Skincare is the foundation of good makeup, according to experts. As we age, cell turnover slows, so regular exfoliation is key. Kate Hughes, a freelance makeup artist specialising in midlife beauty, advises exfoliating three to four times a week, starting slowly if new to the routine. She recommends exfoliating pads from brands like Boots or First Aid Beauty, then progressing to liquid exfoliants such as Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant.
Starting Young: Keep It Minimal
Bobbi Brown, founder of Jones Road Beauty, says there is no 'right' age to start wearing makeup; it depends on the child's maturity and interest. She suggests a little lip gloss, tinted moisturiser, and possibly blush or mascara for older teens. 'The goal isn't to look like someone else. It is to look like yourself, just a little more polished,' Brown advises.
Dealing with Blemishes
Brown cautions against covering every blemish with thick makeup. Instead, use a lightweight complexion product and spot conceal with a matching concealer, blending the edges. Lisa Eldridge, MBE, recommends pinpoint concealing only the areas that need disguising, avoiding thick blanket coverage.
Makeup in the Heat
For humid conditions, Hughes uses a 'makeup sandwich' method: apply a grippy primer, spray setting spray, apply makeup, then spray again. This layering technique extends wear. She also stresses high SPF use and staying out of the sun, noting that dermatologists advise choosing between good skin and a suntan.
Hiding Eye Bags
As skin thins under the eyes, heavy concealer can settle into lines. Brown recommends focusing on hydration first with eye cream and moisturiser. Antonio Cruz, a Manchester-based makeup artist, suggests caffeine eye creams applied consistently for at least 28 days. Hughes uses ice rollers to reduce puffiness. Eldridge makes green tea ice cubes to massage under the eyes. For concealer, Hughes layers multiple thin coats, blending well, using any brand from Rimmel to Chanel.
Application Techniques
Cruz recommends foundation brushes for smoother blending. Hughes says sponges work well, but fingers are fine in a rush. She advocates for thorough blending regardless of tool.
Embracing Wrinkles
Brown advises against trying to erase every line. 'As skin changes, less makeup usually looks better,' she says. Focus on favourite features with a bright lip or soft smoky eye to draw attention away from concerns.
Updating Your Look
Cruz suggests consulting beauty counter artists or taking a makeup lesson. Hughes recommends recreating Zendaya's viral eye makeup with lighter concealer for mature skin. Linasha Kotalawala loves colourful liners and mascaras from NYX and Marc Jacobs, noting the trend makes makeup fun again. Eldridge advises softening black eyeliner or applying powder shadow over liquid liner for a fresher look.
Makeup for Men
Cruz notes that many men appreciate makeup, especially concealer to hide late nights or blemishes. Eldridge recommends sheer textures for undetectable coverage, avoiding thick or drying products.
Practice and Matching
Cruz emphasises practicing new products before going out. For foundation matching, Kotalawala suggests brands like Fenty, Mac, and Estée Lauder for shade range. Cruz advises holding packaging near the face and trying the product with the intended outfit. Brown says the best lip colour is achieved by biting lips and choosing a shade close to the natural flush.
When asked for one essential product, Cruz says blusher to look more awake. Hughes recommends a cream multi-use product for cheeks and lips. Kotalawala prefers a 'blonzer' for a burnt-red warmth that suits deeper skin tones.
