distant travels.”

I also informed everyone that I had travel insurance in case my body needed to be shipped home and that Bob had thoughtfully prepared his own end-of-life arrangements. My children thought it was hilarious. Bob’s family may have thought I was crazy. They’re not entirely wrong.

But if you’re going to travel the world in your 80s, you learn to laugh about the realities that come with it. Like money. People don’t like talking about finances in matters of romance, but they should.

In our case, I happen to have a larger wallet than Bob. Before we left, we talked openly about expectations. I agreed to pay for the trip itself, including the airline tickets. Bob was perfectly willing to fly economy. I was perfectly unwilling to sit in first class without him. The good Lord knows I’m spoiled, and I wasn’t going to be up front sipping champagne while the man I loved was squeezed into seat 34B. Besides, I like him next to me.

We agreed that he would cover many of the extras along the way, including meals, excursions and spontaneous treats. There were no complicated contracts. Just two adults having an honest conversation.

Widowhood taught me many things. Like I wish more people understood that discussing money isn’t unromantic. Avoiding it is.

The trip itself became a lesson in something even bigger. Standing in Norway, surrounded by glaciers that looked as though they belonged on another planet, I found myself thinking about Al. He loved to travel.

The glacier train rides were breathtaking. The scenery was so beautiful it almost didn’t seem real. It was colder than a witch’s teat but magnificent. Al and I had never made it to Norway together, and I couldn’t stop thinking about how much he would have loved it.

Unexpectedly, I didn’t feel guilty. For a long time, widows are made to feel that happiness somehow betrays grief. It doesn’t. Missing Al and loving Bob can occupy the same space. Both things are true.

Bob understood that. He never tried to compete with my memories. He simply stood beside me while I carried them. That’s one of the many reasons I love him.

Norway also introduced me to two things I never expected: iced cider and brown cheese.

The cider was delicious.

The cheese was downright addictive.

I liked it so much that I packed half a pound of it in my suitcase and hauled it through France, Spain and all the way back home to Florida.

At 82 years old, apparently, I travel internationally with contraband cheese.

Then there was Bergen.

The minute we arrived, I announced to Bob, “I could live here.”

It had everything I love: beauty, charm, walkability and friendly people. We spent our days wandering old streets, taking in spectacular views and pretending, just for a moment, that we belonged there.

Next came France.

Of all the places we visited, Normandy affected me the most.

Standing among the endless rows of white crosses at the American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach, I felt humbled in a way that is difficult to describe.

The older I get, the more familiar loss becomes. Friends die. My spouse died. Parents die. Even pieces of ourselves disappear. The woman I was at 40 no longer exists. Neither does the woman I was before widowhood.

Yet there I was, halfway around the world, still creating memories. Still laughing. Still planning. Still living.

Spain brought its own lessons.

I use wheelchair assistance because of a painful foot. Bob uses a cane. Airport assistance services managed to leave us at the wrong gate on two separate occasions, causing us to miss our flights.

After missing our second flight, I told Bob I could have learned to become a professional tango dancer in less time than it took airport personnel to move my behind through that airport. For two days we were shuffled from gate to gate while trying not to lose our sense of humor. Thankfully, we succeeded.

By the time we reached Mallorca after nearly three weeks abroad, we realized something. We may have been tourists, but we didn’t particularly want to be around tourists anymore.

Maybe we were tired. Maybe we missed our own beds. Or maybe we had officially become old people. Either way, home was sounding awfully good.

Traveling at 82 also comes with one unexpected advantage: I no longer care about impressing anyone.

When I was younger, I packed as though every day required a completely different outfit, matching shoes, jewelry and accessories. These days, I pack for comfort, practicality and the occasional nice dinner. For 22 days abroad, Bob and I shared one checked suitcase, and we each carried a small bag. It wasn’t because we were trying to prove anything. It’s simply that we’ve learned what matters and what doesn’t.

I’ve discovered that one scarf, one pair of comfortable shoes and a little confidence can carry you remarkably far. That’s one of the gifts of aging. You spend less time worrying about how you look and more time enjoying where you are.

At this age, I’ve learned that nobody really cares what you’re wearing, whether your hair is perfect or if you’ve packed the right shoes. What people remember is whether you laughed, loved, showed up and enjoyed the journey.

And that’s true whether you’re standing on a glacier in Norway, wandering the streets of Barcelona or simply sitting beside a koi pond at home with someone you love.

The greatest surprise of the trip wasn’t Norway’s glaciers, Normandy’s history or Barcelona’s architecture. It was realizing how comfortable I have become with this unexpected chapter of my life.

If you had told me three years ago, while I was sitting beside Al’s hospital bed, that I’d be crossing Europe with another man, I would have told you that you were out of your mind.

If widowhood has taught me anything, it’s that we don’t honor those we’ve lost by stopping our lives. We honor them by continuing to live them.

When Al died, I thought my story was winding down. Instead, it simply changed genres.

These days, I’m perfectly content sitting beside that pond with Bob discussing books, sports, grandchildren, politics or whatever we’re streaming on Netflix. Twenty years ago, I would have called that boring. Now I call it happiness.

One of the most damaging myths about aging is that life becomes smaller. I’ve found the opposite. Life becomes more precious. At some point, every one of us realizes our time is finite. The horizon becomes visible. Oddly enough, that’s what makes each day matter more.

