Mum, 43, 'constantly mistaken' for daughter’s sister because she looks so young

An age-defying mother regularly gets mistaken for her daughter's sister despite the 23-year age gap between them.

Joleen Diaz, 43, and 19-year-old daughter Meilani Parks have a very close relationship and spend a lot of time together.

So much so that the northern Carolina women are often the source of confusion.

Joleen says a 'balanced, healthy diet' and active lifestyle have left her looking far younger than her years.

A beauty regime that revolves around skin care, which she started when she was just 12-years-old, has also helped to stave off the wrinkles.

The Diaz women share a close relationship (Jam Press)

Due to their closeness Meilani does not mind being confused for her mother's sister.

Elementary school teacher Joleen said: "I don't think she minds. While she was growing up, she would often hear people tell me they thought my mother was my sister.

"I was pretty young when I had her, so it's not entirely impossible that we could be sisters."

Joleen, left, and her daughter Meilani (Jam Press)

Some people struggle to believe that Joleen and Meilani Diaz are mother and daughter (Jam Press)

Those wanting to age with similar levels of grace as Joleen may have to commit to following her rigorous regime.

She continued: "I religiously take care of my skin, and everyday wash my face in the morning and before I go to bed. 

"I began taking care of my skin at a young age, around 12 or 13. My mom used to buy Mary Kay and I would secretly use her skin care products. 

"A product that has shown dramatic change for me is, tretinoin. Most people know it as Retin-A.

The 43-year-old follows a strict skincare regime (Jam Press)

Joleen uses a range of different skincare treatments (Jam Press)

"I've been using it now for about a year and a half, and I've seen my skin just get better and better.

"Living in California, sun protection is naturally key. I absolutely use sunscreen, every day, even on cloudy, rainy days. I also use a vitamin C serum day and night.

"Having good skin gives me confidence, even on the days I don't look my best."

Single mum Joleen puts her youthful glow down to good old-fashioned clean living (Jam Press)

Mum, left, and daughter now follow the same beauty regime (Jam Press)

Joleen insists that her daughter started the same regime when she was 12-years-old.

Despite their closeness, the youthful looking mum has no intention to embed herself in her daughter's social life.

"Meilani and I have never gone clubbing or partying together. And I don't foresee us doing that anytime in the near future," Joleen said.

"I've had my share of doing both and these days I'd rather stay home, drink a nice cup of hot tea, and watch a good movie."