As our skin ages, it undergoes changes like reduced elasticity, fine lines, and dryness, which in turn, makes it challenging to apply or even choose makeup. But with the right techniques and products, you can improve your natural beauty and achieve a radiant, youthful look. Here are 15 expert-approved secrets to make it happen!

Hydrate Skin for a Smooth Base

Hydration directly impacts how makeup sits on your skin. Opt for moisturizers with hyaluronic acid to plump and smooth fine lines. Apply it while your skin is damp to lock in moisture. This way, your makeup doesn’t settle into creases or appear patchy.

Pick a Foundation with Skin Benefits

Choose a foundation that comes with ingredients like peptides or vitamin C. These not only even out your skin tone but also work to improve elasticity and brightness over time. Skip matte formulas and go for hydrating ones that enhance a natural glow.

Use Primers Tailored to Your Needs

If your skin tends to look dull, go for an illuminating primer. For uneven texture, a silicone-based primer can fill fine lines. By choosing one that targets your specific concerns, you’ll create a perfect base that keeps makeup looking fresh longer.

Switch to Cream-Based Products

Powder blushes and bronzers can end up highlighting dry patches and wrinkles. Cream-based products blend better into mature skin and help you look more natural. For best results, apply them with your fingers to melt the product seamlessly into the skin.

Blush Placement Matters

Instead of applying blush on the apples of your cheeks, sweep it slightly higher toward your temples. This technique lifts your face and prevents a sagging appearance. Stick to warm tones that mimic the natural flush of healthy skin.

Go Light on Concealer

Thick concealers tend to crease around the eyes. Use a lightweight, serum-like formula in minimal amounts. Dab only on dark areas, like the inner corners of the eyes, and blend outward for a brightening effect that doesn’t exaggerate texture.

Reassess Your Brows

Overplucked brows can age the face. Use a tinted brow gel or fine pencil to softly define and fill sparse areas. Aim for a shape that improves your natural arch without looking overly drawn, as softer brows look more youthful.

Neutral Eyeshadows with Depth

Focus on creating subtle depth with matte and satin-finish neutrals. Blend a mid-tone shade into the crease to define your eyes without harsh lines. Skip frosted or glitter shadows, as they can highlight creases and look dated.

Invest in a Quality Eyelash Curler

A good eyelash curler can instantly lift your eyes, and make them appear larger and more awake. Follow it up with a tubing mascara that won’t smudge or flake, and your lashes stay curled and defined all day.

Hydrating Lipsticks Are a Must

Matte lipsticks can accentuate fine lines. Instead, opt for lipsticks with nourishing ingredients like shea butter or jojoba oil. These formulas keep lips hydrated while providing rich color. Also, avoid shades that are too pale, as they can wash you out.

Blend Products Into the Skin

Instead of layering makeup on the surface, press and blend products into the skin for a seamless finish. Use a damp makeup sponge to melt the foundation and blush into your skin. This makes your makeup look like skin, not a mask.

Subtle Highlighter for Natural Glow

Apply a liquid or cream highlighter sparingly to areas that naturally catch light, like the top of your cheekbones and the bridge of your nose. Avoid chunky glitter formulas; a soft sheen can give you radiance without drawing attention to texture.

Setting Spray Over Powder

Traditional powders can emphasize dryness and wrinkles. Use a setting spray with hydrating properties to lock in makeup while keeping your skin fresh and radiant. It prevents makeup from fading and helps you stay comfortable all day.

Lip Liner Prevents Feathering

As lips lose definition over time, feathering lipstick can become an issue. Use a nude or clear lip liner to outline your lips and prevent color from smudging. It also helps define the shape to make your lips look fuller and polished.

SPF in Every Routine

UV damage speeds up aging like nothing else, so sunscreen should always be a non-negotiable step. Use a lightweight SPF 30 or higher before applying makeup. Modern formulas feel weightless and sit well under foundation, so sun protection won’t interfere with your look.