Makeup

Age-Defying Makeup Tips: Why You Should Avoid Powder Eyeshadow

From a young age, I’ve been captivated by makeup—sneaking it on before school in my teenage years and embracing the trend of ‘foundation lips’ in my twenties. Cosmetics have always sparked joy in me. However, as we mature, it’s essential to reassess what works for our skin. A product that suited you in your twenties might not be ideal in your forties and beyond.

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As we get older, we need to update our makeup bags

Certain products in your makeup kit can add years to your appearance, which no one desires. We all want to highlight our natural beauty and skin. I’ve received many inquiries in my Ask Laura Inbox on how to retain a youthful look, so I’ve brought in an expert!

Carly Utting, Global Senior Artist at M.A.C Cosmetics, shares amazing tips to refresh your makeup collection for a youthful glow.

Swap face wipes for cleansing oil

Carly advises: “With age, we should make subtle adjustments to our beauty routines that enhance our skin and features.

Cleansing your face with a oil will elevate your base© Getty Images
Cleansing your face with a oil will elevate your base

“My top tip for achieving a radiant and flawless base is investing in quality skincare and preparation. 

“Double cleansing is essential; it provides a thoroughly clean and fresh canvas for makeup application. Start with a cleansing oil, followed by a foaming cleanser. Your skin will feel remarkably fresh and nourished with beneficial ingredients.”

Opt for a serum foundation as you age

“Finding the right foundation can truly transform your makeup routine. Aging doesn’t mean sacrificing luxurious skin! My go-to for a youthful makeup look is the Studio Radiance Serum Powered Foundation, £39/$46 It’s composed of 80% skincare with 33 potent ingredients to offer both a glossy finish and skin treatment throughout the day. A high-quality concealer will also seamlessly lift and brighten the under-eye area.”

Trade powder eyeshadows for cream formulas

“When it comes to eye makeup, I suggest using products that deliver long-lasting results as we age. 

woman applying eyeshadow, close-up of eye© Getty Images
Try using a cream eyeshadow, not a powder

Cream-to-powder products are less prone to creasing and provide better longevity. Use a dark pencil to enhance your eyes, then blend it out gently with a small brush for a soft smokey effect. And remember, mascara is crucial at any age.

Incorporate blusher into your routine

“Adding blusher can drastically change our look as we age, especially since we may lose the fullness in our cheeks. A hint of color on the cheekbones adds brightness and dimension to the face. Cream formulations offer more youthfulness and an instant glow alongside gentle color.”

Woman applying cream products© Getty Images
Blush plumps up your cheeks in seconds

Use lip liner and lip gloss to enhance lips

Carly emphasizes the importance of lips: “Lip liner has become essential for me post-40, as lip lines can lose definition. A good lip liner can restore shape and revive deflated lips! I suggest pairing it with a lipstick that has a subtle sheen as it reflects light and makes lips look fuller.”

Model having lip liner applied
As we get older, our lip line becomes less prominent. Use a liner to combat this

There’s a perfect nude lipstick for every age

MAC is renowned for its lipstick collection, offering over 100 shades.

MAC has just launched the all new, #MACNudes collection© Getty Images
MAC has just launched the all new, #MACNudes collection

They’ve recently introduced the #MACNudes collection, featuring iconic shades like ‘Peachstock’ and the ‘Spice’ liner, famously worn by supermodel Cindy Crawford.

Carly says: “Not everyone feels at ease with a bold red or vivid pink, and finding the right shade can feel daunting. My advice for discovering your ideal nude is to try on several options. As we age, we may lose color in our complexion, so I recommend selecting a shade of lipstick and lip liner that mirrors your natural lip color.”

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