Aging Gracefully: 6 Tips from Isabella Rossellini

Isabella Rossellini celebrates her 72nd birthday on June 18. The actress is known not only for her remarkable work in films such as David Lynch's "Blue Velvet" and Robert Zemeckis's "Death Becomes Her," but also for her long-term collaboration with the cosmetic giant Lancôme. She was first trusted to represent this French brand in the early 1980s when she was just over 30. Rossellini's example proves that age is no barrier to beauty, and she shares her insights on aging with dignity.

Skincare

"I started using creams in my youth. I had a skin cream, an eye cream, and a sunscreen. Though in winter, when it's gray, I often forget to use it, but now I've become more attentive. It's important for all women not to neglect SPF protection."

Cosmetic Procedures

"My choice is to do nothing. However, I believe that various interventions or beauty injections are a personal matter. If it makes someone feel better and more at ease, then let them. The thing is, I underwent a severe spinal surgery as a child, and the mere thought of going back to the hospital, even for beauty, terrifies me. Look at the photos of Simone Signoret or Anna Magnani—they remained beautiful even in old age. Plus, using Botox goes against my philosophy. On one hand, I run a farm and eat exclusively organic food, but on the other hand, I would inject a toxin that paralyzes my muscles, even in very small doses?"

Positive Thinking

"I believe that positive thinking is a part of me, and I was born joyful. I have always been grateful for what I have in life. Naturally, like any woman, I often look in the mirror and may be dissatisfied with something, but that doesn't mean you should immediately get upset. Yes, when I see my neck, it drives me crazy, but I immediately remind myself that lipstick still looks great on my lips."

Dressing for Your Age

"Dressing for your age, dressing elegantly, or modestly—these are all clichés. Look at the wonderful Iris Apfel, who wears crazy accessories and bright prints, while someone else feels comfortable in minimalist clothing. I believe that clothes should be a mirror of your character and lifestyle, and you should feel comfortable in them. Elegance to me is individuality and personal perspective; the rest is just fluff."

Women's Solidarity

"The closeness of the relationship with my daughter is important to me; this generational connection helps us stay in tune. My older daughter Elettra was 10 years old when my younger son Roberto was born, so for almost 30 years, I constantly felt like a mother who always had someone to take care of and look after. When the children grew up, I even felt a sense of emptiness, but at that moment, my daughter became a mother herself, and our bond became even stronger."

Curiosity

"Curiosity is what makes my life rich and interesting. And it doesn't depend on age. Whatever I start doing—acting in movies, studying animal life, or writing scripts—I do it with curiosity, asking myself: 'What if...?' My internal interest is always more important to me than external success, which may or may not happen."