At 82, the future looks different than I imagined. It includes a new love. A few more aches and pains. Occasionally a wheelchair. And gratitude for every single day I still get to wake up and see what comes next.

Al knew all this before I did. He knew I would need companionship. He knew I would need laughter. He knew I would need someone to sit beside me on airplanes and hold my hand during life’s inevitable turbulence. Most of all, he knew I would need a future.

As it turns out, he knew me better than I knew myself.

Diane Heiler is the author of “A Widow’s Fire: An Intimate Memoir of Heartbreak, Survival and Moving On.” Widowed in 2023 after caring for her husband through his battle with cancer, she writes about grief, resilience and finding joy again after profound loss.

Do you have a compelling personal story you’d like to see published on HuffPost? Find out what we’re looking for here and send us a pitch at pitch@huffpost.com.

Last week, Urban Decay’s 24/7 Glide-On waterproof eyeliner pencil was a Prime Day smash with HuffPost readers. Made with Vitamin E and jojoba oil, it applies “smooth as butter,” even over mature and textured skin, before drying into a smudge-proof liner that will last all day. Reviewers in their 60s and 70s love the stick for being “very soft on old eyelids,” gliding over wrinkles without “overemphasizing” or bleeding into fine lines. While it’s typically a luxury product, it’s still on sale with its Prime Day 40% off discount, at Amazon and Ulta, making it closer to a drugstore buy than the luxury eyeliner it truly is.

Don’t be fooled by its straightforward packaging; this eyeliner pencil is versatile. You can find it in dozens of colors, from neutrals to neons, and apply it as a traditional eyeliner, a cream liner or even an eyeshadow. The huge color selection is ideal for creative looks and everyday glam alike, offering hues for all sorts of tones and tastes.

“I use the smoke gray because the black is too dark for my 65+ years,” shopper Sharon wrote. “Bourbon is a stunning deep brown with subtle warm undertones,” another said. “Softer and more versatile than black but still bold enough to define your eyes.” Many love the shade Rockstar, a dark matte purple, for adding “depth without looking harsh.”

The formula is designed to go on smoothly, giving you time to blend and adjust as needed. But, “once it sets, it stays put,” Cris writes, not fading or transferring through the day. “It truly glides on…no tugging, no skipping, no fighting with a dry pencil that gives up halfway through your lash line,” they added. “The texture feels more like a beautiful gel in pencil form, and the color payoff is rich and deep from the first swipe…If you’re tired of eyeliners that dry out, drag, or crumble, this one is such a relief to use.”

“Gorgeousss, slides perfectly and doesn’t smudge easily,” Maya wrote. “I have so many black eyeliners, and I’m really picky, this one is one of my favs.”

Another selling point for this 40% off stick — it’s a dream to use over wrinkles or texture. A 60-year-old reviewer calls it “the Goldilocks of eye pencils,” for how easily it applies to so many skin types.

“I’ve tried so many different eyeliners suggested for mature eyes & this one so far has been the best,” shopper Vickie said. “It goes on fairly smooth considering I’m 75 & the skin on my eyelids isn’t smooth.”

Others agree the product “goes smoothly over my wrinkle lines,” “lasts well without smearing,” and “was easy to put on under glasses.” “Pushing 60 and this works great on old tired skin,” Donna wrote. “This liner is so soft and smooth on my eyelids,” another 68-year-old reviewer said. “I wish that I had found this years ago! I love the color!!”

Reviewers love this hydrating eyeliner pencil for gliding on with ease and staying on all day. Read more 5-star Amazon reviews and grab one for its Prime Day price of 40% off.

“Best and most pigmented eyeliner ever! I absolutely L❤️VE the variety of colors and it goes on as smooth as butter. I’ve been a customer for years and I will continue to be a customer.” — MRJax1968

“I’ve used [the shade] Rockstar for years and turned other green eyed people on to it. It stays on, isn’t too harsh on my 60 year old eyelids or anyone else’s and is the Goldilocks of eye pencils. I know the color recommend chart doesn’t point green eyes people to it, but I promise it’s perfect ! Not weird, classy and easy to work with.” — Joni K.

“I’m a 68 year old woman. This liner is so soft and smooth on my eyelids! I wish that I had found this years ago! I love the color!!” — LuAnn Principe

“An Eyeliner That Acts Like a Gel, Not Chalk. This eyeliner is exactly what I’ve been missing. It truly glides on…no tugging, no skipping, no fighting with a dry pencil that gives up halfway through your lash line. The texture feels more like a beautiful gel in pencil form, and the color payoff is rich and deep from the first swipe. The shade Rockstar is a gorgeous dark purple that adds depth without looking harsh, and it applies smoothly and evenly every time. If you’re tired of eyeliners that dry out, drag, or crumble, this one is such a relief to use. Once it sets, it stays put. You have just enough time to smudge if you want a softer look, but after that it locks in and lasts all day without transferring or fading. It’s comfortable to wear and doesn’t feel dry on the lash line, which I really appreciate. It’s creamy, intensely pigmented, and easy to apply — a perfect option if you want long-wearing color without the chalky struggle.” — Cris Hidalgo

“I’ve tried so many different eyeliners suggested for mature eyes & this one so far has been the best. It goes on fairly smooth considering I’m 75 & the skin on my eyelids isn’t smooth. Overall I like it very much.

