Look Fabulous at Any Age: Makeup Tips For Women Over 40

by Lisa Ledoux
Close-up portrait of a 40 years old blue eyed woman. She touching her face and looking at camera.

As we mature, it’s important to be mindful of the changes in our skin and how that should affect the makeup we use, especially as women reach the age of 40 and over.

And in particular, for achieving a look that is both age-appropriate and flattering.

And for an easier simplified LIFE-

-please print the free makeup checklist provided by Ledoux Lagoon to help make the entire makeup process easier, and less confusing, so you’ll be more likely to keep up with your makeup routine-

It’s fillable, downloadable, free, and provides a list of basic tools and makeup to start a new routine!

Why Makeup?

Wearing makeup can be an empowering experience for women at any age, as it can help enhance confidence and vitality.

Not only does makeup have an immediate effect on appearance by creating a polished and stylish look, but it also helps to lessen the effects of aging by emphasizing features that can be diminished due to age, such as dark circles around the eyes or uneven coloring of the skin.

And because makeup can make one feel more confident in their own beauty, it amplifies that confidence into other activities such as work and social outings.

Wearing makeup has the power to show that age is nothing but a number; with confidence and thoughtfulness, it’s possible to remain radiant regardless of how many years have passed.

A Few “Pre-Tip” Tips- Prepping the Face

It’s no secret that the better your skin looks, the better your makeup will look.

beautiful young african american woman applying makeup at home

But with so many products and techniques available, it can be confusing to know where to start when it comes to prepping your skin for makeup.

Pre-Tip #1

Take advantage of all the age-defying products designed for mature women.

It’s essential to use products that are specifically created for mature skin, as these will be better suited for your skincare needs than general products. For example, opt for an anti-aging moisturizer with SPF protection and collagen-boosting ingredients like hyaluronic acid.

Pre-Tip #2

Make sure your skin is clean before applying any makeup. Use a mild cleanser and warm water to wash your face, and be sure to pat it dry with a soft towel.

Beautiful woman washing her face with water in a white and wood inspired modern bathroom

By starting off with a clean canvas, you can ensure that the makeup you apply will last longer, giving you that perfect look for the day.

For THE BEST skincare routine see Ledoux Lagoon’s free, printable, no-sign-up Korean Skincare Routine.

And for further assistance, check out our free, printable The Skincare Routine of Korean Women: What You Need To Know, to help you get started with the routine, and Unlock the Fountain of Youth: 34 Best Korean Beauty Products for 2023!

See? It’s not hard being beautiful! 😉

Pre-Tip #3

Apply a moisturizer to your skin to help create a smooth canvas for makeup application.

Did you know moisturizing your skin is one of the best investments you can make for your makeup routine?

By applying a gentle, hydrating moisturizer to your skin before you start getting ready, you will be left with a smooth canvas that makes makeup glide on like butter!

Not only will you achieve a beautiful finished look, but using a moisturizer is also essential in keeping your skin looking youthful and vibrant.

Plus it adds an extra boost of hydration that may help make-up stay put all day.

Who doesn’t love starting their morning with the perfect base? Check out Hydrate Winter Skin With These Top 15 Moisturizers for the best hydrating moisturizers.

Reach for your favorite moisturizer and get glowing!

Pre-Tip #4

Use a primer before applying foundation or any other type of makeup. This will help the makeup last longer and look better throughout the day.

Knowing the right makeup tricks can help keep you looking fabulous all day long.

With that in mind, one expert-level tip you should add to your makeup routine right away is to always use a primer before applying foundation or any other type of makeup.

Primers are specially formulated to create a smooth base for your look, so it’s worth getting into the habit of using one every day.

This extra step will help whatever you layer on afterward stay put and not fade away as quickly.

Not only that, but primers may even help protect against environmental damage, making them a great addition to every beauty routine!

Beautiful older woman applying concealer on face while looking in mirror and getting ready in the bathroom

Pre-Tip #5

Be careful not to use too much foundation or concealer – a little goes a long way!

When applying foundation and concealer, it is important to remember that less is more!

Using too much will result in an unnatural, heavy-looking finish.

Instead, opt for a light-to-medium coverage rather than caking your face in the product – it will look much more natural and flatter your features.

And if you’re still worried about minor blemishes, use as little concealer as possible and let your foundation cover the rest – after all, a little bit of coverage can go a long way!

Pre-Tip #6

Set your makeup with setting spray or powder to keep it in place during special outings.

Portrait of attractive young woman applying spray water on face, posing isolated over beige background

The key to making your makeup last is to set it with either a very light dusting of powder, or a setting spray.

These will help your makeup stay in place and prevent it from slipping down on a hot or humid day.

Setting sprays can often include alcohol and are best used for special occasions where you may be wearing heavier makeup such as a concert or a reception.

For everyday use setting powder will work just fine as long as you remember to dust it sparingly and do not cake your face.

There are plenty of options out there for both products, so make sure to find one that works for you and your skin type!

Now For Your Flawless Beauty Tips!

1. Undereye Concealer

Applying under-eye concealer may seem daunting, but don’t let it be! With the right technique, you can achieve a natural and refreshed look.

Half face portrait of a young woman posing with concealer under her eyes on white background.
  • When picking a shade, don’t choose something that is too light – this will draw attention to any wrinkles and creases while creating an unnatural ring around your eyes.
  • Instead, go with a shade that matches your skin tone or is 1 shade lighter, and don’t be afraid to mix two shades together.
  • Lightly blend the product onto your under-eye area using either your fingers or a small beauty blender for a subtle finish.
  • For added protection during the day, seal in your makeup with an extra dusting of setting powder!

2. Use a foundation that is slightly lighter than your skin tone to even out your complexion

For a healthy-looking complexion, it’s important to choose the right foundation.

