It’s been 20 years since Dame Kelly Holmes was made double Olympic champion. She’s been gracing our screens since, both as a Loose Women panellist and a motivational speaker.
Here, she shares her beauty secrets with Prima, on how she looks – and feels – brilliant at 54…
Ageing well
“It’s a privilege to get older but I don’t want to age if ageing means falling apart physically, or letting my mental health deteriorate. I want to get older, but I want to support the process.”
Joint venture
“I was in denial that menopause was going to hit me, until at one stage I couldn’t even do one press up, because of the pain. I started taking collagen every morning and now the pain has gone and my endurance is better than ever.
“Ancient & Brave asked me to work with them on their new Noble Collagen, which specifically targets joint health, and I said yes, because I love it.”
A short story
“My mum always wanted me to be myself. She passed seven years ago and on the morning of her funeral I asked my hairdresser for an undercut. I’d only ever had long hair to fit in. Now, I’ve taken ownership of who I am and my undercut was the start of that journey.”
A DIY eye
“I went to the BRIT Awards earlier this year and my makeup artist got stuck in traffic, so I got on YouTube and searched for ‘rock chic smokey eye tutorial’. I thought I did it quite well – I was impressed! I just had to do everything with the same two brushes, and it took a lot longer.”
Daytime looks
“Day to day, I like makeup that looks like you haven’t made an effort – though of course you have! I’ve used MAC for years; they have a huge range of colours and I used to go into the stores to have my makeup done for events.”
Skincare love
“I’m happy to spend a few extra minutes every morning keeping my skin hydrated, clean and fresh, and I love an intense facial. I cleanse, exfoliate and tone, and I’ve got moisturisers galore.”
Me time
“A hot bubble bath is my thing. I light my candles and put my music on – it’s a chance to relax and shut out the world.
“Radox does some great muscle soothing soaks and I love The White Company Seychelles Signature Candle. Home Bargains has some affordable candles, too.”
Precious perfume
“I’ve been wearing the original Michael Kors Tuberose perfume for years and they’ve stopped making it! I’m literally on the last dribble, so if anyone knows where I can get any spares let me know!”
True beauty
“Beauty is about energy and attitude. Coming out has allowed me to be who I want to be, and not care what anyone thinks of me. This is who I am and I’m comfortable in my own skin.”
Dame Kelly Holmes is an ambassador for Ancient & Brave Noble Collagen
