BEST MAKEUP FOR OLDER WOMEN: A STEP BY STEP GUIDE THAT WORKS

Makeup for middle-aged individuals serves as a way to “cheat” one’s real age, aiding women in appearing younger than their actual years. With simple makeup tricks, women can effectively conceal dark spots and freckles. Each age group benefits from a distinct makeup style, requiring the makeup artist to possess good taste and an understanding of the preferences within that age bracket. Continue reading to discover the best makeup for hydrating and improving mature skin, ranging from crease-free liquid foundations to anti-wrinkle lipsticks and dark circle concealers designed to brighten the under-eye area.

OUR TOP PICKS FOR MAKEUP FOR WOMEN OVER 50

SKIN CARE PREP

Celebrity makeup artist Lisa Aharon emphasizes hydration as the key to flawless makeup for women over 50.  ‘The secret is healthy, glowing skin,’ she says.  Before applying makeup, she recommends using a sheet mask or hydrating serum to deeply nourish the skin.  A luxurious cream, oil, or leave-on mask completes the process,  promoting a radiant, youthful complexion.

For brightening the eyes, opt for lightweight brightening creams. It’s important to avoid anything too heavy, as heavy makeup may slide and settle into fine lines. When applying skincare products, you can use your fingers or hands for a gentle touch, ensuring even distribution. Alternatively, using a brush can also achieve effective application. Whether using your hands or a brush, the key is to maintain a light touch to prevent makeup from settling into fine lines.

Masks:

  • Hydrating Sheet Masks: Look for sheet masks containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, which help attract and retain moisture in the skin.
  • Hydrogel Masks: These masks are similar to sheet masks but have a jelly-like consistency that adheres closely to the skin, allowing for deeper hydration.

Serum:

  • Hyaluronic Acid Serums: Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin, making it a great choice for hydration.
  • Vitamin C Serums: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from sun damage and promotes collagen production, which can help improve skin firmness and elasticity.

Cream:

  • Rose Tea Eye Cream: This eye cream provides a light and airy texture, effectively plumping, hydrating, and brightening the skin around the eyes.

PRIMER

Selecting the appropriate primer can significantly diminish the appearance of fine lines and pores while prolonging the longevity of your makeup. It is suggested to gently brush on a thin layer of primer once your skincare products have absorbed. Allow it to settle for a minute before applying foundation.

Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Hydrating Primer: This lightweight, oil-free formula is packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to plump and smooth the skin, providing a perfect canvas for makeup application. It also minimizes the appearance of pores and fine lines, leaving a radiant, youthful finish.

Tula Skincare Prime of Your Life Smoothing and Firming Treatment Primer: This primer is a multi-tasker that combines skincare benefits with makeup prep. It contains peptides and antioxidants to help firm and brighten the skin, while blurring imperfections and minimizing the appearance of wrinkles. The creamy formula also hydrates and nourishes the skin, leaving it feeling smooth and supple.

FOUNDATION

Foundation cream designed specifically for older women addresses the unique skincare needs that come with aging. Formulated with a focus on hydration, anti-aging properties, and skin elasticity, these foundations cater to mature skin to provide a radiant and youthful appearance. Many foundations for older women incorporate ingredients like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants to moisturize and protect the skin, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Moreover, these foundations often offer buildable coverage, allowing women to achieve a natural and even complexion while taking into consideration the changing texture and tone of aging skin. 

L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Radiant Serum Foundation:

Experience the perfect blend of hydration and sun protection with this weightless foundation featuring SPF 50. Achieve a flawless finish with buildable coverage that effortlessly conceals imperfections. Embrace the popularity of this product, hailed as one of the best full-coverage foundations.

Maybelline New York Instant Age Rewind Perfector 4-in-1 Makeup: This multi-tasking product is a foundation, concealer, brightener, and moisturizer all in one. The hydrating formula is also comfortable to wear all day long.

EYES & BROWS

Specialized eye makeup and brow techniques can enhance and accentuate features, creating a refreshed and youthful appearance. Eye shadows with softer, neutral tones can bring out the eyes without emphasizing fine lines, while mascara and eyeliner applied with a subtle touch provide definition without appearing harsh. 

For brows, shaping and filling them with precision can frame the face and lend a more polished look. As the eyebrows may naturally thin with age, using products that mimic the appearance of hair, such as pencils or brow gels, helps achieve a fuller and well-groomed result. 

Victoria Beckham Beauty: The velvety stick shadow, offering eight hours of wear, contains collagen infusion to promote a smooth and firm texture on the eyelids.

Anastasia Beverly Hills: An iconic favorite for achieving natural-looking hair strokes, Anastasia’s ultra-sleek pencil effortlessly glides on, ensuring a smudge-resistant finish.

