Spilling her secrets: Melanie Robinson

Melanie Robinson is a music and theater instructor at Rock U 2 in Ocean Springs, a proud military wife to her husband, Clark, and the reigning Elite Mrs. Mississippi. She will compete at the international Queen of the World Pageant in March 2023, where is she proud to represent as a curvy 52-year-old. She writes about body positivity, healthy mindset, aging gracefully and finding your own beauty at thecurvyqueenmel.com.

Here are some of her must-have products:

THE SECRET TO SOFT, PLUMP SKIN

The lightweight, yet super-moisturizing Gold Bond Softening Lotion is how I keep my skin soft and looking plump. The cocoa butter helps to keep the “crepe-y” look of the elbows and knees at bay.

‘CLEARED UP MY ROSACEA’

As I got older, my face got more sensitive to products. Pacifica Rose Kombucha Face Wash totally cleared up my rosacea and evened out my complexion. Big plus – it comes in a travel size, too!

GENTLE, NON-IRRITATING FACE WIPES

Before I wash my face, I use Neutrogena Makeup Removal Wipes to take off my eye makeup and mascara. These are so gentle and non-irritating, and they work as a great toner after I wash my whole face.

‘TURNED BACK THE CLOCK AT LEAST FIVE YEARS’

After I wash and tone my face, I apply Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion before I go to bed. I swear, this lightweight, gentle moisturizer has turned back the clock at least five years because my skin looks plump and hydrated.

GREAT SUNSCREEN FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

What’s the big secret to avoiding fine lines and wrinkles? It’s sunscreen. A big thanks to my mother, who emphasized wearing sunscreen before it was “cool.” Hawaiian Tropic Weightless Face Sunscreen does not leave a white residue and is great for sensitive skin.

BEST SETTING SPRAY ON THE MARKET

Ask any beauty blogger — Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray is the best on the market to keep makeup from breaking down. I’ve used it under hot lights onstage, as well as during the hottest Mississippi days; my makeup stays put.

BOLD HAIR COLOR WITHOUT THE COMMITMENT

As you can see, I like to wear bold hair color. Artic Fox SemiPermanent Hair Color is not only an easy way to try out a new color without a long commitment, but it’s an affordable way to stretch out my color between salon appointments. It’s super gentle on my salt-and-pepper hair, too.

KEEP YOUR COLOR-TREATED LOCKS HEALTHY, VIBRANT

If you invest in your hair color, keep it from washing out too quickly by using a sulfate free shampoo and conditioner; I recommend Pantene Sulfate-Free Shampoo. I’ve had pink, blue and purple hair, and Pantene’s products keep my hair healthy and vibrant.

‘LITTLE WRINKLES ON MY NECK DISAPPEARED’

I bought the Neocutis Lumiere Eye Cream and Neo Firm last December, and I’ve seen a big difference in how much firmer my skin looks around my eyes. Also, the little wrinkles on my neck disappeared. These are a little pricey, but a little bit goes a long way and should last for months — definitely less expensive than fillers.