As we get older, our skin changes and that means we need to adjust the makeup products we use. To keep our skin looking beautiful and glowing, it’s important to update our beauty routines. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to achieve a radiant look that celebrates your age! We’ll talk about how skin changes over time, how to prepare your skin for makeup, the best foundations and concealers for mature skin, eye makeup tips, and helpful makeup techniques just for mature skin.
Ready to discover the secrets to flawless makeup for mature skin? Let’s dive into expert tips and product recommendations that will help you shine at any age!
As we age, our skin changes due to a combination of genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors. For everyone, this process can lead to a range of common skin issues.
Both men and women may experience increased dryness, diminished elasticity, and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Factors such as sun exposure, smoking, and poor diet can exacerbate these changes. To lessen these effects, adopting a healthy lifestyle is key. Understanding these changes can help individuals take proactive steps to care for their skin and find the right products.
Aging Skin in Women
- Decrease in Collagen Production: Collagen is a protein that provides structural support to the skin and gives it a youthful appearance. As women age, their bodies produce less collagen, resulting in thinner and more fragile skin.
- Loss of Elasticity: With a decrease in collagen production, there is also a loss of elasticity in the skin. This results in sagging and wrinkles.
- Dryness: As women enter menopause, their bodies produce less estrogen, which is responsible for maintaining the skin’s hydration. This can lead to dryness and dullness.
- Age Spots: Over time, exposure to sunlight causes melanocytes (cells that produce pigment) to clump together, leading to age spots or hyperpigmentation.
Want to learn about men’s skincare needs? Check out our article “Easy 5-Step Skincare Routine for Men”.
Skincare Preparation for Mature Skin
Before applying makeup, it is important to prepare your skin properly. This will not only make your makeup look better but will also help it last longer throughout the day. Here are some skincare tips specifically for mature skin:
- Exfoliate regularly: As we age, our cell turnover slows down, which can lead to dull and flaky skin. Exfoliating 1-2 times a week can help remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother and brighter skin.
- Moisturize thoroughly: Mature skin tends to be drier, so it is crucial to moisturize well. Look for moisturizers that contain hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides, which can help hydrate and plump the skin.
- Use an eye cream: The delicate skin around our eyes is often the first area to show signs of aging. Look for an eye cream with ingredients like caffeine or retinol, which can help reduce puffiness and fine lines.
- Prime your skin: Using a primer before applying makeup can create a smooth canvas for your makeup. Look for primers that are specifically formulated for mature skin, as many contain anti-aging ingredients.
- Know your skin type: Make sure you learn how to identify your skin type before purchasing products. Knowing this will ensure you’re using the best products for you.
Best Primers for Mature Skin
One of the key steps in preparing mature skin for makeup application is using a primer. Here are some of the best primers for mature skin:
- bareMinerals Prime Time Hydrate & Glow Primer: This mineral-based primer helps to smooth the skin’s surface, and hydrate the skin. It is also free of parabens and harsh chemicals, making it a great choice for sensitive skin.
- Smashbox Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Foundation Primer: This primer is formulated with a blend of vitamins A and E, grape seed extract, and green tea to nourish and protect the skin. It also blurs fine lines and wrinkles for a more youthful appearance.
- L’Oreal Paris Age Perfect Blurring Face Primer With Caring Serum: Specifically designed for mature skin, this primer contains light-reflecting pearls to brighten the complexion and blur imperfections.
Choosing the Right Foundation for Mature Skin
Foundation is the base of any makeup look. As such, finding one that works well with your mature skin is crucial. Here are some tips for choosing the right foundation:
- Look for hydrating formulas: Mature skin tends to be drier, so look for foundations that have a hydrating formula. Avoid matte foundations, as they can accentuate fine lines and dry patches.
- Choose medium coverage: Heavy, full-coverage foundations can often settle into fine lines and wrinkles, making them more noticeable. Opt for a medium coverage foundation instead and use concealer in areas where you need extra coverage.
- Try out different application techniques: Instead of using a brush or sponge, try applying foundation with your fingers. The warmth from your fingers can help the product blend seamlessly into your skin. You can also try using a damp beauty sponge, which can help achieve a more natural and dewy finish.
- Consider a luminous finish: Foundations with a luminous or satin finish can give your skin a healthy glow, helping to minimize the appearance of dullness and dryness. Look for products specifically designed for mature skin to enhance your natural radiance.
Best Foundations for Wrinkles and Fine Lines
Some foundations are specifically formulated to work well with mature skin, targeting concerns such as wrinkles and fine lines. Here are some of the best foundations for wrinkles and fine lines:
- IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream: This cult-favorite foundation is infused with anti-aging ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, and collagen. These ingredients make it a great choice for aging skin.
- Estée Lauder Perfectionist Youth-Infusing Serum Foundation: This foundation contains a serum that helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time. It also has buildable coverage, so you can customize it based on your needs.
- L’Oréal Paris True Match Super Blendable Foundation: This budget-friendly option is perfect for mature skin. It provides a natural and radiant finish without settling into fine lines.
Concealer for Mature Skin
Concealer is an essential component of any makeup routine, especially for mature skin. As we age, our skin undergoes changes that can lead to dark circles, age spots, and other concerns. A good concealer not only helps to cover these flaws but also enhances the overall complexion, giving a more radiant look. Additionally, knowing where and when to use concealer can help create an age-defying look. Here are some tips for choosing the right concealer:
- Opt for a creamy formula: Creamy concealers are typically more hydrating and blend better on mature skin compared to thicker formulas.
