Okay, let’s talk about mature skin for a minute. As makeup artists, we’ve all worked with clients of different ages and skin types. But mature skin? It requires a whole different level of care and technique. You’ve got to be super intentional with your products, formulas, and application methods to ensure your client looks flawless and feels fabulous.
- Hydration is Key – Prep Like a Pro!
The first step is always prepping the skin. Mature skin tends to be drier, with less elasticity, so hydration is a must. Before even thinking about foundation, you need to nourish the skin. Look for hydrating primers and moisturizers that aren’t too thick but still pack a punch. Hydrating serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid are perfect for plumping up the skin and smoothing out fine lines.
MUAs tip: Use a facial mist to refresh and set the skin before applying makeup. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!
- Go Light on the Foundation – Less is More
When it comes to foundation for mature skin, less is definitely more. You don’t want to go heavy with a thick, full-coverage formula that will settle into fine lines and make the skin look cakey. Instead, opt for a light-to-medium coverage foundation with a natural or dewy finish. Look for formulas that are buildable, so you can apply more product where needed without overdoing it.
MUAs tip: For that airbrushed look, use a damp beauty sponge to apply your foundation – it’ll give you that flawless, blended finish!
- Brighten Under the Eyes – Say Goodbye to Dark Circles
Dark circles can be a real challenge with mature skin. The skin under the eyes is thinner and more prone to dryness, so it’s key to use a hydrating concealer with a brightening effect. Look for products with light-reflecting particles to give that lifted, refreshed appearance.
But—big but here—avoid thick formulas under the eyes. They can accentuate fine lines. Instead, use a lightweight, creamy concealer that won’t settle into creases.
MUAs tip: Apply the concealer in a V-shape, not a half-moon shape. This helps lift the eyes and creates that youthful, wide-awake look.
- Use Cream Products for a Natural Finish
Powder products can sometimes make mature skin look a little dry and emphasize texture, so swapping to cream blushes, highlighters, and bronzers can make a huge difference. Creams add a youthful, dewy glow without settling into fine lines or looking too dry. Plus, they tend to blend seamlessly into the skin, creating a natural, skin-like finish.
MUAs tip: Cream products are also great for people who don’t like that “made-up” look. They blend into the skin so beautifully!
- Highlight Strategic Areas – Lift and Define
You can’t just go full-on matte when working with mature skin, and highlighter is your secret weapon. But, don’t overdo it! Applying a subtle, liquid highlighter to the high points of the face—like the cheekbones, brow bone, and the tip of the nose—will add dimension and lift.
MUAs tip: Focus on the tops of the cheekbones, but avoid applying too much shimmer directly to the under-eye area or around the mouth. Those places can make texture stand out.
- Lashes, Lashes, Lashes
Don’t underestimate the power of a good set of lashes! As we age, lashes can become sparse, so adding some volume and length is a game-changer. Choose individual lashes or a light wispy strip for a natural but bold look.
MUAs tip: Try using a lash curler before applying mascara—this opens up the eyes and adds a little lift!
- Soft, Subtle Eye Makeup
When it comes to eyeshadow, try to avoid heavy, dark shades that can age the eyes. Soft neutrals are your friend here, especially shimmery shades that will make the eyes pop without looking harsh. And definitely steer clear of overly matte formulas—they can make eyelids look dry and accentuate fine lines.
MUAs tip: Apply a soft wash of color with a fluffy brush and blend, blend, blend. For a more lifted look, apply the eyeshadow slightly above the crease rather than directly in the socket.
- Set It Without Caking It – Lightweight Setting Powders
Setting your makeup is important, but you don’t want to bake or apply too much powder on mature skin. Instead, opt for a translucent setting powder that’s finely milled and lightweight. Press it gently into the skin with a damp sponge, focusing only on the areas that tend to get oily (like around the nose or forehead).
MUAs tip: Don’t powder under the eyes too much. It can make the under-eye area look dry and accentuate fine lines. Instead, lightly press powder only in the T-zone if needed.
- Lips – Go for Creamy, Not Matte
Mature lips often lose some fullness and hydration over time, so the key is to keep them looking smooth and plump. Creamy lipsticks or lip glosses are great because they hydrate the lips while giving them a polished, glossy look.
MUAs tip: Line the lips with a nude liner just outside the natural lip line to subtly define them. Just be sure to blend the liner in for a soft, natural effect!
At the end of the day, makeup for mature skin is all about enhancing natural beauty and giving your client confidence. Make sure you’re using the right products and techniques to hydrate, lift, and create that youthful, glowing look.
If you’ve got a mature skin client, always remember: less is more, and blending is your best friend! Work with the skin’s texture, choose light formulas, and focus on strategic application for the most flattering finish.