The best way to do this is to select a shade that is slightly lighter than your natural skin tone.

Beautiful young girl with natural nude make-up. Photo taken in studio

Doing this helps create a more even and balanced complexion.

When applying foundation be sure to not use a matte formula, as this will make your skin look dry and dull, and will make your wrinkles more pronounced.

Additionally, you’ll want to consider switching from powder foundation to a liquid or cream option for a youthful, glowing, vibrant appearance.

For oily skin, try mixing a combination of both, but start with the matte or powder foundation as a light base and gently blend in some liquid to the dryer and higher areas such as the cheeks, chin, and forehead.

The best way to apply your foundation is with a foundation brush, which helps it blend in seamlessly for an effortless finish.

3. Apply a nude eyeshadow all over your lid, and then use a darker shade in the crease

Flat lay of broken shimmering brown and nude eye shadow palette on a beige background.

Want to know a great way to instantly brighten your eyes? Grab some nude eyeshadow!

Apply nude eyeshadow all over your lid as a base to create a lovely natural shade.

This looks great with any skin tone and is an easy way to make your eyes look bigger.

Next, add a darker shade that’s in your preferred color palette onto the eyelid crease for added depth, drama, and definition.

Last, dab and blend a highlighting eye shadow to the brow bone, or just under the arch and downward slop of your brow.

This combination of shades will give the perfect balance between lighting and color for those beautiful eye makeup looks in no time!

4. Line your upper lash line with dark eyeliner, and extend it slightly at the outer corners for a sophisticated cat eye look

Applying a pared back eyeliner mature woman close up

For a fun, flirty eye look that lifts your eyes, start with your most flattering eyeliner.

You can easily figure out what colors look best with your eyes by consulting a color wheel in our How to Use a Color Wheel for Professional-Looking Makeup Results guide.

Line the top of your lashes and extend it slightly at the outer corners for that sultry appeal. If you’re after a slightly softer line, or just want to play around, use eyeshadow or pencil eyeliner instead.

Do not take the eyeliner directly to the end of the outer corners. Stop and do the lift just before you get to the outer edge. This will give the illusion of larger doe eyes.

Don’t be afraid to experiment; you can always smudge or remove a mistake until you get the look you crave!

5. Curl your lashes and apply mascara

Happy African senior woman using eyelash curler - People beauty and wellness lifestyle concept

Applying mascara is an essential part of any beauty routine.

To get the best look, use an eyelash primer for a full look without the clump. Before applying the mascara, use a lash curler to create volume and length.

This will help the mascara stick better, and your eyes will pop with color and depth.

When it’s time to apply, use small, gentle strokes from the base of your lash all the way up to reach every last lash you can.

And finally, use a spoolie to brush out any clumps once your mascara has dried (clumpy mascara may trend in some circles but it has no place in a sophisticated woman’s makeup routine!)

6. Fill in your brows using a pencil or powder that is one shade lighter than your natural hair color

Young Latina putting on makeup in front of the mirror with her eye line pencil

Filling in your brows is an easy way to add shape and definition to your face. The trick? Make sure you choose the correct product and color.

Start by selecting a pencil or powder that is one shade lighter than your natural hair color. This will create a subtle lift and give you a more polished look without going overboard.

Then, use the pencil or powder to create small, feathery strokes in areas where your brows need more density or definition.

Once they’re filled in, use a spoolie for a final finish spiff, brushing naturally with your brow hair direction.

With these simple tips, you can achieve natural-looking brows that help to frame and enhance your features!

7. Use blush on the apples of your cheeks, and highlight the top of the cheekbone

Professional makeup artist applies blush on the face of the woman.

Spice up your makeup routine with the perfect blush!

Adding a shade of peach, florals, or berries, depending on your skin color, onto the apples of your cheeks will instantly lift your complexion and give you a natural-looking healthy flush that takes no time at all to achieve!

Jazz up your look today by adding a pop of color and a luminous glow with this simple yet stunning blush and highlight combo.

Use a dab of light-reflecting highlighter above the apple of the cheek, as seen in the image, for that healthy, youthful glow.

8. Applying lipstick can be lots of fun, with just a few simple tips to keep in mind.

A middle-aged businesswoman repairs makeup in a car.

First, use a deep – but not too dark – color with a glossy finish.

Bright shades are best; stay away from nudes or other really pale shades as they can make you look more washed out and less vibrant.

Next use a lip liner to line your lips before applying the color, to keep the lip gloss in place, and to get the most pristine application possible.

Lastly, use blotting paper throughout the day if necessary before reapplying lip liner and gloss to keep your makeup looking fresh.

Stay away from excessive use of lip gloss as it will give a heavy, fake look rather than giving them that sought-after youthful appearance.

And Be Sure To…

Mini fridge for cosmetic products on wooden vanity table

A mini makeup fridge can provide multiple benefits to your routine.

By keeping your cosmetics cool, you can prolong the shelf life of your favorite products while protecting them from bacteria and other environmental contaminants.

Not only that, a mini makeup fridge is incredibly convenient and easy to use.

They are also lightweight and portable – perfect for taking on trips or using them in multiple locations.

With a mini makeup fridge, you’ll be able to store all of your cosmetics in one neat and organized place – and btw, did we mention how glamorous you will be just by owning one?!? 🙂

Conclusion

Taking the time to follow these simple tips will ensure that your makeup always looks its best – no matter what the occasion!

With a flawless foundation and a sweet lip gloss, you’ll be ready to take on whatever the day throws your way.

Just remember to start with clean skin, apply primer, and use a light hand when applying foundation or concealer.

Attractive mature woman applying red lipstick and looking in mirror

Thanks for Reading!

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