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Not to be the bearer of bad news, but the makeup you wore on repeat in your 20s and 30s is probably not going to cut it anymore once you've reached a certain age. As we get older, our face begins to subtly change over time. Fine lines and wrinkles are more prominent, skin craves more hydration, and elastin and collagen begin to decline. While the thought of having to start fresh again may sound daunting—and maybe even frustrating—finding the best products for your changing skin texture is easier than you think.
According to Chanel makeup artist Kate Lee, there are few key tips one can follow to streamline their new and improved routine, beginning with looking for products specifically formulated with anti-aging ingredients.
"A mistake maturing women make when applying their makeup that I see a lot is that they have been using the same product for 10 years or more," says the pro, noting that buying a new foundation is a great place to start. "Foundations are incredible these days—they change constantly and if you stick with one product for many years, you may miss the magic. I encourage people to try new products and techniques—that in itself is an act of youthfulness!"
Ahead, Lee, along with more beauty industry legends, share their insider secrets—and preferred products—for youthful-looking skin, regardless of age.
Go easy with the foundation.
"I believe using less makeup is best on mature skin, so I recommend focusing on the areas where you truly need the coverage and avoiding expression lines. Try using a lighter formula foundation and then building coverage where needed, or try using a concealer rather than 'blanketing' the skin and creating a blank canvas. Lean into smarter formulations and use less." — Kate Lee
Chanel VITALUMIÈRE AQUA Ultra-Light Skin Perfecting Sunscreen Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15
Chanel VITALUMIÈRE AQUA Ultra-Light Skin Perfecting Sunscreen Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15
The fluid texture of this foundation goes on feather light and amps up skin's hydration with hyaluronic acid for natural wrinkle-softening dewiness.
Key Ingredients: "High Definition Light" pigments, hyaluronic acid
Coverage: Light to medium
Shades: 17
This oil-free gel formula sinks seamlessly into skin for a "your complexion but better" look. For spots that needs some extra love, the coverage is buildable as well.
Key Ingredients: Aloe, Chamomile, Arnica
Coverage: Medium to full
Shades: 15
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For those who prefer a more matte finish, this foundation wears sheer, but won't leave skin looking shiny.
Key Ingredients: SPF & Antioxidants with Vitamin E
Coverage: Sheer, matte
Shades: 15+
Define the lash line.
"I recommend using my 'invisible lining' technique. Pressing the liner in between each lash along the lash line adds definition, bringing the look of lush and full lashes even before mascara." —Trish McEvoy, makeup artist
A super-thin tip and smooth gel formula make this mechanical liner easy to use for subtle touches.
Formula: Gel
Shades: 5
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Bold color payoff and a long-wearing formula make this a great choice for all day wear.
Formula: Pencil
Shades: 7
Take time to prime.
"Adding moisture to the complexion and taking time to prep is important. Products that prime the skin should be a light, easily-absorbed and hydrating. Moisturizer or serum work well, avoid using a product with too much emollience as it can cause the make up to move around. Always wait a few minutes for the product to settle before moving on with makeup."— Kate Lee
NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base Original
NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base Original
Prevent creasing that can highlight fine lines with this eyeshadow primer that holds your favorite shade in place for hours on end.
Key Ingredients: Deep-Sea Extract, antioxidant rice extract
Compatible With: Cream, powder
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This silky liquid primer not only creates a smooth base for your other makeup, it also helps it hold on without creasing or smudges.
Key Ingredients: Fibroin, sericin, and silk powder
Skin Type: Normal, combination, oily
Brighten and even out the complexion.
"Apply a BB cream. If you don't have the time to totally prep your skin, BB is an all-in-one skin perfecter. Not only does it prime, brighten, and even out the skin, it protects from daily UV exposure. An even skin tone projects a more youthful look." —Trish McEvoy
Clinique Age Defense BB Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Clinique Age Defense BB Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30
The lightest hint of color gently evens out skin tone—the built in SPF 30 and antioxidants ward off UV rays and free radicals that can induce signs of aging.
Skin Type: Dry, combination, oily
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bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer
bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer
With nearly two dozen shades, this hydrating balm offers a wide array of options for every skin tone.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, olive-derived squalane, mineral-based sunscreen
Coverage: Light
Shades: 20
Trish McEvoy Beauty Balm Instant Solutions BB Cream SPF 35
Trish McEvoy Beauty Balm Instant Solutions BB Cream SPF 35
This semi-sheer formula—available in four shades—leaves a velvety finish on your complexion, while peptides give skin a boost.
Coverage: Medium to full
Skin Type: Normal, combination, oily
Shades: 4
Exfoliating is the key to smooth application.
"Many women avoid exfoliating and end up looking like they’re wearing heavy makeup, because even the lightest application grabs onto dry patches (aka dead skin). " —Jenny Smith, makeup artist
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Formulated with beta-hydroxy acid and pomegranate enzymes, this mask melts away dead skin cells to leave your skin looking smoother and brighter.
Key Ingredients: Pink clay, pomegranate enzymes, white willow bark
Skin Type: Dry, normal, combination, oily
Recommended Usage: 3x a week
More: The Best At-Home Chemical Peels
ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment
ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment
A mix of chemical and physical exfoliants, this treatment tackles signs of dryness and dullness in two minute flat.
Key Ingredients: Papaya, pineapple, and pumpkin enzymes, lactic acid, aloe
Skin Type: All
Recommended Usage: 1-2x a week
Get a dose of microdermabrasion at home with this fine-grit scrub that really sweeps away flakiness.
Key Ingredients: Pumpkin and pomegranate enzymes, magnesium crystals
Skin Type: Normal to combination
Recommended Usage: Once daily
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Prep lips before lipstick.
"Scrub the lips, then apply concealer that’s the same color as your skin all over the lip with a foundation brush. Add a balm on top to set, which provides extra hydration. Outline with a liner, fill them in, and use a lip brush or your finger to apply the color." —Pat McGrath, makeup artist
No more lipstick bleeding into the lines around your mouth, courtesy of this balmy primer that keeps lipstick right where you want it.
Finish: Shimmer
April Long
Beauty Director
April Long writes about beauty, wellness, and luxury skincare for Town & Country.
