

Discover more from How Not to F*ck Up Your Face
Welcome to a special edition of HNTFUYF—special, because it’s our first guest post.
And what a post! What a guest! I’ve been reluctant to hand over HNTFUYF to anyone else because I love hanging with you every week. But not long ago in Roxane Gay’s Substack, The Audacity, there appeared a captivating guest-host who seemed exactly right for HNTFUYF, too.
She’s honest, wise, compassionate, and fun. Her name is Aubrey Hirsch. She’s a writer and illustrator—you can read more of her terrific work here. And you should! But for now, please savor the lagniappe below.
Oops! Don’t forget to hit the ❤️ to give a warm welcome to guests the world over.
A Moment of Personal Horn-Blowing
HNTFUYF was recently included in a roundup of the “23 Best Health and Wellness Newsletters of 2023” by the (what else?) health and wellness website Ness. Thanks, Ness, and thanks to all you HNTFUYF-ers for inspiring me with your thoughtful questions and comments. xo
HNTFUYF, a Payola-Free Zone
Readers, a few of you have asked if I get a cut from sales when I mention a product. I do not. I only mention products I’d like to buy myself, and therefore think you might like, too. I share this so you know my recommendations are offered without obligation.
Val Asks You
Don’t be shy! What’s your most vexing or intractable appearance issue? Send your beauty-related questions to valeriemonroe@substack.com. If I don’t have a good answer, I’ll find someone who does.
A Fresh Take on the Going Gray Decision
Thanks so much for having me and for that very kind intro!! <3
I stopped having my hair colored to hide the grey during the pandemic. At 57, I’m coming to terms with looking my actual age — the hair isn’t as much a giveaway as my jawline, at this stage of life anyway. I can’t say I love the grey but I am accepting it. I believe it’s a healthier choice to go dye free, and I save money and time in the salon too. Everyone who has commented on my hair has been positive, so I guess anyone who doesn’t like it is staying politely quiet with their opinion. I have zero judgment about anyone else’s decisions to hide the grey or not!