The top 45 signs of ‘real beauty’, according to Generation X women

Kindness, honesty and having the ability to make others feel comfortable among most important traits, survey finds

Six in 10 of the Generation X women surveyed said they feel confident about the way they look (Getty iStock)

The top signs of "real beauty" include having self-confidence, always being honest, and making others feel comfortable, according to a survey of Generation X women.

The poll of 1,600 women aged between 39 and 53 found that 80 per cent believe it is important for them to be considered a beautiful person on the inside as well as the outside.

But two-thirds of those polled also said they believe women in their 40s and 50s have been "overlooked for too long".

Dr Mike Bell, skincare scientific advisor for Boots No7 Laboratories, which carried out the survey, said: “Research shows that Gen X women are confident and embracing their beauty.

''Our definition of beauty changes as we get older – what was considered beautiful in our 20s may not be the same as our 40s and Gen X women are empowered by their age; to them it is a symbol of the knowledge, experience and confidence they have accumulated.''

(SWNS (SWNS)

The survey also found that regularly displaying kindness and having the courage to stand up for friends are also commonly thought to show someone beautiful.

Other signs of beauty include being happy, laughing frequently, and accepting that your body is always changing.

The poll also found that 58 per cent of the Generation X women surveyed believe they are at a stage in their lives where they understand what they need to do to look and feel their best.

Just over six in 10 said they feel confident about the way they look.

One third of those polled said they keep to a healthy diet and exercise regularly, while four in 10 allow themselves plenty of time to rest and recuperate when needed.

Dr Bell added: ''Research shows that Gen X women are confident and embracing their beauty.

''They are empowered by their age; to them it is a symbol of all the knowledge, experience and confidence they have accumulated."

Top 45 signs of "real beauty"

1. Kindness in how you treat and speak to others

2. Being honest

3. Making others feel comfortable

4. Simply being happy

5. Having the ability to laugh at yourself

6. Being happy to be yourself in front of others

7. Having the courage to stand up for others

8. Tolerance towards others with different beliefs, religions and life choices

9. Knowing when others need a shoulder to cry on

10. Being prepared to admit you are wrong sometimes or made a mistake

11. Asking others how they are feeling

12. Liking yourself

13. Being confident to leave the house without make up

14. Accepting your body is a "work in progress" and "lumps and bumps" are normal

15. Actively encouraging others to do well and pursue their dreams, ambitions and interests

16. Listening to others and putting their needs above your own

17. Conducting regular acts of good will

18. Appreciating the small joys in life

19. Being an optimist

20. Not having to surround yourself with "cool friends"

21. Not always needing to take the limelight in group situations

22. Taking care of yourself inside and out

23. Caring about the environment

24. Being happy to do foolish things without worrying what other people think

25. Not bearing grudges

26. Not placing too much importance on money and material possessions

27. Always remembering significant dates and points of interest for other people

28. Being carefree enough to "dance like no one is watching"

29. Being low maintenance

30. Having the ability to boost other people's self-esteem

31. Having your own combination of unique style and quirks

32. Being happy to open up to others and share your insecurities

33. Being able to compose yourself during tricky situations

34. Having the ability to maintain a good work / life balance

35. Elegance

36. Willingness to meet good friends on a bad hair day

37. Being energetic and getting the most out of life

38. Smiling frequently

39. Being okay about socialising with people you do not necessarily like

40. Wearing your heart on your sleeve

41. Being willing to try new things

42. Laughing frequently

43. Being thoughtful about where you source your clothes, beauty products and food

44.. Having the confidence to sing in front of others

45. Being happy going to the pub to have a drink alone

SWNS