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Top Make-Up Hacks to Enhance Your Skin Over 40

Copyright Source: Yueke Tue, May 14, 2024

PHOTO: Yueke

While we often update our wardrobe with the changing seasons, our beauty routine can easily get stuck in a rut. However, adapting your skincare and makeup techniques is essential, especially as you age.

“One of the questions I get asked a lot is how best to wear make-up over the age of 40,” says Carly Utting, senior artist at MAC. She emphasizes that makeup should enhance features to be smoother, plumper, or more defined. As skin tone changes with age, focusing on lips and cheeks becomes crucial.

Skin Prep

Aimee Connolly, makeup artist and founder of Sculpted by Aimee, insists that a great makeup day starts with proper skin prep. “Makeup will apply more seamlessly with the right base products,” she says. Hydration is key, particularly as we age. Use a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid and a ceramide-rich moisturizer to strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture.

Foundation

“Finding the perfect foundation has been like finding my perfect pair of jeans,” says Utting. She recommends opting for a serum-like foundation with skin-caring ingredients that add radiance and treat the skin while worn.

Powder

“When powdering the skin, choose a blurring, finely milled powder,” advises Utting. She suggests MAC Studio Fix Pro Set + Blur Weightless Loose Powder for its ability to softly blur fine lines and create a smooth base. Apply with a medium-sized brush to avoid enhancing fine lines.

Blusher

Utting loves adding a creamy, radiant color to 40+ skin. She suggests MAC Glow Play blushers in So Natural and Blush Please for a beautiful, luminous flush. Connolly prefers Sculpted by Aimee Cream Luxe Blush in Dusty Rose for a natural rosy tint.

Lips

A lip primer can smooth out fine lines, making lips look more even and fuller. Follow with a lip liner two or three shades darker than your natural lip shade to enhance the shape. Utting recommends a soft shine on the lips, using non-sticky glosses to add a beautiful shine.

Eyes

“Long-lasting cream eye products are my go-to for 40+ clients,” says Utting, favoring a soft sheen to brighten and lift the eyes. Connolly suggests using natural bronze eyeshadow and a creamy brown kohl liner for definition. She also recommends an eyeliner duo with a nude shade to brighten the waterline and a switch to brown mascara for a softer look.

By updating your skincare and makeup routine with these tips, you can ensure your beauty regimen evolves with the seasons and your age, helping you look and feel your best.


NEXT: How to transition your skincare routine to spring/summer
Once you've established the perfect skincare routine, it can be tempting to stick with it. However, as seasons change, so should your skincare products. "As the weather transitions from winter to spring and summer, it’s essential to adjust your skincare routine to accommodate changing environmental factors and the needs of your skin," says Dr. Chandni Rajani, advanced aesthetics doctor. If you have specific concerns like eczema or acne, keep the core of your routine the same to avoid aggravating the issue with new products. However, if the change in seasons has affected your skin, here are some adjustments to consider: Change Your Moisturizer “With rising temperatures and increased humidity, opt for a lighter, water-based moisturizer that hydrates without feeling heavy or greasy,” suggests Rajani. Look for formulas with hyaluronic acid or glycerine to provide hydration without clogging pores. Ditch Heavy Serums “Swap out heavy creams and serums for lighter formulations like gels or lotions. These absorb quickly and won’t weigh down your skin,” says Rajani. Lather on SPF Sun protection is crucial year-round but especially important during spring and summer when UV rays are stronger. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily and reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors for extended periods. Avoid Over-Cleansing “With increased sweat and oil production in warmer weather, you may need to cleanse more frequently,” notes Rajani. However, avoid over-cleansing, which can strip the skin of essential oils and disrupt the moisture barrier. Opt for a hydrating, non-foaming cleanser. Protect Against Environmental Stressors “Incorporate antioxidant-rich products into your routine to combat free radical damage from sun exposure,” says Rajani. Vitamin C serums can help brighten the skin, even out tone, and protect against environmental stressors. For acne-prone skin, these serums can also prevent non-hormonal breakouts. Exfoliate Regularly “Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote cell turnover, resulting in a smoother complexion,” says Rajani. The extra sunscreen and oils on your skin in warmer months mean you should be diligent with exfoliation. Choose gentle chemical exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs. Stay Hydrated “Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day,” advises Rajani. Hydration complements topical skincare, keeping your skin plump and healthy-looking. Be extra cautious of your hydration levels during spring and summer, especially on holiday. Keep It Simple “It is best to keep your skincare routine simple, so it can fit into your lifestyle easily,” says Dr. Mazin Al-Khafaji. Avoid the temptation to invest in every trending product. Most skincare products take a couple of months to show results, so choose items you can consistently use over time.

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