Update: After using it for this month, yes, I’m loving it still. Had a problem figuring out how to sharpen it but found the NYX sharpener works great. Much less expensive than the one from Urban Decay, which, by the way, isn’t available on Amazon. Wonder why not?” — Vickie

Or maybe you want eyeliners for mature skin for under $10? Yup, we have a list for that too. Check out these favs loved by reviewers with mature skin, courtesy of HuffPost Shopping.

The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)

Serious skin care doesn’t have to cost serious prices. Case in point: Rosen Apothecary’s anti-aging retinol body lotion designed to smooth and brighten skin — for under $20. This “Holy Grail of lotion” is currently 28% off, making it under $18, the lowest price it’s been since May. Reviewers love how soft and light the cream is, saying it glides on “like water,” absorbs quickly and offers a light mango scent that’s perfect for summer. Though, it’s mainly loved for how effective it is, with reviewers reporting softer, smoother, brighter skin just days after using it.

Made in the U.S.A. with retinol and caffeine, this nourishing cream will have you saying “Goodbye crepey skin” and, “Hello youthful softness!

Designed for use on your body, this powerful cream works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while keeping your skin supple and soft. The brand says the retinol boosts collagen production to keep your skin plump and smooth (a process dermatologists have confirmed in previous HuffPost reporting), while the caffeine brightens and tightens (another expert-confirmed process you can read previous HuffPost reporting about).

“This is the most amazing body lotion I’ve ever used,” shopper S. Melissa Reaves writes. “I lotion in the morning and before bed and I can see such a difference in my skin. I am 59 years old, but I feel like my skin looks 40. That’s a big deal. HIGHLY recommend.”

Reviewers say the cream has helped smooth crepey skin on their arms, “they look so much better using this,” one wrote, with others calling it the “perfect body lotion.” “I’ve been using this for 6 weeks,” one shopper said. “I’ve noticed less crepe in my legs, neck, arms and face.” Others say the cream has worked wonders on fine lines and wrinkles, even tone and texture and generally “makes my skin look younger and healthy.” “I have only used it three days and I have noticed a difference in my skin,” Ann-Marie wrote. “It made my skin soft already!”

“I live in South Georgia and it gets HOT! I needed a lotion that would not be greasy, be lightweight, absorb FAST and help with the look of aging,” shopper Jessica wrote. ”..It checks ALL the boxes! After putting this one I can put on bug spray and sunscreen without worrying that it’s all going to get gross.” (Editor’s note: experts have told us that retinol makes your skin more sensitive to sun, so using an SPF with this is a must.)

Shoppers appreciate how creamy and silky the lotion is, without feeling heavy or greasy, but still keeping their skin nourished. “I find that my arms look nicer when I use this product,” one wrote, “I like how my arms look hydrated instead of dry.”

Shopper Tara says the cream has a “velvety-smoothness” similar to hair conditioner, that’s not sticky on the skin. “This actually gets absorbed but also continues to work for so long,” they said, noting the cream “keeps my skin hydrated & [smelling] great all day.” “I love it. Great price for the size of the bottle. The smell is very light & “summer-ish”🙂🖤.”

Reviewers are swooning over this smoothing retinol body lotion. Read more 5-star reviews and grab some for under $20.

“Goodbye Crepey Skin―Hello Youthful Softness! This is the most amazing body lotion I’ve ever used. I even bought two more bottles to just have because I KNOW I will use them. I lotion in the morning and before bed and I can see such a difference in my skin. I am 59 years old, but I feel like my skin looks 40. That’s a big deal. HIGHLY recommend” — S. Melissa Reaves

“Holy grail of lotion. I live in South Georgia and it gets HOT! I needed a lotion that would not be greasy, be lightweight, absorb FAST and help with the look of aging. I don’t do a ton of reviews, usually just when something really catches my attention…I should probably change that lol but this lotion…it checks ALL the boxes! After putting this one I can put on bug spray and sunscreen without worrying that it’s all going to get gross. I am 35 years old and a woman at the store today thought I was 25! I know I don’t look old but this stuff took away what little lines I was getting and it’s only been a month. Just ordered my second bottle….oh and I use it on my face too and I have super sensitive skin. Everything makes me break out but this doesn’t!” — Jessica

“This lotion feels and smells ammazing. I use it on my hands and decolletage and it left my hands feeling so smooth and moisturized. I have used on my decolletage area as well and the texture feels better but no visible changes yet. I foresee this stuff only getting better for me. Highly recommend…did I mention how great it smells? 😀” — Terrell

“I’ve been using this for 6 weeks. I love that it is an all over body cream. I’ve noticed less crepe in my legs, neck, arms and face.” — Amazon customer

“This stuff works and fast. I noticed a difference in Just 2 days. I’ll keep using it. My skin is softer and I’ve seen dark patches of skin getting less noticeable. I’ll keep working on wrinkles, but it’s helped and I’ve used it for just a week.” — K M

As a dermatologist previously told HuffPost, “if you’re not using sunscreen, don’t spend your money on retinol.” To ensure your skin stays protected, check out these three <a href="https://www.huffpost.com/” target=”_blank” class=” js-entry-link cet-internal-link” data-vars-item-name=”dermatologist-recommended sunscreens” data-vars-item-type=”text” data-vars-unit-name=”6a43d7e0e4b0f259890fcd1f” data-vars-unit-type=”buzz_body” data-vars-target-content-id=”/%3Casset-code%20id=%226a43fdfce4b0f2598910096c%22%20type=%22collection%22%3E%3C/asset-code%3E” data-vars-target-content-type=”feed” data-vars-type=”web_internal_link” data-vars-subunit-name=”article_body” data-vars-subunit-type=”component” data-vars-position-in-subunit=”31″>dermatologist-recommended sunscreens, courtesy of HuffPost Shopping.

