Dr. Amy Wechsler, MC's resident dermatologist and psychiatrist, analyzes 22-year-old Lydia Hamel, from Victoria, BC.
HAIR
AW: Her long, unstyled hair says that she is relatively low-maintenance.
LH: I haven't cut it in two years. I'm lazy when it comes to hair. Wash 'n' wear!
BRACES
AW: Wearing braces at her age shows that she's making a big effort to improve her appearance.
LH: I moved around so much when I was younger that I didn't have one regular orthodontist. Now that I'm settled, I'm finally able to have braces.
FOREHEAD
AW: There's a crease in her brow — she's young to have wrinkles. This could be an expression she commonly makes.
LH: I tend to make this face a lot when I'm self-conscious.
EXPRESSION
AW: Her upward stare is goofy. She seems to be avoiding eye contact.
LH: I was a little nervous with so many people around taking this photo, so I looked away.
Following her initial take, Wechsler digs deeper.
AW: Did your teeth bother you a lot before you got braces?
LH: Yes, but it was more comfort-related than aesthetic. My teeth rounded inward and rubbed my tongue.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
AW: Is it hard having braces as an adult?
LH: At first it was. People didn't take me seriously because they thought I was much younger. After having braces for a year, you just have to see the humor in it.
AW: You should feel good about making the effort to focus on yourself. And you have a cute smile! Has having braces changed the way you present yourself?
LH: I definitely don't like to smile as widely as I once did. I don't feel as pretty.
AW: What about the mole above your lip — do you mind it?
LH: I've always loved it. It reminds me of Marilyn Monroe.
AW: You say you make the expression in the picture a lot. When your face is relaxed, is there still a crease in your brow?
LH: I don't think so. Should I be careful about that?
AW: If you overuse certain muscles, they will "hypertrophy" over time. The muscles constantly pull on the skin, causing wrinkles and lines.
LH: I also tend to blush a lot. Is there a way to stop that?
AW: Blushing is totally situational. Some people flush when it's cold or they drink a hot beverage. It's helpful to figure out what your triggers are and see if you can avoid them. Do you know yours?
LH: I blush when I get a lot of attention, if someone flatters me, or if I'm embarrassed.
AW: Being featured in this story will be a great test of your confidence then!
-
Jess Hong Enters Her Chaotic Era
She was doing kids’ theater in New Zealand when she landed the leading role on Netflix’s epic ‘3 Body Problem.’ And now that the show is No. 1 on the streamer, her whole world is about to change.
By Jessica M. Goldstein Published
-
39 J.Crew, Reformation, and COS Items That Are Ideal for Spring Travel
Spring ready.
By Allyson Payer Published
-
Taylor Swift Breaks Yet Another Music-Industry Record
This is pretty much the norm now, no?
By Meghan De Maria Published
-
Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth: Does It Really Work?
The natural remedy went viral, but it's not a miracle worker.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Published
-
The 32 Best Hair Growth Shampoos of 2024, According to Experts
Rapunzel hair, coming right up.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Published
-
The 12 Best Deep Conditioners for Curly and Natural Hair, According to Hairstylists and Editors
Fight damage and frizz, rain or shine.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Last updated
-
The 20 Best Hair Masks for Damaged Hair, According to Experts and Editors
Healthy strands, here we come!
By Gabrielle Ulubay Last updated
-
How Often You Should Wash Your Hair, According To Experts
Keep it fresh, my friends.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Published
-
The 11 Best Magnetic Lashes of 2023
Go ahead and kiss your messy lash glue goodbye.
By Hana Hong Published
-
Beauty Advent Calendars Make the Perfect Holiday Gift
The gift that keeps on giving.
By Julia Marzovilla Last updated
-
The 18 Best Natural Hair Products in 2023
Remember: Your curls are your crown.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Published