- Go one shade lighter than your foundation: Choosing a concealer that is slightly lighter than your foundation can help brighten and lift the under-eye area. This makes you look more awake and youthful.
- Use a color-correcting concealer: For specific concerns like dark circles or age spots, try using a color-correcting concealer. Peach tones can help neutralize dark circles, while green tones can cancel out redness from blemishes.
- Don’t forget to set it: To ensure your concealer stays put throughout the day, use a setting spray. This will help prevent creasing and keep your makeup looking fresh.
Best Concealers for Mature Skin
Here are some of the best concealers for mature skin:
- Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer: This cult-favorite concealer helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark circles.
- Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer: This full-coverage concealer is infused with mango and shea butter to moisturize the skin while providing maximum coverage. It also comes in a wide range of shades, making it suitable for all skin tones.
- Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat Illuminating Pen: This iconic concealer not only brightens dark circles but also blurs fine lines and imperfections. Its lightweight formula makes it perfect for mature skin.
Eye Makeup for Mature Skin
As we age, our eye area may start to droop or become more hooded. Here are some tips for eye makeup application on mature skin:
- Start with a good base: Just like your face, it is important to prep your eyelids before applying eye makeup. Use an eyeshadow primer to help your eyeshadow last longer and prevent creasing.
- Avoid shimmery shadows: Shimmery or glittery eyeshadows can accentuate fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes. Opt for matte or satin finishes instead.
- Use neutral shades: Neutral shades such as taupes, browns, and creams can help create a soft and natural look on mature eyes. Avoid using harsh or bright colors, as they can make the eyes appear more tired.
- Don’t forget about eyeliner: A thin line of black or brown eyeliner along the upper lash line can help define and lift drooping eyelids. Avoid thick or winged liner, as it can make the eyes look smaller.
- Curl your lashes: As we age, our lashes may become thinner and less voluminous. Using an eyelash curler can help open up the eyes and make them appear more awake.
Pro Tip: Watch QC’s live makeup class Q&A where Nathan Johnson tackled questions about eye makeup, makeup for mature skin, and more!
Top 10 Makeup Tips for Aging Skin
In addition to the advice above, here are 10 more makeup tips specifically designed for aging skin!
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. This will help prevent dryness and dullness.
- Moisturize before makeup: Make sure to moisturize your skin before applying any makeup products. This will create a smooth base for application.
- Use a color-correcting primer: If you have areas of redness or discoloration on your face, using a color-correcting primer can help neutralize them before applying foundation.
- Invest in quality brushes: Good quality makeup brushes can make a world of difference. Look for soft, dense brushes that will blend products seamlessly.
- Avoid heavy powder: As we age, our skin tends to become drier. Avoid using heavy powders that can make it look even drier and more textured.
- Fill in your eyebrows: Eyebrows tend to thin with age. Filling them in with a brow pencil or powder can help frame the face and give a more youthful appearance.
- Choose cream blushes and highlighters: Cream formulas are great for aging skin! They add moisture and create a natural, dewy finish.
- Set makeup with setting spray instead of powder: Instead of using powder to set your makeup, use a setting spray. This will keep your makeup in place without drying out the skin.
- Take care of your lips: As we age, our lips may lose volume and become more dry and lined. Use a hydrating lip balm regularly and opt for creamy or satin finish lipsticks instead of matte formulas.
- Remove makeup before bed: It is important to remove all traces of makeup before going to bed. Leaving it on can clog your pores and lead to breakouts.
Embracing Your Beauty: Final Thoughts on Makeup for Mature Skin
Aging is a part of life, and a beautiful part of your journey. Your makeup should help enhance that beauty, not hide it. So embrace your wrinkles and fine lines, and let your inner radiance shine through. Overall, the key to successful makeup application on mature skin is to focus on moisture, luminosity, and enhancing your features in a subtle way. Remember to have fun with it, don’t let age hold you back!
Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. After all, age is just a number and beauty knows no limits!
Makeup For Ageing Skin FAQ
Do I need to switch to all "anti-aging" makeup products?
Not necessarily. While many anti-aging products can be beneficial for mature skin, not all of them are. It is more important to focus on hydrating and nourishing ingredients rather than just labels such as “anti-aging”.
How do I prevent my foundation from settling into fine lines and wrinkles?
Make sure to properly prep your skin with moisturizer before applying foundation. Using a primer and opting for lighter, buildable coverage can also help prevent settling into fine lines.
Do I apply foundation or concealer first?
It’s usually best to put on foundation first, then use concealer on spots that need more coverage. This method helps you get a smooth, even look while letting you fix specific areas as needed.
What's the best way to remove makeup without irritating my aging skin?
To start, try using a gentle cleanser designed for mature skin. After this, follow up with a moisturizer or night cream to remove makeup without irritating your skin. Micellar water can also be a great option for quick and gentle makeup removal.
What's the best way to apply concealer on mature skin?
To avoid creasing and caking, use a small amount of concealer and blend it in with your fingers or a damp beauty sponge. Also, make sure to choose a lightweight, hydrating formula.
Should I still wear sunscreen under my makeup as I age?
Absolutely! Protecting your skin from sun damage is important at any age. Look for makeup products that contain SPF or apply mineral sunscreen before applying your makeup.
As a makeup artist, are there differences to consider when working with mature clients?
Providing business to mature clients is similar to any other client. However, as mentioned throughout this article you will likely need to use different products and makeup application techniques. Mature clients can also have different expectations than younger clients. We recommend checking out our article “What Mature Clients Look for in a Makeup Artist.”