COLOR & SHIMMER

In the next step of the beauty routine, adding color becomes crucial, providing a significant impact. Particularly for mature skin, cream blush is recommended for its hydrating properties, contributing to a more youthful look. Application involves tapping it onto the apples of the cheeks and blending it out cautiously with fingertips or a brush, avoiding contouring-like placement to prevent an aging effect. The expert advises against using bronzers for contouring, proposing a horizontal application on the forehead, cheeks, and nose bridge, with a light touch along the jawline.

For women over 50, shimmer is discouraged, as it tends to highlight skin issues and aging. Instead, the expert advocates for products with subtle luminosity, which attract light and give the skin a dewy, moist, and, most importantly, youthful appearance.

Jones Road: This versatile balm effortlessly adds color to both lips and cheeks, enriched with hydrating jojoba seed oil to impart a gorgeous, sun-kissed glow to the skin.

Westman Atelier: Infused with collagen and hyaluronic acid-boosting properties, the creamy blush stick not only imparts a natural flush of color to lips and cheeks but also stimulates the production of essential skin components.

FINISHING TOUCH

A touch of powder can provide a flawless finishing touch if applied with discretion. A light dusting through the center of the face can result in a beautiful finish, although it’s advised to use it sparingly and skip it if your skin tends to be dry.

When setting the look, the expert expresses a preference for mist over setting spray, especially when aiming for a fresh and dewy appearance. Opting for a soothing rosewater mist to seal the look provides an extra touch of dewy freshness at the end.

Mally Beauty: Mally Beauty is a cosmetics brand known for its innovative and high-performance beauty products. Renowned for its long-lasting formulations and celebrity makeup artist Mally Roncal’s expertise, the brand offers a diverse range of makeup essentials that cater to various beauty needs and preferences.

Mario Badescu: Mario Badescu is a skincare brand celebrated for its effective and affordable skincare solutions. Founded by a Romanian-born dermatologist, the brand focuses on creating accessible products that address a variety of skin concerns, gaining popularity for its simple yet powerful approach to achieving healthy and radiant skin.

CONCLUSION

From skincare to choosing the right products, it’s all about enhancing natural beauty and feeling confident at every stage of life. Remember, a little goes a long way, and embracing a simple routine can bring out the best in your timeless beauty.

Discover 15 Best Concealers of 2023 to Hide Imperfections

A high-quality concealer is an essential item in your makeup collection. Why? Simply put, it has endless benefits. Whether you want to enhance your cupid’s bow with a luminous highlight, conceal acne scars, or most importantly, hide those pesky dark circles under your eyes, a reliable concealer is a must-have. Unlike fleeting makeup fads, a good concealer is a long-lasting investment that will never go out of style. It’s also small enough to carry in your purse for touch-ups during a night out. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which concealer to choose. In this article, we will discover the 15 best concealers that will help you achieve a flawless look by hiding those pesky imperfections. Whether you’re looking for a full-coverage concealer or a lightweight option, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s take the look and find the perfect concealer for you!

Best Overall Concealer: NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

Look no further than the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer if you need a new holy grail product! With the ability to cover dark circles flawlessly and never separate or crease, this formula will make it appear like you’ve had a full night’s sleep (even if you haven’t). For a bonus, swipe it on the top of your nose and around your mouth for an instant complexion-brightening effect. Not only is this product suitable for all skin types, but it also boasts a long-wearing and non-creasing formula that provides excellent coverage and a natural finish. While it may be priced higher than some other concealers, its top-notch quality and smooth blendability make it worth every penny. Don’t wait any longer – invest in the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard today and experience its game-changing benefits for yourself!

Best Drugstore Concealer: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Multi-Use Concealer

The Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Multi-Use Concealer has been widely praised by customers for its excellent coverage of dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines, all while leaving a natural finish. The concealer is easy to apply and features a unique sponge applicator that makes it simple to target specific areas. Customers also love that it doesn’t settle into creases or feel heavy on the skin. Despite some reviews mentioning that the product can run out quickly with frequent use, the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Multi-Use Concealer is an affordable and effective option that customers highly recommend for its coverage and ease of use. With its youth-boosting properties from goji berry and fragrance-free formula, it’s a great choice for those on a budget. The only downside is its limited shade range.

Best Crease-Free Concealer: Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

The Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer is highly praised by customers for its long-lasting formula that provides high coverage without creasing or settling into fine lines. Its smooth, creamy texture is easy to blend and build up for customizable coverage. Despite its thick consistency, this concealer is recommended for its effectiveness in covering blemishes and dark circles. The product contains shea and mango butter to add hydration and licorice root to prevent creasing. It is waterproof and available in a wide range of shades to suit all skin tones. The Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer is a dermatologist-tested, non-creasing, long-wearing concealer that provides a brightening effect and is perfect for those looking for a flawless finish.

