Meet Carice van Houten

Carice van Houten — known worldwide as Melisandre from Game of Thrones, actress, producer, activist, and one of the Netherlands' most recognizable faces — consciously opts for subtle treatments. No major interventions, but just a little more peace and freshness when she looks in the mirror.

How do you stay true to yourself in a world where aging is often something you have to hide?

For Carice, beauty isn't about perfection, it's about character. In this candid conversation, she explains why she chose Aēstec, what a treatment brings her — from outside and inside — and how she shapes graceful aging: honestly, powerfully and without a filter.

Why did you choose Aēstec as your cosmetic clinic?

“Because I love people who take their job seriously, without taking themselves too seriously. They're a good listener, they don't do things you don't need to do, and they're honest about what works or doesn't work. That gives confidence.”

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What does a cosmetic treatment bring you — from the outside and the inside?

“From the outside, it gives me just that little bit more freshness, like I had a good night's sleep. Inside, it's more at rest: the feeling that I don't have to fight with what I see in the mirror. No transformation, no new version of myself — just a little more balance between how I feel and how I look.”

What does “staying natural” mean to you, even if you opt for a subtle treatment?

“For me, it means that your face can keep telling you who you are. Not trying to imitate what you once were, but supporting yourself in a way that suits today. Of course, expression is also crucial in my work as an actress. I don't need to look younger, but I do need to look awake, present. Like you had a good night's sleep and just came back from a week in Terschelling.”

As a woman in the spotlight, your appearance is often under a magnifying glass. How do you deal with aging in a world where youth still seems to be the norm?

“I'm not trying to find something about everything—not even every wrinkle. Sometimes that is difficult, especially in a world where everything is filtered. Getting older is a privilege. Not everyone gets that chance. It is also something that I am very happy about in other areas. Life experience is a great asset, and it should show. So when I look in the mirror and see a new wrinkle, I also try to find gratitude in that. I don't want to stop it — and I can't. But I can mitigate it.”

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What does “graceful aging” mean to you — in words, feelings, or maybe an example?

“For me, 'Graceful aging' means moving with yourself, instead of swimming against it. It's best to get something done if it makes you happy — as long as you do it out of conviction, not fear.”

More yourself, over the years

Carice van Houten shows that beauty is not an end point. With her characteristic honesty, she reminds us that getting older isn't a shortage — it's a wealth. At Aēstec, we believe in the same vision: strengthening yourself without losing yourself. For an appearance that doesn't make you younger, but more yourself.

Graceful aging. On your terms.

Wondering what it can do for you? Our doctors are happy to think along with you.