Since turning 50, my makeup preferences have shifted dramatically. Gone are the days of smoky eyes and bold lips; now I gravitate toward products that enhance without making me look older. Here are the everyday standouts winning spots in my makeup bag and beyond.
Makeup Tips for Women Over 50
Vivian Baker, a makeup artist who has worked with A-listers such as Bette Midler and Blake Lively, encourages clients over 50 to keep experimenting with makeup. "Most women don't realize they've subconsciously opted out of the fun of makeup as they've aged. We get caught up in 'can' and 'cannot,'" she says.
Don't be fooled by reels promising complete transformations, says makeup artist Kerry-Lou Hensen. "One of the biggest pitfalls is being influenced by unrealistic before-and-after images on social media. Lighting, angles, expressions, and often retouching, can create the illusion of dramatic results that simply aren't achievable," she says. Hensen suggests lightweight skin tints, cream blushes, and soft blendable eyeliners for aging skin.
Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Sunkissed Glow Bronzer
This light, smooth cream-based bronzer can be applied to both face and body with a brush, providing a natural glow. It comes in four shades; I keep a lighter hue for winter and a darker shade for summer. Priced from $59.
Nars The Multiple
After realizing powder blush sinks into wrinkles, I switched to this velvety cream blush. It swipes onto cheekbones, eyelids, and lips. I love the peachy pink Orgasm Crave shade. Priced from $40.
Jones Road Miracle Balm
This multi-purpose balm works as a highlighter, bronzer, blush, or tinted moisturizer. It smooths fine lines and gives a subtle glow. Comes in 15 colors; $38.
Caliray Hideaway Under Eye Color Corrector
This light, brightening formula covers dark circles without caking. Dab under eyes with the wand and blend. Non-toxic ingredients; $29.
Trinny London BFF De-Stress Tinted Serum
A lightweight hybrid foundation that evens out complexion. Contains hyaluronic acid for hydration. Apply over SPF. $52.
Haus Labs Skin Tech Foundation
Lady Gaga's vegan, cruelty-free foundation offers moderate coverage and blurs skin naturally. Use the shade finder quiz for color matching. From $52.
Thrive Causemetics Brilliant Eye Brightener
A creamy, shimmery eyeshadow stick that brightens lids and lower lash line. Waterproof and available in 35 colors. From $26.
Twenty/Twenty Beauty Full Brows Tinted Gel
This dual-action tint and taming gel makes brows appear fuller and stays in place. Available in blonde, brown, and dark brown. $26.
Kevyn Aucoin The Volume Mascara
No more clumpy mascara! This formula uses a thin brush for volume with just one coat. From $32.
The Outset Lip Oasis
A non-sticky, hydrating lip gloss from Scarlett Johansson's brand. Leaves a kiss of color and hefty shine. $28.
Tower 28 ShineOn Plumping Lip Jelly
This plumping gloss uses a plant-based stimulant for a subtle plump. Hydrating and non-sticky. From $18.
Ilios Lighting Beauty Ring Mirror
Lighting is crucial for makeup application. This mirror offers 1X and 5X magnification, three color modes, and five dimming levels. From $269.
Keep experimenting with different products and don't be misled by social media. These standout tints, blushes, and eyeliners are my new go-tos.
