Youthful, Gorgeous Mature Make-Up
SEPTEMBER
As we age, our skin goes through various changes that require us to adapt our beauty routines. Applying makeup on mature skin is different from applying it on youthful skin due to these changes. Mature skin tends to be drier, thinner, and more prone to fine lines and wrinkles, so the goal is to enhance natural beauty while addressing these concerns.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving a soft, dewy, natural makeup look for mature skin, along with the reasons why each step is important.
Step 1: Skincare Preparation
Hydrate and Prime
Cleanser: Start with a gentle, hydrating cleanser to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils.
Moisturizer: Apply a rich, hydrating moisturizer to plump up the skin and create a smooth base for makeup. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
Primer: Use a hydrating primer to fill in fine lines and create a smooth surface for foundation. A primer with a slight illuminating effect can add a healthy glow.
Why: Mature skin is often drier and can appear dull. Hydrating products help to plump up the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and create a luminous base.
Step 2: Foundation
Choose a Lightweight, Dewy Formula
Foundation: Opt for a lightweight, hydrating foundation with a dewy finish. Avoid heavy, matte foundations that can settle into fine lines.
Application: Apply foundation sparingly using a damp beauty sponge or a brush. Start from the center of the face and blend outwards.
Why: A dewy foundation helps to reflect light, giving the skin a youthful glow. Lightweight formulas prevent the makeup from looking cakey or settling into wrinkles.
Step 3: Concealer
Brighten and Conceal
Concealer: Use a hydrating, light-reflecting concealer under the eyes to cover dark circles and brighten the area. Choose a shade that is one to two shades lighter than your foundation.
Application: Apply in the darker areas under the eyes (don’t put it in a triangular shape under the eyes as this will instantly make your eyes look puffy).
Why: Mature skin under the eyes can be thinner and more prone to darkness. A brightening concealer helps to lift and refresh the eye area without emphasizing fine lines.
Step 4: Blush and Bronzer
Add a Natural Flush and Warmth
Blush: Choose a cream blush in a natural, rosy shade. Cream formulas blend seamlessly into the skin and provide a dewy finish.
Bronzer: Lightly apply a cream or liquid bronzer to add warmth and definition. Focus on the areas where the sun naturally hits your face.
Why: Cream products are more hydrating and blend better on mature skin compared to powders, which can look dry and accentuate texture.
Step 5: Eyes
Enhance with Soft, Neutral Tones
Eyeshadow: Use neutral, satin-finish eyeshadows to enhance the eyes without emphasizing wrinkles. Avoid glittery or overly shimmery shades.
Eyeliner: Instead of using a hard, sharp eyeliner pencil, I use a small soft brush, a smidge of water and eyeshadow. Mix into a smooth paste and place it where you would put eyeliner.
Mascara: Use a lengthening mascara to open up the eyes. Avoid heavy formulas that can weigh down the lashes.
Why: Soft, neutral tones enhance the eyes naturally without drawing attention to fine lines. Satin finishes provide a subtle glow without being too reflective.
Step 6: Brows
Define and Lift
Brow Pencil/ Powder: Use to fill in sparse areas with light, feathery strokes. Aim for a natural, fuller look.
Brow Gel: Set the brows with a clear or tinted brow gel to keep them in place.
Why: Well-defined brows frame the face and provide a youthful lift. Avoid overly harsh lines to maintain a natural look.
Step 7: Lips
Hydrate and Define
Lip Liner: Use a lip liner in a shade close to your natural lip colour to define the lips and prevent feathering.
Lipstick: Choose a hydrating, satin-finish lipstick in a natural, flattering shade. Avoid matte formulas which can be drying.
Gloss: Add a touch of gloss to the center of the lips for a fuller, dewy effect.
Why: Hydrated, defined lips look more youthful and prevent lipstick from feathering into fine lines around the mouth.
Step 8: Setting
Set with a Light Touch
Setting Spray: Use a hydrating setting spray to lock in the makeup and add a final dewy finish.
Powder (optional): If necessary, use a light dusting of translucent powder only on areas prone to shine. Avoid applying too much powder, especially on areas with fine lines.
Why: Setting spray helps to keep makeup in place without adding heaviness. Minimal powder prevents the makeup from looking dry or cakey.
Conclusion
Applying makeup on mature skin requires a focus on hydration, light-reflecting formulas, and a gentle touch. The goal is to enhance natural beauty while addressing the specific needs of mature skin, such as dryness and fine lines. By following these steps, you can achieve a soft, dewy, natural makeup look that radiates youthful vibrancy and confidence.