The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)

It’s not breaking news that exfoliating pads remove makeup and tone skin pretty well. However, we’ve spotted RoC’s Line Smoothing cleansing pads that do you one better: RoC made these babies to remove makeup and work to smooth fine lines — and shockingly, reviewers are reporting that they’re actually effective. People are literally canceling Botox appointments because these foam-infused pads are surprisingly doing quite enough. And the kicker is that they’re less than $12. An $11.97 alternative to a beauty procedure? Consider us attentive.

“I usually get Botox twice a year,” one shopper shared.

Let’s get this out of the way: Of course, the pads don’t perform an actual Botox treatment. Needles are sold separately and at a much higher price. However, reviewers say the changes they are seeing have been more than enough to pause office visits in favor of a simple tweak to their skincare routine.

“Normally I would feel the need to get botox again by this point but these really do smooth my fine lines,” they continued.

“I’m not exaggerating when I say they give you an instant facelift.”

Instant facelift is a tall order for cleansing pads, so we always raise our virtual eyebrows when anyone shares that about a skin care product — except this isn’t the only shopper who decided against a procedure after trying these specific pads.👀

No joke, reviewers call the foamy discs a “much less expensive and invasive option” than Botox, while providing the Botox-like smoothing.

“I am 53 and my concerns were forehead furrows, lip lines, marionette lines and some jowls starting to sag. I was considering looking into mini lift or maybe fillers like Botox,” another reviewer shared, noting they were concerned the pads would be “strong enough” as they don’t contain retinol.

“The results from using this product have been significant,” they wrote. “The most significant improvement is diminished appearance of lip lines…Brow furrows appear far less defined-still there but not as deep. I really hadn’t expected a change in the marionette lines or jowl thing-but they too are noticeably diminished!”

“I have found the glabellar lines between my eyebrows have become way less noticeable,” another said. “I was considering botox to help with those so I am quite happy to have found a much less expensive and invasive option. I have also noticed a considerable amount of brightening of my skin in general.”

We’ve confirmed with experts just how crucial yet often forgotten the exfoliation step is to a mature skin care routine. The process helps remove dead skin to “reveal brighter and more rejuvenated skin,” and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, aesthetician Sean Lundy previously told HuffPost.

With the RoC pads, you can tackle the cleansing and exfoliation in one session. The smooth side is great for gentle cleaning, while the textured side offers physical exfoliation as you swipe. Additionally, the foam in the pads boasts ultra-hydrating ingredients like glycerin and butylene glycol to plump the skin, while the glycine soja (soybean) protein works as an antioxidant and skin-conditioner.

People are sharing that their pores look smaller, makeup sits nicer and lifelong bumpy, oily skin is finally starting to look smooth and matte. Several shoppers also note that their skin has an “undeniable new glow.” That, good people, is evidence of a product that multi-tasks hard.

The brand says they’re gentle enough to be used twice daily, as you prep your face for the day and as you wind down for sleep. You get 28 pads in a pack, though many cut them in half to double the amount. Reviewers say the pads rival luxury skincare in experience and effect, at an unbeatable price.

Reviewers love these handy pads for making smoothing skin care quick and easy. Read more 5-star reviews and grab a set for yourself for under $12.

“I bought these on a whim in December when I ran out of my normal cleanser not expecting much. After 3 months I can safely say I’m amazed. This is one of my favorite skincare products and I’ve used everywhere from high end, prescription and drugstore. I’m 37 and have the start of wrinkles on my forehead. I usually get botox twice a year, normally I would feel the need to get botox again by this point but these really do smooth my fine lines. I’m not exaggerating when I say they give you an instant facelift. After 3 months I have less discoloration and my face feels fresh. I 100% recommend these. I can’t believe how affordable they are!” — BBRebBe

“These are amazing. I was contemplating botox due to lines in my forehead. I decided to try these disks and my skin was brighter and softer after using the first time. It had the kind of glow like I had been to the spa. I have been using almost daily for about 1 week and the difference is visible to me. The lines in my forehead have not vanished (it isnt magic) but they have dramatically diminished. I will continue to use all over my face. I hate I did not take before and after pictures.” — Monica

“Love, love this product. I’ve been using RoC products for 12 years, since I first read they were best all around for fighting wrinkles without draining your wallet. These remove makeup so fast and leave my face feeling incredibly refreshed. I find I sleep better too when I use these. I cut them in half to make them go further.” — Lelsie Stuart

“I will add my voice to all the happy reviewers of this product. I have been very pleased with how it has worked on my skin. I don’t have many wrinkles to contend with but I have found the glabellar lines between my eyebrows have become way less noticeable. I was considering botox to help with those so I am quite happy to have found a much less expensive and invasive option. I have also noticed a considerable amount of brightening of my skin in general.

