The 1 Makeup Tip Every Woman Over 60 Needs To Know

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Applying makeup as an older woman requires much more finesse than for those who are in their 20s and 30s. Folks who are over 60 need to ensure that the products they use aren't actually enhancing their wrinkles, rather than smoothing them out. That's why, as a makeup artist who has done up faces of all ages for over 15 years, I believe the one rule older women need to adhere to is to avoid any matte products at all costs. As we age, we naturally lose moisture and elasticity in our skin, and matte products tend to settle into wrinkles. This is a common makeup mistake that will leave you looking older.

Even when using sheer, glowy products, you should never skip your skincare routine, as you'll want to hydrate as much as possible before applying makeup. Stay away from products that are too occlusive, however, because the overload of oils can cause your eye makeup to smudge. I prefer a nice lightweight moisturizer for the daytime, with nourishing ingredients like vitamin C and peptides. After you've sufficiently moisturized, reach for a foundation that gives your skin a glow, such as IT Cosmetics' CC + Nude Glow or L'Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Healthy Luminous Makeup. When searching for both skincare and makeup products, look for buzz words like "luminous," "hydrating," and "glow." Those will likely give you the youthful, radiant finish you're aiming for, rather than a velvety, aging, matte finish. 

When you have a mature face, the last thing you want is to draw attention to wrinkles, which matte products tend to do. However, this also means staying away from any harsh glittery products. Instead, look for products that give a nice subtle shimmer, which will give you that fresh-faced dewy finish. Foundation itself should be dewy and sheer rather than matte and velvety, but you can add more shimmer after you've applied your foundation. 

For older faces, I like to use cream-based products rather than powder. To add a bit of extra glow, ditch the powder and say hello to liquid blush instead. Apply a dot or two just on top of the apples of your cheeks in an upward angle toward your temples and blend it in with a makeup sponge. Then, layer on highlighter with a very subtle shimmer on the highest points of your cheeks, being sure not to get any in your under-eye area. I also like to add some to the tip and bridge of the nose and the Cupid's bow of the lips.

After you're done with the rest of your makeup, you can apply powder with a very light hand to set everything. Unless the face is super oily, which is rare for older women, I refrain from powdering all over. Instead, I gently go over the T-zone area and underneath the eyes, which is where makeup tends to crease. Remember, it's always better to look a little shiny rather than overly matte when you're 60 and up. Hair health is just as important as well, and you'll want to become familiar with these five haircare tips every woman over 60 needs to know.