Best Splurge Concealer: Dior Forever Skin Correct Concealer

Looking for a full-coverage concealer that provides long-lasting, natural-looking results? Look no further than Dior’s Forever Skin Correct Concealer. Formulated with iris, wild pansy, and nasturtium extracts, this creamy concealer can blur pores, reduce redness, and lock in moisture for up to 24 hours. While a bit more blending may be required, the lightweight and non-cakey formula ensures excellent coverage for dark circles, blemishes, and redness without fading or creasing. With a range of shades available, you can easily find your perfect match for a flawless finish. Although it may come at a higher price point, the quality and effectiveness of this product are well worth the investment. Join the many satisfied customers and splurge on the Dior Forever Skin Correct Concealer for a truly luxurious makeup experience.

Best Concealer for Dark Circles: Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Flawless Wear Concealer

The Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Flawless Wear Concealer is highly recommended by customers for its long-wearing, high-coverage formula. It is said to provide natural-looking coverage that doesn’t settle into fine lines or creases. Customers love that it is waterproof and sweat-resistant, making it perfect for all-day wear. Some reviewers note that the product can be a bit thick and difficult to blend, but it provides excellent coverage for blemishes, dark circles, and other imperfections. This silky-textured formula earned top scores for ease of use and spreadability and got a perfect score for texture. So why wait? Give this “magic wand” a try and even out your skin tone with ease.

Best Concealer for Blemishes: NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Bare With Me Concealer Serum

The NYX Bare with Me Concealer is a customer favorite for its affordable price and excellent coverage. This lightweight concealer is said to provide natural-looking coverage that doesn’t feel heavy or cakey on the skin. Clients enjoy the range of shades available, making it easy to find a perfect match for their skin tone. While some reviewers note that the product can crease and fade throughout the day, many others praise its long-lasting wear and ability to hide blemishes, dark circles, and other imperfections. Overall, the NYX Professional Makeup Bare with Me Concealer is a great choice for those looking for an affordable, high-quality concealer that delivers excellent coverage and a natural finish.

Best Concealer for Red Spots: L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer

The L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer is a highly recommended product for those looking for a budget-friendly option. Buyers rave about its creamy consistency and full coverage, which can hide blemishes, dark circles, and other imperfections with ease. The product is also praised for its extensive shade range, which makes it easy to find a perfect match for any skin tone. But, some reviewers note that the product can be a bit difficult to blend and can settle into fine lines or creases if not set with powder. Overall, the L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer is a great choice for those looking for an affordable concealer that provides great coverage and a natural finish.

Best Concealer for Dry Skin: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Concealer

The Neutrogena Healthy Skin Radiant Brightening Cream Concealer has received positive reviews for its lightweight and non-greasy formula that offers great coverage and lasts all day. Reviewers appreciate the added hyaluronic acid that provides hydration and a smooth, radiant finish. While some note that the shade range could be improved, the product is highly recommended for its effectiveness and affordability. The stick formula is easy to apply, making it great for beginners, and the hydrating formula is ideal for dry, flaky skin. If you’re looking for a your-skin-but-better finish that also provides hydration and coverage, the Neutrogena Healthy Skin Radiant Brightening Cream Concealer is worth a try.

Best Concealer for Oily Skin: e.l.f. Hydrating Camo Concealer

The e.l.f. Hydrating Camo Concealer is concerned for its hydrating formula that provides excellent coverage. It is said to be lightweight and non-cakey, making it easy to apply and blend. Customers love that it doesn’t settle into fine lines or creases, and it provides a natural finish that lasts all day without fading. Reviewers note that the product is affordable and comes in a range of shades, making it easy to find a perfect match for their skin tone.

Best Concealer for Dark Skin Tones: Dermablend Cover Care Full Coverage Concealer

Dermablend is the ideal brand for anyone who is looking for a hybrid between makeup and skincare. This concealer provides full coverage for blemishes, dark circles, and redness without feeling heavy or cakey. The applicator is easy to use and hygienic. The concealer lasts all day without creasing or fading, and it is transfer-resistant. The only downside is the limited shade range. Nevertheless, this hydrating, waterproof, and transfer-resistant concealer is worth a try. It contains sunflower seed oil and vegetable glycerin to keep skin hydrated, and it is 100% vegan and made without alcohol and parabens. The range of shades is also commendable, including olive to deep, beautiful ebony, with warm undertones that offer a warm finish without looking too red, orange, gray, or ashy.

