When 85-year-old Young-ja Joo appeared in a TikTok video posted by her granddaughter, the internet couldn’t believe her age. Her skin looked radiant, smooth, and almost completely free of wrinkles, which many described as true “glass skin”. Viewers flooded the comments asking for her secrets, assuming there must be a complicated routine behind her youthful glow.
But Joo’s habits are surprisingly simple. Her granddaughter, Ava Lee, a skincare influencer and founder of the beauty brand byAVA, says her grandmother’s routine is built on balance, protection, and consistency, not expensive products or cosmetic treatments. Let’s look at the three science-backed habits that have helped Joo maintain her youthful complexion well into her eighties.
The simple daily habits behind her youthful skin
While genetics may give Joo an edge, dermatologists agree her lifestyle plays a major role. Her approach combines smart nutrition, diligent sun protection, and a simple, nourishing skincare routine.
1. Protecting her skin from the sun
One of Joo’s longest-standing habits is avoiding direct sunlight. She began wearing SPF daily in her 30s, long before sunscreen became a skincare staple. “Whenever she’s out in the sun, ever since she was a teenager, she’s always worn a hat, sunglasses, and something to protect her skin“, Lee says. Even in the summer, she prefers long sleeves to keep UV rays off her arms.
Dermatologists emphasize that this kind of protection makes a visible difference over time. Dr. Derek V. Chan, a board-certified dermatologist in Manhattan, has said that using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is one of the most effective ways to slow down skin aging. Combined with protective clothing and shade, consistent SPF use prevents collagen breakdown, the main cause of sagging and fine lines.
2. Eating protein-rich meals, especially fish
Joo’s diet centers on balance, with an emphasis on lean protein. She eats fish four to five times a week, alongside vegetables and grains. “She always emphasizes to me that you always have to have a balance of greens, carbs, and protein”, Lee explains.
Protein helps the body produce collagen and elastin, the building blocks of firm skin. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish like salmon and mackerel also reduce inflammation and help maintain the skin barrier, keeping it hydrated and supple. Experts note that protein needs increase slightly with age.
3. Keeping her skincare routine simple
Despite her granddaughter’s access to high-end products, Joo sticks to a basic regimen. She enjoys testing new moisturizers but mostly uses affordable, hydrating Korean brands. Dermatologists agree that a simple approach can be more effective than layering multiple products. Overcomplicating routines can irritate mature skin, while consistent hydration supports barrier function and minimizes the appearance of wrinkles.
Dr. Chan recommends using a moisturizer with SPF to lock in hydration while maintaining protection during the day. At night, a gentle cleanser and a rich moisturizer are usually enough to keep the skin soft and resilient.
What we can learn from her habits
Joo’s story proves that healthy skin requires steady care and smart habits: protect your skin daily, eat nutrient-rich foods, and keep routines gentle and consistent. Adding small changes, like wearing sunscreen even indoors or eating oily fish a few times a week, can make a noticeable difference over time.