I turned 40 last year and celebrated 41 in January 2024. Of course, the milestone of the “big” 4-0 got me thinking, assessing, and stressing. I recall all the research I was doing in the lead-up to hitting this milestone. One of the key things I started paying attention to was skincare and makeup application. Skincare is key and I’ll deal with that in another session. Today, however, I’d like to share with you the 5 key things I changed in my makeup application that elevated my look.
Turning 40 really flips the script on your beauty routine. It’s when the skin demands a bit more attention, and your makeup needs to keep pace with the changes. Gone are the days when any product off the shelf would suffice. It’s necessary to be more selective — to choose items that work hard for your skin.
But this isn’t just about selecting the right products; it’s more so about adjusting your application techniques. The way you apply makeup at 40 can make a significant difference in enhancing your natural beauty and ensuring that you look as vibrant and radiant as ever. Trust me, these changes are game-changers.
In this section, we’re going to explore not just the ‘what’ but the ‘why’ behind each tip, ensuring you understand the reason these adjustments make such a huge impact. And don’t worry too much about getting it perfect on the first attempt. You can always adjust your approach down the road. So, let’s explore these five makeup tips that are sure to elevate your look as you step into your fabulous forties and beyond.
The Foundation of Age-Defying Makeup: Hydration is Key
Turning 40 is a milestone that often inspires a renewed focus on self-care and beauty. First, I’m going to help you understand why it’s absolutely crucial to keep your skin well-moisturized, especially as you venture into your fabulous forties.
Your skin’s natural oils and ability to retain moisture start to diminish as you age, and that’s why I put moisturizing at the top of my beauty routine once I hit 40. This isn’t just about preventing dryness; it’s also about creating a smooth canvas for your makeup.
Choose a moisturizer that resonates with you; it should cater to your unique skin concerns. If your skin leans towards the dry side, look for products with hyaluronic acid or glycerin. For oily skin, a light, oil-free formula might be the answer. Personally, my skin has become oily with age. Niacinamide works well for me, especially on this newly developed oily t-zones.
Don’t overlook the power of a great primer. A hydrating primer does double duty, not only locking in your moisturizer but also ensuring your makeup applies evenly and lasts throughout the day. It’s a game-changer for minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Now, when you incorporate this crucial step into your daily routine, you can always adjust your product choices as your skin’s needs change over time. That’s the beauty of skincare—you’re not married to one product for life.
Second and third, you’re going to find out about how to brighten your under-eyes and why cream products might just become your new best friends in the makeup world—a seamless segue into creating a more youthful and vibrant makeup look in your forties.
Bright Eyes and Creamy Textures: Elevating Your Look
You’re going to find out about the undeniable difference a little brightness can make, especially when you’re embracing your forties. Brightening your under-eyes tackles those shadows that, let’s be honest, seem to have set up camp there overnight.
It is important to select the right kind of concealer—one that won’t settle into fine lines but will illuminate and bring life to your eyes. And remember, a light touch is critical; think of it as your magic wand for a refreshed look.
But it doesn’t stop at the eyes; the texture of your makeup products plays a tremendous role as you age. I’m all for the benefits of cream-based products for anyone in their fabulous forties. They blend seamlessly, avoiding the cakey or dry appearance that powders can often produce on mature skin.
Consider swapping out some of your old powders for cream blushes, eyeshadows, and even contour products. They sit more comfortably on the skin and can be easily touched up throughout the day. Cream products are also a dream for building that coveted natural glow.
From vibrant cream blushes to sultry cream eyeshadows, there’s a world of creamy options waiting to enhance your features without emphasizing lines or dryness. However, don’t throw out your powders just yet! In the next section, we’ll navigate the balancing act of incorporating blush and understanding when a touch of shimmer can make you shine—in the right way!
Embracing Your Age with Confidence: The Final Flourish
You’ve learned about moisturizing, brightening under-eyes, and opting for cream products. Product placement is imperative too. Fourth, try applying blush higher than normal. This can quickly add a lift to the face. Fifth, use shimmer wisely. Too much razzle and dazzle can actually add age to the face. Keep it minimal.
In my opinion, it’s essential to see makeup as a tool that complements your evolving skin, rather than covering up or fighting against the signs of aging.
Choose something that resonates with you. Makeup is personal, and what works for one person might not for another.
Don’t worry too much about getting it perfect on the first try. You can always adjust your approach as you learn what complements your unique beauty best.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll find that these changes not just elevate your look, but also how you feel about yourself. After all, every year is a badge of honor and your face tells the story of your journey.
Today, I’m going to leave you with this: Embrace the changes, experiment with these tips, and remember, your beauty is timeless.
Dee_J
I absolutely loved reading about your makeup tips for embracing and enhancing beauty in your forties! It’s clear that thoughtful application techniques and product choices can make a significant difference. I’m particularly interested in the cream-based products you mentioned and their benefits for mature skin. Could you recommend specific brands or products that you’ve found to be effective in this category? Also, when it comes to brightening the under-eyes, any recommendations for concealers that strike the right balance between coverage and avoiding settling into fine lines would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for sharing your insights, and I’m eager to explore these changes in my own makeup routine!
Hi Ashley.
So happy to hear from you and really glad you enjoyed the blog. I am on this forties journey and embracing who I was, who I am, and who I am going to be. I have adopted these techniques that I mentioned in the article myself and they have made a difference in my appearance, but more importantly, it has made a difference in my skin.
When it comes to products and brands I could go crazy with suggestions and I have barely scratched the surface of brands. So, I will gladly share with you what I have been using that has been working for me.
For concealer, I have found that LA Girl lays well and does not have much creasing. I have used the Winky Lux concealer as well. This formula is thinner than the LA girl so may be better suited if you are looking for a light layer.
For cream products, there is lots to explore and if you can, I would encourage you to try different brands to find your match. For blush, I tend to reach for Rare Beauty and Milk cream blushes. My newest favorite cream contour is Huda Beauty. Cream eyeshadows are endless. I am currently using a couple from Elf and I’ll be trying a Colorpop selection soon.
I do hope that this has helped with your questions and feel free to reach out.
Dee_J.