Looking for more skin care for mature skin that reviewers say actually makes a difference? Check out this list below, courtesy of HuffPost Shopping.

The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)

There’s plenty of one-size-fits-all health advice out there. But for people of a certain age, the diet and exercise recommendations aimed at younger folks just aren’t as helpful as they used to be. Our bodies have changed, and we don’t need to start hardcore exercise routines or embark on crazy fad diets that skip entire food groups.

These days, there’s too much health information coming at us from all sides, much of it from questionable sources. That can be overwhelming at any age. We asked a group of cardiologists, nutritionists and other health professionals for one simple piece of advice they would give to all their senior patients.

When it comes to a healthy senior lifestyle, we can all benefit from some advice from a nutritionist who treats senior patients regularly. Four of them shared their top tips, and each one is a powerful tool for wellness.

As we age, it’s especially important to make sure we are getting plenty of fiber. Registered dietician nutritionist Kathleen Garcia-Benson told us: “Fiber is essential for a healthy digestive system, regular bowel movements, and is associated with a lower risk of colon cancer. Easy ways to boost fiber include snacking on berries, adding ground flaxseeds or chia seeds to oatmeal, or using a fiber supplement. Just be sure to drink plenty of water when increasing fiber!”

Nutritionists also urge seniors to make sure they are getting enough protein. According to registered dietician Courtney Pelitera, one of the biggest effects of aging seen across the board is something called sarcopenia, or the breakdown of muscle mass, strength and function.

“A great way to preserve as much muscle as possible (besides regular exercise) is to make sure the diet is adequate in protein,” Pelitera said. “I like to encourage at least 20g of protein or more per meal with older adults.”

Another common problem for seniors is deficiency of vitamin D, which plays a role in muscle movement and immune function, and is needed to keep bones healthy.

“The body becomes less efficient at converting sunlight into Vitamin D as we age, and older adults are at increased risk for having low levels,” said RD Annette Snyder. “Food sources of vitamin D include fatty fish (salmon, tuna, trout, mackerel), egg yolks, fish liver oil, mushrooms, and fortified dairy products.”

Something as basic as hydration can also become a problem for seniors. RDN Colette Micko says this is because the natural mechanisms that increase the sensation for thirst are diminished as you age.

“This means you cannot rely on feeling thirsty to signal that your body needs water,” she said. “Staying adequately hydrated is important for nearly every cell in your body to function, and can help with energy levels, digestion, body temperature regulation and lubrication of joints.”

Micko recommends increasing your water intake to a minimum of 48 ounces per day by drinking on a schedule, always keeping fluids nearby and focusing on hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables. This can all help ensure you are meeting your body’s minimum requirements.

The best thing that older adults can do to protect their heart health is to eat whole, plant-based foods ― and Dr. Katie Golden, a board-certified emergency medicine physician, recommends the Mediterranean diet, to be consumed joyfully with friends and family.

“It’s all about eating fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats,” Golden said. “Also, enjoy yourself and the company of those around you while doing it, because mental health and well-being is an important part of physical health.”

And all the cardiologists we spoke to agreed on one thing ― the importance of exercise. Just do whatever you can do. According to Dr. Eldad Einav, a cardiologist, obesity specialist and clinical assistant professor at SUNY Upstate Medical University, study after study shows that exercise helps with blood pressure regulation, cholesterol management, blood sugar regulation, weight maintenance, inflammation, stress, mortality, energy, stamina, sleep, cognitive ability, joint health, balance, mobility, immune system function and social interaction.

It doesn’t take hours at the gym or training for an Ironman Triathlon to maintain your health. Dr. Dany Sayad, medical director for the Tampa General Hospital Heart & Vascular Institute’s General Cardiology Center of Excellence, told us: “If I could get my senior patients to do one thing, it would be to exercise a minimum of 150 minutes per week.”

“The exercise should be tailored to the patient’s physical abilities,” Sayad said. “Chair yoga, pilates, and most importantly walking would improve not only the cardiovascular system but also lower the risk of fall, the anxiety and ameliorate the sense of well-being.”

If your doctor hasn’t already told you, cardiologists have a short list of habits you need to quit. According to Dr. Philip Nimoityn, a clinical cardiologist at Cardiology Consultants of Philadelphia at Jefferson, “seniors interested in maintaining cardiovascular health should pursue a heart-healthy lifestyle including avoidance of obesity, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.”

“A well-balanced diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, is beneficial in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease,” Nimoityn said. He also recommends asking for a few specific tests to make sure your heart is in tip-top shape.

“Better screening for cardiovascular disease can be achieved by supplementing standard lipid screening with additional tests including Apo-B, lipoprotein(a) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, which identifies vascular inflammation that can now be treated to reduce future risk,” Nimoityn said. “A CT coronary artery calcium score is also very useful in stratifying an individual’s cardiovascular risk.”

The original version of this story was published on HuffPost at an earlier date.

Prices change quickly on Prime Day, so keep checking back to see the latest updates. Make sure to sign up for an Amazon Prime account to get the deals.

Some products go on sale so rarely that it feels like breaking news when the price tag drops. That’s certainly the case for Revision Skincare’s YouthFull Lip Replenisher, a luxury, peptide-infused lip balm that I credit for transforming my aging lips. It’s like no other product out there for smoothing and replenishing my smile. After months of stubbornly sitting at full price, it’s on rare sale for Amazon Prime Day for 30% off, the lowest price it’s been since Black Friday. Trust, this balm is worth every penny at full price, so this deal is a steal. But you have to move fast because Prime Day ends tonight, and the deals are going with it.

