Makeup Mistakes of the over 50’s

Not using an appropriate moisturiser for a mature skin type.

Remedy - The correct moisturiser should be rich and creamy, easy to apply without dragging the skin and is absorbed into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. This improves the overall texture of the skin and makeup looks better when applied. Drier skin is likely to wrinkle more quickly than moist well hydrated skin.

Wearing too much foundation to cover lines and imperfections actually emphasises them.

Remedy - The best thing to do is to use an effective skin care range to improve the overall look and texture and then apply a lightweight creamy foundation with light reflecting ingredients for a smooth and flawless finish. Alternatively use a good quality mineral makeup and apply sparingly. 

Wearing a foundation that is a couple of shades darker than the natural skin tone in the hope of creating a healthy and glowing complexion.

Remedy - This may actually emphasise the lines and draw attention to the problems. Instead use a colour as close to your natural skin tone as possible and then use blushers and contouring products to provide a healthy bloom.

Wearing a dark lip liner to make lips look fuller.

Remedy – Moisturise the lips well and pay particular attention to any vertical lines around the mouth. This will help to plump out the tissues and make the lips appear fuller. Apply a lip liner the same shade as your lips before applying a coat of lipstick, blot with a tissue and apply a second coat.

Wearing the same shade of lipstick you wore in your twenties and thirties.

Remedy - Skin and hair colour changes sometimes quite dramatically over the years so choose colours that tone well with your skin and hair colour. Darker shades have a harsh effect so opt for warmer lighter shades.

Wearing too much eye makeup.

Remedy - Colours should be toned down, avoid pearlised shadows that emphasise creases and lines and wear a softer shade of eyeliner and mascara.

Over plucking eyebrows.

Remedy – This may have been the fashion when younger but unfortunately for some the eyebrows don’t grow back. Use a special eyebrow pencil or powder in a colour that matches the hair and apply in small feathery strokes.

Bushy eyebrows that are never plucked can make the eyes look heavy and hooded. The texture of the hairs becomes coarse with age and this makes them appear thicker.

Remedy - Plucking the brows into a natural arch opens up the area and has a lifting effect on the eyes.