Neglecting daily and systematic care for your hair and skin can turn even the most attractive woman into someone who looks plain. But everything can change—with the right mindset. Just ask Barbara, the American woman whose transformation proves it.

For many years, Barbara only washed her hair with regular shampoo. She never moisturized her skin or tried to fight the signs of aging. That all changed when, for her 65th birthday, her family gifted her a voucher for a beauty salon.

Upon meeting with the stylist, the first thing they pointed out was that Barbara didn’t need any drastic changes to her appearance. The key decision was to give her gray hair a more refined, darker shade, which, combined with a stylish asymmetrical bob, took almost a decade off her look.

The final touch was a minimalist makeup look in soft, pastel tones. It evened out her skin tone, and a well-chosen mascara highlighted the beautiful blue of her eyes.

For many, including Barbara, a visit to a stylist can be a true cure for the blues and gloom. It’s a reminder that, even during the toughest times, it’s worth considering how to improve your appearance—because sometimes, a little change can spark motivation for new achievements.