My lips have gotten just as much sun damage as the rest of my face over the last nearly five decades, and it was starting to show. I decided to try the YouthFull Lip Replenisher in a mission to combat signs of aging on my lips. I’m not overly bothered by wrinkles, but I do want to take care of my skin. Yet, I can’t slap retinol cream on my lips like I can on my crow’s feet. Lip skin is wildly delicate.

I figured one of the most promising lip-safe active ingredients would be peptides, given that certain peptides can have skin-restoring abilities and help address things like loss of firmness, dullness and fine lines and others are solid antioxidants. Although they don’t produce quick miracles — no skin care does — peptides can be effective, and some are gentle enough to be included in lip products. I tried a few of them, including Hailey Bieber’s peptide lip gloss (what can I say? she has good skin!), but nothing was really doing it for me.

More, the balm offers vitamins E and C and green tea, which have been studied to work well in tandem with peptides. Plus, the balm offers very solid moisturizers like shea butter.

I put it on overnight, and let me tell you, I could actually tell a difference the very next morning. No wonder reviewers call it “the holy grail of anti aging lip products!”

I will note that when I first put this on, I immediately knew it wasn’t going to be a product I’d wear much during the day, despite Revisions’s guidance of applying it three times daily. It’s pretty thick and sticky (if you are constantly pulling your hair out of your lip gloss, you know the struggle).

But as one reviewer noted, this is actually the product’s superpower, because it absolutely does not budge, even if you wear it overnight. “Although some reviews complain about the tackiness of the balm, that’s actually what is so great about this product!” wrote a Dermstore customer named Lizzie. “It sticks to lips better than any other balm I’ve tried.”

I can attest to this. Each morning when I wake up, it’s still there as if I just applied it. I sleep on my side, but it doesn’t melt off or get on my pillow. The fact that it clings so hard and lasts so long gives me some assurance that all those little peptides really are hard at work while I sleep, safely ensconced on my lips in a very stay-put formula. I kept going with overnight use, and within days felt like this it was making a real difference. My lips hadn’t been in terrible shape, but they definitely seemed smoother than they’d been in years. They didn’t look wrinkly. And they certainly felt supremely healthy.

Although some reviewers do enjoy it wearing this formula as a daytime gloss, many others are using it overnight only, too, and say it makes their lipstick easier to apply the next day.

And given how little of it I have to squeeze out to give my lips a solid coat, I feel like this one tube is going to last for an almost comically long time (a relief given that $40 is way more than I typically spend on a lip balm).

Some aren’t so concerned with fine lines, and simply use it for dry, cracked lips in winter or desert climates (and they say it’s hugely effective for that).

I can’t say enough good things about Revision’s lip treatment, a sentiment that seems to be shared by everyone who’s tried it. Read more 5-star reviews and grab one for yourself before the Prime Day price jumps back to normal.

“This deserves 10 stars. I was given this as a gift from a friend, and I loved it so much I bought the regular and the tinted. Worth every single penny! Yes, it is very sticky, but I honestly prefer when glosses/balms are sticky because I feel like that helps it last all day. Plus it makes my lips feel super moisturized after taking it off. Since it’s sticky, a little goes a long way, which is such a plus given this is a little pricey!” — Marie

“After years of hearing people mention having a ‘holy grail’ product, I finally have my own. This stuff is incredible! I originally got it after having a lip moisturizing treatment done, because it was recommended as a great post-treatment maintainer, but it works fantastically all the time. I have always had great lips, but they’ve been thinning due to age. This makes them look insanely plump, incredibly moisturized, and very ‘I used a filter but in real life.’ One caveat: it is crazy sticky. That’s what keeps it on as a great all-night moisturizer, and doesn’t require constant touch-ups on a night out. But it’s definitely a hair-grabber in a windstorm. Absolutely worth it to me to just wait and put it on when I’m inside!” — Golden golden

“It actually works! My Dermatologist recommended this to me. Results are noticeable some in the beginning but with daily use (throughout the day) my lips are fuller, less wrinkles! (age 46)” — Amy Gragg

“I’ve tried so many lip masks. Laneige, Tatcha, First Aid Beauty (was amazing and now discontinued), Bite, Fresh, Ole Henricksen, Kiehl’s (tastes and smells fantastic, lasts on lips for 4 minutes)…Tarte, Buxom, Dior, was a Burt’s Bees fan for a decade. BB is nice and keeps the moisture in, but no active ingredients to nourish. Revision is serious business… I travel for work, am on planes and changing climates weekly. My lips are soft and nourished. I’m over 50, and no lip lines. **Can’t recommend strongly enough. 10/10**” — Kimberly S

The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)

Prices change quickly on Prime Day, so keep checking back to see the latest updates. Make sure to sign up for an Amazon Prime account to get the deals.

In previous HuffPost coverage, experts have shared that our body odor can actually change with aging, thanks to our skin naturally producing different compounds over time. The smell is distinct from regular BO, and while it isn’t a poor hygiene indicator, it generally doesn’t come off with just ordinary soap and water. It may, however, be addressed with this special bar of Japanese persimmon soap from the brand Mirai Clinical. It was runaway hit with HuffPost readers from the first time we covered it. For Amazon Prime Day, you can nab it for a whopping 38% off (aka, the lowest price we’ve seen it at, ever).

