Beauty Through The Ages

Published 8:16 am Friday, April 17, 2015

South Louisiana is renowned for its beautiful women. While some attribute that to our high humidity and joie de vivre attitudes, Acadiana’s women know that it takes some TLC to keep them looking their best. Here are some tips from local beauties of all ages who agreed to share their secrets.

Troie Autumn Acker

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A natural beauty like her mother, Franchesca Troie left, cleanses and moisturizes daily and does periodic facials using homemade products for problem areas. “Seek out makup that is good for your skin,” she advises. “And, take hair, skin and nail vitamins every day.”

For beautiful hair, Barb suggests using only pro products or pro highlights around the face, which is the current style. As the wife of an oral surgeon, she knows to keep her teeth clean and bleached, accenting them with a red lipstick applied with a lip brush. The natural-looking beauty also goes base-free and uses no harsh eye makeup.

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As for her hourglass figure, Barb advises, “Keep moving! Eat less and healthy, and be sure to get your sleep.” The stylish working mom to beautiful daughter Sara and wife to handsome Dr. Don always looks sharp by updating her accessories and eyewear. And, she keeps a positive attitude by staying interested and always learning.

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Her best advice: “Pick good parents! And keep your dermatologist and plastic surgeon’s numbers handy.”

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Julie Melancon Harris (60s)

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Julie Harris helms the third generation of beauties in her family. “I attribute a great deal of credit to my ‘gene pool,’” she says. “My mother always stressed a healthy diet and exercise, which I believe contributes to your figure, skin and hair.”

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Despite being raised by a generation that shunned sunscreen, Harris still has gorgeous skin. “ I am blessed to have great skin since I grew up in a generation that didn’t have sunscreen, only suntan lotion or oil,” she shares. “As a young adult, I took care of my skin by using Dove soap, sunscreen and  drug store moisturizer. Then, as I could afford, I progressed to using products recommended by my dermatologist. Department store makeup is what has worked for me, plus seeing my hairstylist — who happens to be one of my daughters — every six weeks.”