How to Apply Makeup for Mature Skin

The makeup you wore at 15 is probably not the same makeup you wore at 26 or 35 or 43 and onward. Trends change but so does our skin, and when things like texture and fine lines become more prominent, if you’re not wearing the right makeup, those common skin concerns may look more noticeable. 

If you think that achieving a gorgeous, glowing makeup look is reserved for young folks, think again. A fabulous face of makeup and a radiant complexion is possible at any age — you just have to take product choices and application techniques into consideration. If you’re ready to master makeup for mature skin, keep reading to learn how to perfect makeup for people 50 and older. 

What Is the Best Way to Apply Makeup for Mature Skin?

To make your mature skin glow without looking like it's smothered in makeup, here are seven tips to consider for your makeup application on mature skin. 

1. Less Is More When It Comes to the Eyes

As you age, it’s common to see wrinkles and sagging skin in the eye area. Because of this, using dark makeup near the eyes only accentuates signs of aging so we suggest skipping dark, shimmery and dramatic eyeshadows on the lower lash line. Instead, apply them to the lid, and opt for some simple eyeliner on the lower lash line. 

2. Opt for Brown Eyeliner Over Black

Brown eyeliner is great for creating soft makeup looks, and it’s an excellent choice for people with mature skin because it’s not as harsh as black. L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Satin Glide Eyeliner with Mineral Pigments in Brown is a great choice for mature skin because it has a smooth, creamy formula that doesn’t tug at the eyes. It’s also a waterproof formula that’s suitable for sensitive eyes. 

3. Use Eyeliner to Elongate Your Eyes 

Eyeliner can also be a powerful tool to create the illusion of bigger, more wide awake eyes when used properly on the upper lash line. An effective way to create the appearance of bright, elongated eyes is to create a winged eyeliner shape in the outer corner. 

Use liquid eyeliner, like L’Oréal Paris Infallible Grip Precision Felt Waterproof Eyeliner in Brown, for a precise application and follow it up with a lengthening mascara, like L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Instant Lift Washable Mascara, to define your lashes.

4. Be Careful What Moisturizer You Wear Under Foundation

While opting for rich, deeply hydrating moisturizers is great for mature skin, be careful about using super heavy creams when you’ll be wearing foundation on top, as emollient moisturizers may make your foundation pill or run.

A great moisturizer to layer under makeup is the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Day Lotion SPF 30. It’s a deeply hydrating pick that isn’t heavy or greasy — and it contains SPF protection, which is essential for all skin types, especially mature skin. Not to mention it’s formulated with vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and pro-retinol to address fine lines and wrinkles.

5. Opt for Lightweight, Hydrating Foundation Formulas 

After applying a lightweight moisturizer, continue with a hydrating foundation formula that can be built up for more coverage as needed, like L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect 4-in-1 Tinted Face Balm Foundation. Its creamy, balm-like formula evens out the complexion in a natural-looking way, and it feels comfortable on the skin. 

Another option that we recommend for mature skin is L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Makeup Radiant Serum Foundation with SPF 50. It has a hydrating, formula infused with a hydrating serum that doesn’t settle into fine lines, and it has SPF 50. 

6. Blend Your Foundation With a Makeup Sponge

If you’re wondering: how can I make my foundation look smoother with mature skin, use a makeup sponge to apply your liquid complexion products like foundation, tinted moisturizer and cream blush. Damp makeup sponges are great because they soak up excess product, and ensure that your skin won’t look cakey or that your makeup won't accentuate fine lines, wrinkles, or texture. Plus, using one is a foolproof way to achieve a streak-free foundation application. 

7. Don’t Skip Blush

The beauty community has been singing the praises of blush for the last few years, and for good reason. Blush is highly effective at giving the face dimension and vibrancy, and it brings a liveliness to your complexion. Try L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Radiant Satin Blush with Camellia Oil; it’s a satin cream to powder formula that’s easy to blend onto the skin with a fluffy blush brush. It also contains fine shimmer particles that give the complexion a gorgeous, youthful, natural-looking glow.

Should Mature Skin Use Dewy or Matte Foundation?

Mature skin should opt for dewy foundation because the hydrating finish is more flattering on fine lines, texture and wrinkles, whereas matte foundations can appear dry and cakey. Additionally, as you age, your skin also gets drier, and dewy foundations are much more moisturizing and flattering on the skin than their matte counterparts.

What Foundation Does Not Settle Into Wrinkles?

Age Perfect Makeup Radiant Serum Foundation with SPF 50 is a lightweight foundation with the consistency of a serum. The formula does not settle into fine lines or wrinkles, which is very optimal for mature skin. Generally, lightweight foundations will be less likely to settle into wrinkles and fine lines, but do your research before purchasing to make sure. 

Next: 5 Places to Apply Bronzer for Sun-Kissed-Looking Skin

Photographer: Stephanie Price, Photo Assistant: Thomas Miller, Digi Tech: Sergio Colon, Art Director: Hannah Packer, Creative Producer: Becca Solovay, Content Director: Shalwah Evans, Visual Designer: Sarah Duvivier, Makeup Artist: Kelly Bellevue, Hair Stylist: Akihisa Yamaguchi, Wardrobe Stylist: Rika Watanabe, Wardrobe Assistant: Fausti, Model: Jacky Lee