In previous reporting, this circular amber bar, currently on sale for Prime Day, was suggested as a possible solution to “old people smell” — a biological phenomenon caused by the compound 2-nonenal.

Typically beginning after age 40 and caused by antioxidant defenses declining in the skin, nonenal odors can have a mild to moderate organic or musty smell that varies from person to person, we’re told by dermatologists. And you might not even be able to notice it on yourself due to something called olfactory adaptation, where you become accustomed to the scent since its development is so gradual. It’s also not necessarily unpleasant to all humans, since smell is so subjective. But, if it is a concern for you, this is a possible solution.

“Persimmon soap, which contains tannins, has a plausible mechanism and a long history of use, though large randomized trials are lacking,” dermatologist Dr. Naana Boakye, founder of Bergen Dermatology, previously suggested.

And while Boakye did not mention a specific brand, the Mirai bar soap appears to be the most popular and widely reviewed option. (The founder even appeared on “Shark Tank” last year.) This formula has a dense concentration of persimmon-derived tannins, along with green tea extract, an ingredient that’s rich in antioxidants for continual defense throughout the day.

One Amazon customer put it to the test behind their ears, another part of the body where this smell can commonly develop.

“The results were pretty remarkable,” they claimed in their review. “I washed behind my ears on day one and then didn’t do it again for three days, constantly smelling that area each day. The smell stayed gone for two days, and by about the third day, it was starting to become slightly noticeable. That made me a believer.”

Others claim the soap worked on perimenopausal-related odors and just body odors in general that had previously been resistant to other soap formulas.

Reviewers love Mirai Clinical’s persimmon soap for making them feel (and smell!) their best. Read more 5-star reviews and grab a bar on sale for Prime Day.

“Magical!! This stuff really works! No more perimenopause weird odor. I was going crazy! Bought a bunch more because it’s an essential now.” — An

“The perfect soap for seniors. This is a fantastic product. I had been changing soaps, shampoos, laundry soaps and sheets, and the unpleasant smell remained. Within days of using Mirai clinical persimmon soap I smell clean and fresh again. I also use the deodorant. I like the round shape of the bar and it makes a nice lather. I recommend this to everyone.” — Kindle customer

“Now get ready because I am going to get slightly gross for a minute. I rubbed my finger behind both my ears and smelled and yeah, it wasn’t great, even though I just washed that morning. So I gave the soap a shot and in particular focused on behind the ears. The result were pretty remarkable. I washed behind my ears on day one and then didn’t do it again for 3 days. Constantly smelling that area each day. The smell stayed gone for 2 days and by about the 3rd day it was starting to become slightly noticeable. That made me a believer. So I started using it in all the places the nonenal is at. I start by washing my entire body with regular soap and then at the end of my shower I use this soap in all the places they teach you that nonenal shows up. I have to say that I feel much more confident about how I smell after using it. No one wants to go through hormonal changes but we all have to. At least now we can be more comfortable in our skin while we go through it. I know it’s very expensive for a soap. But it is worth it. And if you only use it on the parts of the body that the nonenal smell comes from you won’t have to buy it again for a couple of months.” — L.B. (This review has been edited for length. Read the full review.)

“I’m glad I decided to try this soap despite the cost. It’s a large bar that hopefully will last for months and lathers very well with a pleasant clean smell. I noticed after using the bar the sour odor that I have been struggling with is absent. I hope this soap works as well for you as it has for me.” — Patricia Kroepel

The experts consulted for this story do not necessarily endorse the products ahead unless otherwise noted.

We have LOADS more Prime Day beauty deals where this came from! Browse this curated list below for more of the goods.

The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)

I am 44 years old and I might be the only woman I know who doesn’t mind getting older. In fact, I relish it.

Don’t get me wrong — I’m not fond of everything that comes with it. My hips hurt. My eyesight is getting worse. I’m forced to decide between a glass of wine or a sleepless night. Gray hair, not-so-fine lines and deep wrinkles are certainly humbling. Oh, and my moisturizers are now more expensive than they’ve ever been.

None of this is fun. But aging has given me something that I didn’t even know I needed: delicious invisibility and freedom from unwanted male attention.

I know that many will take issue with my stance. Society is not kind to women who age, and no one knows that better than women themselves. No one enjoys being ignored when they need something, but the world is not kind to girls or women at any stage, and what I’m talking about is something far more sinister than the store clerk who looks right past me.

I remember the first time a man I didn’t know put his hands on me. It happened in broad daylight at a popular spot in Brooklyn, New York, where locals go to enjoy the view of the Hudson River and the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge that connects my borough to Staten Island. I was 15 years old and enjoying summer break. I spent my days biking around the city and often stopped at this spot, which I’d loved since my parents took me there as a small child.

I hopped off my bike and was admiring the whitecaps that rushed under the bridge when I felt his hand up my shorts. Then, just as quickly, he sped away on his bicycle while his friend cheered him on. The assault was fast, calculated and breathtakingly scary. I wonder now how many other unsuspecting women and children he groped before — and after — me.

