Anti Aging Make Up Tips
By Raychel Wade, Colour Ambassador for La Prairie and Founder of Cheek to Chic
There’s no denying that aging takes its toll on our bodies and our faces. Sure, you are noticing more small lines around the eyes and mouth with each passing birthday, and elasticity isn’t what it once was. Yet nothing reminds you of the aging process more than looking in the mirror and seeing that your skin lacks the luster and glow it once had in your youth. Makeup looks and feels different, and your old makeup routine that had you looking bright and perky doesn’t seem to have the same magical, powerful effect. But there’s good news: there are certain tried and true makeup tricks and techniques to help keep your face looking young and vibrant.
It all starts with the skin! It’s more important than ever to have your skin in tip top shape from the inside out. Staying hydrated by drinking lots of water daily and being aware of the air you sleep in is a must – excessive air-conditioning or heat will zap your skin of much needed moisture. Next, use both a cleanser and moisturizer loaded with emollients. We are programmed to believe that oil on our skin will result in clogged pores and unsightly breakouts (at any age) – not true! One of my all time favorite combinations is Shu Uemura’s Cleansing Oil followed by La Prairie’s Skin Caviar Luxe Cream. This leaves your skin with an immediate dose of moisture that you will see a real difference when you apply your makeup.
Speaking of makeup, to keep it from looking dull and dry, avoid all heavy powders. This includes powder foundation, blushes and shadows which can settle into fine lines making them appear worse than they actually are. Opt for products that are geared towards moisture like an illuminating foundation (crucial to evening out skin tone and imperfections, both which become more apparent as we age) and cream blush. While you might think that a highlighter is only for twenty-somethings, you’d be surprised the subtle glow it can provide, so long as you select one with subtle shimmer not a full on glow. Personally, my go-to is La Prairie’s Light Fantastic. The pen-like applicator makes it extremely easy to apply. Click the pen a few times to bring colour to the tip, then draw a swoop down the nose and around the eyes, blending with your fingertip or a brush, and watch as you brighten and lighten the area by creating dimension.
For the eye area, start with a well-groomed brow. It’s key to a polished, put together look. For shadow colour choices, it’s important to take into account your skin tone. You want to avoid colours that can accentuate dark circles under your eyes or sallow skin. Shadows with a red undertone can make eyes looks tired and blood shot. Instead opt for light colors that will open your eye such as NARS Nymphea (a beautiful baby pink). Step slightly outside your comfort zone – it may be time to retire the same brown eye shadow you’ve worn for years and try a colour in the same family as that brown but with undertones that pick up the colour of your eyes better. Also, avoid anything too harsh – instead of black liner, try navy or gray – this subtle shift in color still has a smoky, dramatic effect but reads better on the face.
On to blush – it is one of the quickest ways to give your face a pick me up. While most people shy away from bright colors with blush, it’s a surefire way to make your face look bright and radiant, and in turn, you look younger. While it may sounds wild, almost anyone can pull off a bright pink or bright apricot color – it’s just ensuring you apply with a light hand to avoid any Bozo clown references. I like a bright cream blush. To apply, smile and lightly tap the colour onto the round part directly under your eye when smiling, then blend softly – do not rub. I promise, colour looks like it’s radiating from within.”
For the mouth, avoid lipsticks that err towards browns and purples. Instead opt for a color that is one shade brighter than your natural lip. Most long-lasting lipsticks tend to be drying, and thus, begin feathering out and settling into lines on and around the mouth. As that’s the case, look for lipsticks that are tagged as “creamy,” “hydrating” or “moisturizing” – these words are your friends! Try topping lipstick with a soft layer of light peach or neutral colored gloss for an extra bit of shine.
Remember – the goal is to wear makeup NOT have makeup that wears you. Work with what you have, and highlight your best features. It’s not only possible to age gracefully – it’s easy to do so, as long as you’re armed with the knowledge and makeup products you need!
