This is what 71 looks like: Mother-of-three says organic hair care, daily workouts and eating only two meals keeps her youthful
- Sue Beardshaw, 71, who lives in Berkhamsted, is retired from pharmaceuticals
- Mother-of-three maintains a youthful appearance with organic hair care
- She stays fit with a 30-minute walk daily, exercise bike and Joe Wicks’ workouts
Sue Beardshaw is single and lives in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire. She has three adult children, aged 40, 35 and 32, and is retired from a career in pharmaceuticals.
GOODBYE RETIREMENT
In 2018 I retired — and became Mayor of Berkhamsted (2018-2019). I was planning to go back to work but there seems to be so much age discrimination for my age group. But I keep busy and love learning. In lockdown, I started volunteering with Age UK locally. It is humbling, and I am very inspired by the people I speak to; their resilience and positivity is incredible. I refuse to retire fully.
ORGANIC HAIRCARE
Four years ago, I had my hair coloured and my hair was burnt, so I changed to an organic salon for my cut and colour. Now I go every few months to The Hair Secret (thehair secret.co.uk). They use natural, ammonia-free dye. At home I use Organic Colour Systems Aqua Boost Shampoo and Conditioner (£12). Now my hair feels much healthier, my scalp less itchy — and it’s thinning less, too.
Sue Beardshaw, 71, (pictured) who lives in Berkhamsted, revealed how organic hair care and daily exercise contribute to her youthful appearance
WORKOUTS WITH WICKS
Before lockdown, I used to go to the gym. Now I go for a 30-minute walk every day plus 30-60 minutes on my exercise bike while watching BBC’s Antiques Road Trip. I also do Joe Wicks’ video workouts. He does a brilliant seniors’ routine, with lots of gentle stretching. He’s so positive and upbeat.
SIMPLE SKINCARE
I wash my face with Little Soap Pure Lavender Soap and cold water (£4, waitrose.com). I use it on my body, too. Then I apply Weleda Iris Hydrating Day and Night Cream, both good for dry skin (£17.95 each, weleda.co.uk). I don’t wear much make-up, but do invest in a Rouge Dior lipstick in shade no. 683, a soft dusky pink (£30, dior.com).
TWO MEALS ONLY
I usually only have two meals a day. I eat brunch at 12pm: a sourdough sandwich with no butter, just a thin slice of chicken and avocado. (My GP recommended cutting out normal bread and dairy.) For dinner, I have an organic burger or fish with grilled veg or salad. I love Mexican food, so if I have a cheat day, I’ll have a burrito.
Do you look good for your age? Reveal your secrets to [email protected]