I never saw the face of that man who made me afraid to go to the promenade by myself from that point forward. Nearly 30 years later, I’ve never forgotten the assault. For too many years I blamed myself for what happened: Maybe if I’d stayed on my bike … Maybe if I hadn’t worn such short shorts … Maybe if I hadn’t been so taken by that view …

That man was not the first or last to challenge my relationship with public spaces. The following year, another guy I didn’t know cornered me against a gate and wrapped his leg around my waist before animatedly thrusting his hips into me until I shoved him away with all the force my teenage body could muster. His friends laughed as I hurried off in the opposite direction, glancing over my shoulder until they were out of sight.

A few years before either of those encounters, I was walking to a family member’s house a few blocks from my own home when a man who appeared to be my father’s age pulled up next to me in a van and said, “Hey, little girl, I have a bag of candy for you.” Though this sounds like something out of an after-school special — almost too cliche to be real — the danger I felt in that moment was visceral, and I ran away from him as quickly as my feet would carry me.

I know I’m not the only one who has experienced something like this. Many girls and women are often suddenly confronted by a car horn, a whistle or obscenities being leveled at us by men and boys. It seems to get them off, and I would wager that some of them fully intend to instill a bit of fear in their targets.

A few years ago I was on a walk in a rural town when a man approached me on foot, got uncomfortably close and whispered, “Nice tits,” before rubbing himself and walking away. This happened mere feet from a preschool. It was the first time I called the police during an otherwise peaceful walk in broad daylight. I was on high alert the entire way home. I had no way to prove what had just happened, and I’m not sure the police ever came.

Women and girls are targets for unwanted male attention wherever they find themselves. Everything I’m describing has taken place in cities, suburbs and rural towns, and it’s often much worse. It happens in nightclubs. It happens in grocery stores. It’s happening on busy streets in the middle of the day. Women are told to smile. They’re badgered for their numbers. They’re called names if they don’t respond or dare to call out the behavior. It is relentless. It is daunting. And it’s exhausting.

For many of us, this kind of attention begins in our own homes, long before we’re able to make sense of our experiences. I, like many girls, was conditioned by my family to believe that my body was up for criticism, inspection and commentary. When aunts and uncles comment on the length of your legs, or when your parents talk openly about how you’re “filling out” (or not filling out), or when your grandparents admonish you for not “sitting like a lady” before you have any idea what they mean, you come to accept this hyper fixation on your body as normal.

To make matters worse, I was told that unwanted male attention was always the fault of the girl or woman receiving it — no matter what. If I was courageous enough to report these confusing, infuriating and terrifying encounters with strange men and boys to my parents, they would summarily dismiss them as my fault.

Our culture does the exact same thing. Just look at Donald Trump (the former president of the United States!) and the way he has treated women — and how our society has normalized his repugnant behavior. It’s 2024 and we’re still considered playthings for men. And if we don’t like it, we’re labeled rude or frigid, and told we can’t take a joke or don’t know our place.

So, I could not be more thrilled to finally be at an age where I’m mostly unseen by men. With each passing year, I find myself navigating unwanted male attention less and less, which means I can now do something as simple as go for a walk without preemptively bracing myself for rude and hypersexualized comments or uninvited physical contact.

It shouldn’t have to be this way. We shouldn’t have to wait half of our lives to feel safe in our own skin. We shouldn’t have to secure the invisibility that aging offers us to exist in the world without fear of who will approach us and what they’ll say or do. Just think of how much mental and emotional energy we waste — and what we could be capable of if we could spend all of that time and energy creating or connecting with others. What’s more, if women were respected — and desired for more than just their bodies — we might not be rendered invisible as we age (which obviously comes with disadvantages too), and I wouldn’t have to be so overjoyed about finally living undetected.

Unfortunately, it’s too late for me — I’ve already aged out — but it may not be too late for the women and girls coming up after me.

As an author, I believe that starting conversations about these kinds of experiences can be a powerful part of the solution. I write children’s books about unpalatable topics like bullying, family dysfunction and gender-based harassment involving minors because I do not want these traumas to continue to thrive in silence. If we can teach children how to resist objectification — and teach boys not to objectify in the first place — we can change the dominant narrative about women in our culture. For me, it all begins with a simple idea: No one is entitled to opinions about — or access to — other peoples’ bodies without their consent. Period. And I will not stop talking with children about these difficult topics until society has turned a corner.

I’m not holding my breath. It won’t be easy. It will take courage, dedication, uncomfortable discussions, and a lot of support and understanding. But it’s worth fighting for. Besides, now that I’m invisible, I’ve got all of that extra time and energy on my hands, so I hope I can help make the world a little more palatable for the girls who will soon inherit it.

Christina Wyman is a USA Today bestselling author and teacher living in Michigan. “Slouch,” her highly anticipated middle-grade novel, is about a tall girl navigating friends, family, self-esteem, boundaries and the terrifying realization that her body no longer seems to belong to her. It is available wherever books are sold, including local independent bookstores, starting in October 2024. Her debut novel, “Jawbreaker,” a middle-grade book that follows a seventh grader with a craniofacial anomaly, was named one of Publishers Weekly’s best books of 2023.

Need help? Visit RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Online Hotline or the National Sexual Violence Resource Center’s website.

This piece was previously published on HuffPost and is being shared again now as part of HuffPost Personal’s “Best Of” series.

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