Fifty-friendly beauty tips

September 5, 2011

BY MARY JANE HORTON

You have probably heard all of the caveats about beauty and aging: cut your hair, lighten your hair, don’t wear harsh colors, wear brown mascara, not black.  Some of these are true – some are not. We are here to give you the real lowdown on gently aging beauty from the experts. Here is what you should – and shouldn’t – do.

Skin

While everyone is different, and there aren’t too many universal facts about women, one thing is pretty definite – as you age your skin gets dryer. Dawn Rivard, Toronto-based makeup artist says, “Moist skin and lips will instantly make you look younger, so remember to use a moisturizer that is appropriate for your current skin type. A moisturizer that worked when you were younger may not achieve the same results as before.” And don’t forget to keep yourself hydrated from within as well by drinking plenty of water.

If you aren’t sure that the products you have been using are still appropriate, the best way to find out is to get a facial and a consultation with the aesthetician. They may have a stake in selling you products, but you aren’t obligated and you can ask questions about the weight of your moisturizer, whether or not your skin cleanser is too harsh, and any other questions you might have.

 Foundation, concealer and powder

“Less is more,” says New York-based celebrity makeup artist Cynde Watson  who has worked with some very big name in entertain including Angela Bassett, Cynthia Nixon and Paula Abdul. “Keep foundation skin tone correct, with light to medium coverage. Look for peptides in the ingredients because the peptide technology works with your collagen to help firm your skin.”  The new tinted moisturizers are light and clean and may work instead of a foundation. Watson also suggests that even if you don’t want to wear foundation, everyone over 50 should use a bit of concealer . She says to choose highly pigmented concealers with sheer formulas.

The best way to find out if your foundation is working for your changing skin is a trip to the makeup counter at your favorite department store. And while you’re there, why not take advantage of one of the free makeover deals for a fresh look at your makeup routine. It may just give you a much-needed perspective on all of your colors and products.  Ask the makeup artist to help you to objectively review your look. Is your application old-fashion? Could you benefit from a lesson?

Another great way to keep your makeup fresh and young looking is to invest in some new makeup brushes. “A couple of new brushes will make your makeup application quicker, easier and more professional looking,” says Rivard. “You will never see a professional makeup artist using old or poorly made brushes.”

Eyes

“Heavy colorful eye makeup can add years to your face,” says Watson. “Keep eye shadow neutral and if you want to add color then line with deep colorful shades such as navy, eggplant, mahogany, hunter green, rich brown or black.”

One thing that Rivard says will easily perk up your look is to curl your lashes, if you don’t already. “It only takes a couple of seconds and it will open up your eyes and make a big difference in your look, especially after you apply mascara.”  Find the best mascara – lengthening, volumizing, etc. – for your needs. And, yes, black mascara is okay after 50 –  it adds drama to the eyes. And speaking of lashes, if yours are falling out or losing their punch, Watson suggests extensions. “Its all about the eyes,” she says.  “I think the investment in lash extensions is very worth the time and money. Longer lashes make your eyes look more open and youthful.

Eyebrows          

“Keep eyebrows groomed in your natural shape,” says Watson. “Don’t over-tweeze or wear them too thin. Fill brows in a shade that matches your eyebrow color not your hair color.” She also suggests that if your eyebrows are gray and your hair isn’t you should tint your eyebrows to match. Softer eyebrows make you appear more youthful.

Lips

Watson says to wear a shade that matches your natural lip color. “Staying in the same tone, select shades lighter or darker depending on your mood,” she adds. “Never wear a skinny dark lip liner. Use a liner that matches the natural lip line.”

Hair

That tip about lightening your hair – true. “As your skin color fades, you want your hair to compliment it,” says Rivard. So she suggests going a little lighter or getting highlights around your face. She also says that typically long hair on women over 40 is not flattering. “However, of course there are exceptions to that rule,” she notes.

And what do you do if those tell-tale grey hairs are popping out too soon? “Hair touch up mascara is a must have,” says Watson. “Keep one in your purse for quick touch-ups between coloring.”