Since turning 50, my makeup preferences have shifted dramatically. I've moved from smoky eyes and bold lips to a more natural look that enhances without aging. Here are the everyday standouts currently winning spots in my makeup bag.
Why Your Makeup Routine Should Change After 50
Makeup artist Vivian Baker, who has worked with A-listers like Bette Midler and Blake Lively, encourages clients over 50 to keep experimenting. "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.
Kerry-Lou Hensen warns against unrealistic social media transformations: "Lighting, angles, expressions, and often retouching create illusions that aren't achievable." She recommends lightweight skin tints, cream blushes, and soft blendable eyeliners.
Top 12 Makeup Products for Women Over 50
Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Sunkissed Glow Bronzer
This light, cream-based bronzer applies naturally to face and body. Available in four shades, I keep a lighter hue for winter and darker for summer.
Nars The Multiple
Powder blush can sink into wrinkles. This velvety cream blush brings life back to skin. I love the peachy pink Orgasm Crave shade.
Jones Road Miracle Balm
Bobbi Brown's creation works as highlighter, bronzer, blush, or tinted moisturizer. It smooths fine lines and provides a subtle glow. Comes in 15 colors.
Caliray Hideaway Under Eye Color Corrector
Perfect for perimenopause-related puffiness and dark circles. Light, brightening formula covers imperfections without caking.
Trinny London BFF De-Stress Tinted Serum
A skincare-makeup hybrid with hyaluronic acid for hydration. Offers light coverage for red patches and uneven tone.
Haus Labs Skin Tech Foundation
Lady Gaga's vegan, cruelty-free foundation provides lightweight, moderate coverage that blurs skin naturally. Free shade swap if needed.
Thrive Causemetics Brilliant Eye Brightener
A creamy eyeshadow stick that doubles as a lower lid brightener. Waterproof and available in 35 colors.
Twenty/Twenty Beauty Full Brows Tinted Gel
Dual-action tint and taming gel makes brows appear fuller and keeps them in place. Available in brown, blonde, and dark brown.
Kevyn Aucoin The Volume Mascara
No clumps! The thin brush coats lashes with volume-inducing pigment in just one coat.
The Outset Lip Oasis
Scarlett Johansson's non-sticky, hydrating gloss leaves a kiss of color and hefty shine. Seven shades available.
Tower 28 ShineOn Plumping Lip Jelly
Non-toxic plant-based stimulant gives a subtle plump. Hydrating, non-sticky, and available in shades like Bitter Sweet.
Ilios Lighting Beauty Ring Mirror
Proper lighting is key. This mirror offers 1X and 5X magnification, three color modes, and five dimming levels.
Keep experimenting and don't be misled by social media. These products are my new go-tos for a natural, radiant look after 50.