Best Long-Wear Concealer: L’Oréal Paris Infallible Full Wear Concealer

When it comes to affordable long-wear makeup, L’Oréal’s Infallible line is tough to beat. Customers love that it blends easily without settling into fine lines or creasing, and it works well for covering blemishes, dark circles, and other imperfections. Although some reviewers note that the shade range could be improved, the product is highly recommended for its effectiveness and affordability. With a long-wear formula that contains silica and glycerin for a smooth finish and is waterproof, this budget-friendly concealer is worth trying if you’re looking for a full-coverage concealer that stays put all day. Just be aware that it contains fragrance and dries quickly, so blend immediately after application.

Best Waterproof Concealer: Maybelline Super Stay Full Coverage

Looking for a solid waterproof concealer that won’t break the bank? Maybelline has you covered. Customers appreciate that it covers blemishes, dark spots, and acne scars without feeling heavy or cakey. Although it may be difficult to blend and may oxidize over time, the product is still recommended for its effectiveness. Additionally, Maybelline’s Super Stay Concealer is a great option for a waterproof concealer that gives lightweight coverage and lasts up to 24 hours. It’s also loaded with moisturizing ingredients that help it go on smoothly without caking.

Best Matte Concealer: Wet n Wild Photo Focus Concealer

The Wet n Wild Photo Focus Concealer has received mostly positive reviews. It is a great budget-friendly option for those in need of a reliable concealer. It comes with a doe-foot applicator for easy application and is said to provide long-lasting coverage for dark circles and blemishes. The lightweight formula is also a plus. While the shade range could be better, the product is highly recommended for its effectiveness and affordability. If you’re in the market for an affordable concealer that gets the job done, the Wet n Wild Photo Focus Concealer is worth checking out.

Best Multi-Use Concealer: Too Faced Born This Way Super Coverage Multi-Use Concealer

The Too Faced Born This Way Super Coverage Multi-Use Concealer is a popular choice for its full coverage and lightweight formula that blends effortlessly, leaving a natural finish. It can be used to conceal dark circles, blemishes, and imperfections. Although it may crease in fine lines, it has long-lasting wear and is recommended for its effectiveness. The wide range of shades is great for all skin tones, and the hydrating, vegan formula is a bonus. It has a great coverage that blends easily and provides a natural-looking finish. It is a bit pricey, but the product is effective and worth the investment

Best Brightening Concealer: e.l.f. 16HR Camo Concealer

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly concealer that provides full coverage and long-lasting wear, the E.L.F. Cosmetics 16HR Camo Concealer is a great option to try. It is long-lasting, and provides full coverage without looking cakey or heavy on the skin. The formula may need a bit more blending, but it is an effective and affordable choice for those on a budget. This concealer may be budget-friendly, but the pigmentation stands up to its expensive counterparts. If you’re looking for full coverage that’ll stay put all day, the e.l.f. Cosmetics 16hr Camo Concealer has got you covered. The lightweight formula corrects and perfects without looking creasy or building up increases. It is praised for its ability to cover dark circles, blemishes, and other imperfections without looking cakey or heavy on the skin. Some reviewers claim that the product can be difficult to blend and may settle into fine lines, but overall, it is recommended for its effectiveness and affordability.

How to Find the Best Concealer for You?

It’s crucial to find the right formula and shade that suits your specific needs. Here’s a guide to help you out:

✔️ Shade: To cover undereye circles, go for a shade that is one or two tones lighter than your skin tone. Peach undertones are ideal for neutralizing dark brown spots, while green- or yellow-tinted formulas work best for covering acne and redness.

✔️ Finish: For dark circles, use a concealer with a radiant or luminizing finish. For acne and dark spots, choose a long-lasting matte finish. For mature skin, avoid anything too shimmery or heavy, and instead, go for a medium-coverage liquid concealer applied sparingly.

✔️ Formula and coverage: Liquid formulas are preferable for concealing around the eyes, while stick concealers are better for blemishes and imperfections like sun spots, hyperpigmentation, and age spots, as they are designed to stay in place. Creams, on the other hand, can settle into fine lines and wrinkles.

How to Apply Concealer Like a Pro?

When it comes to applying concealer to your face, there are three main ways to do it – using a brush, a sponge, or your fingers. Each method will give you different levels of coverage. For the greatest coverage, a dense brush is recommended. Using a brush gives you more control over the area you’re covering, which means you can conceal your blemish more effectively.

A sponge can be used by applying a small amount of concealer to the area you want to cover and then lightly wetting the sponge to gently tap the concealer into your skin. Yet, some of the product may get absorbed into the sponge, so you may need to add another layer for full coverage. Using a sponge will provide a natural finish as it helps your makeup sink into your skin.

Using your fingers is best for areas where the product can easily crease, like under your eyes or around your mouth, since you can blend it out easily. For under-eye concealer, it is recommended to begin immediately after applying eye cream, using your ring finger to press the concealer in, only where you see darkness, and blend it seamlessly with a patting motion.