As we age, our once smooth and plump skin starts to dramatically change, we experience loss of elasticity, increased dryness, fine lines and wrinkles and age spots. Some of us even become more prone to blemishes and breakouts (eek!) But this doesn’t mean we can’t rock a stunning makeup look like we once did! It just means we need to change tactics. Preparing mature skin for makeup requires a somewhat different approach to ensure we can still achieve that much desired flawless and radiance look! Read on as we talk skin prep for the over 40’s, including tips and techniques to help keep makeup looking natural and fresh all day long!

 

1. Start skin prep with a thorough cleanse

Before you begin your makeup routine, it’s crucial that skin is cleansed thoroughly. You want to make sure any impurities, excess oil or residual makeup even, has been removed so that your makeup adheres to your skin better, and lasts longer! Look for a hydrating cleanser specifically designed to target ageing skin, or a gentle creamy cleanser if your skin tends to be on the more sensitive side.

We highly recommend Pevonia’s Hydrating Cleanser

N.B remember regular exfoliation is also important as it can help promote cell turnover and improve the texture of mature skin. Exfoliate once or twice weekly with a gentle exfoliating cleanser. If you have sensitive skin and wish to steer clear of physical exfoliators (exfoliators with the “bits” in them) try a chemical of enzyme exfoliator.

We can’t get enough of Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes

2. Hydration, Hydration, Hydration

If we are talking makeup application for the over 50’s (over 40’s even) the most imperative step in prepping skin, is to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! For that flawless makeup finish we all want to achieve, you need to create the perfect canvas, and you can’t do that if your skin is patchy and parched (which sadly is a thing as we age). Invest in a high-quality serum and moisturiser that will nourish and plumps the skin. Look for products containing hyaluronic acid, ceramides and antioxidants to boost hydration and combat signs of ageing. Using a gemstone facial roller be extremely beneficial too.

Additionally, consider using a hydrating facial mist rich in hyaluronic acid to boost hydration levels throughout the day.

We love Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist

 

3. Don’t forget your sunscreen

Next. it’s time for the sunscreen. No matter what your age, sunscreen is a non-negotiable! You can spend all the money in the world on skincare, but if you don’t use it in conjunction with sunscreen you may as well be pouring it down the drain!

A great option for sunscreen for mature skin is ELES Luminous Defence Brightening Day protection SPF 50.

4. Primer is a must

A primer can work wonders for mature skin by filling in fine lines and wrinkles, blurring imperfections, and ensuring longer-lasting makeup. In fact I’d safely save it will become your secret weapon when it comes to prepping mature skin for makeup. Look for a silicone-based primer that offers a smoothing effect without clogging pores. Apply it evenly to your face after moisturizing, focusing on areas prone to fine lines, such as around the eyes and mouth.

We LOVE ELES’s range of face primers. For mature skin we highly recommend ELES Retexture Crème Face Primer

5. Choose the Right Foundation

Choosing the right foundation for mature skin can make a world of difference. You might well be a fan of matte foundations, but generally heavy matte formulas can settle into creases, accentuating dry patches and fine lines! As we age it’s better to opt for lightweight, hydrating foundations with a dewy or satin finish. Additionally, consider using a colour-correcting foundation to counteract any redness or discoloration like ELES Luminous CC Cream 20 (which has the added bonus of sunscreen!

What’s more! For the month of June, when you purchase an ELES Luminous CC Cream 20 or best-selling Age-Defying BB Cream 30 you’ll receive a FREE Sheet Mask. Plus you get to choose from one of three sheet masks specifically designed to counteract ageing – Youth Recovery, Calming and Soothing or Hydrating and Brightening.

6. Concealing and Highlighting

A good concealer will be your best friend when it comes to camouflaging dark circles, ages spots or any areas of your face that needs that little bit of extra coverage. To address these issues, choose a creamy, hydrating concealer and make sure it matches your skin tone. Apply it sparingly with a small brush or your fingertips, gently blending it into the skin. Make sure you avoid any excessive tugging or pulling, as it can exacerbate the appearance of wrinkles.

Try ELES Dual Action Concealer, you won’t be disappointed!

N.B For a youthful, lifted effect, apply a light-reflecting concealer or highlighter to the inner corners of your eyes, brow bone, and cheekbones.

7. Set Makeup with a Finishing Powder

To prolong the longevity of your makeup without sacrificing the dewy finish, lightly dust a translucent powder only on areas prone to excess oil, such as the T-zone. Avoid applying it to drier areas, as it can accentuate fine lines. Use a fluffy brush for a light application, ensuring your skin retains its natural radiance.

Try ELES NEW Translucent Powder

8. Always add colour for that youthful healthy glow

Another sign of ageing is a dull and uneven complexion! Cue the magic of a good blush and/or bronzer. Simple apply a subtle blush shade to the apples of your cheeks for that youthful flushed affect and lightly dust bronzer along your cheekbones and temples to add warmth and dimension.

Choose shades that complement your skin tone and always remember less is more!

 

9. Create mature eyes that pop

For your eyes, keep it simple and elegant. Use neutral eyeshadows that enhance your natural beauty. Avoid heavy or overly shimmery shadows, as they can emphasize creases. A soft, smudged eyeliner and a few coats of mascara will define your eyes without overpowering them. Also line the inner rim of your lower lash line or waterline as it’s otherwise known with a white pencil a waterline liner! (We recommend ELES’s Waterline liner). By doing so it’ll immediately open up your eyes as well as make the whites of your eyes look whiter (synonymous with younger looking eyes!)

For more on ageing eyes and the best tips and tricks to care for them click here.

10. Complete the look with luscious lips

As we age our lips loose their colour and get thinner and dryer too! so you’ll want to be armed with a good hydrating and volumizing lip product like ELES Velvet Satin Lipstick.

Choose colours that flatter your complexion and make you feel happy and confident.

Remember, the key to flawless makeup is not only the products you use but also the techniques you employ. Be gentle with your skin, blend your products seamlessly and never overdo your makeup.