Navigating the world of eye makeup can seem daunting as we age, but fear not! With a few expert-approved tips, you can enhance your eyes and embrace your timeless beauty. Here are five easy eye makeup tips to help women over 40 look and feel fabulous.
1. Embrace Eyelid Contouring: As we age, eyelid contouring becomes essential to define and uplift the eyes. Using a slightly darker shade than your natural skin tone, gently contour the crease of your eyelid. This technique creates depth, giving the illusion of lifted, more youthful eyes. It’s about embracing subtlety; you don’t need bold lines or dramatic shadows to achieve a stunning effect.
Contouring your eyelids can transform them, making them appear more awake and vibrant. It’s an understated approach that highlights your natural beauty without overshadowing it. Remember, less is more, and blending is your best friend.
Product on Amazon: Contours Rx Lids By Design – Non-Surgical & Transparent Eyelid Lift Strips – For a More Youthful-Looking Appearance, Reshape and Define with Eyelid Tape for Hooded Eyes (7mm) 80ct
Brand: Visit the Contours Rx Store
Price: 34.95 USD
Rating: 3.4 Total reviews: 6261
Material: Polyurethane
Number of Items: 1
Recommended Uses For Product: Cosmetic Enhancement
Special Feature: Waterproof
Top Review from US: “I do love this product, especially becasue I am not brave enough to consider eyelid surgery and because I LOVE how these strips make my eyes look. Highly recommend.”
Shopping on Aamzon >>
2. Hydrate and Prime: As skin matures, hydration becomes increasingly important. Before applying makeup, gently pat on an eye cream that delivers moisture and plumps fine lines. Follow this with a dedicated eye primer to ensure your makeup stays in place and looks fresh throughout the day.
A well-moisturized base not only helps makeup adhere better but also prevents it from settling into any creases or fine lines. It creates a smooth canvas for your eye makeup and enhances its longevity, ensuring you look polished from morning to night.
Product on Amazon: e.l.f. Power Grip Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer For Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizes & Primes, 0.811 Fl Oz (24 ml.)
Brand: e.l.f.
Price: 10 USD
Rating: 4.6 Total reviews: 28,406
Top Review from US: “I am pretty sure that everything I can say about this primer has been said before. It is a game changer in the world of foundation. It literally sticks your foundation to your skin and makes all of your makeup last so much longer. And my foundation looks smoother. It is amazing. I have never tried the brand that ELF duped, but I don’t see how it could be better than this. Plus the price is fantastic. I regret waiting to try it as long as I have but I have always used silicone primers. I want to try the one with niacinamide next. I cannot recommend this enough.”
Shopping on Amazon >>
3. Choose a Creamy Eyeliner: Creamy eyeliners are a mature skin’s best friend, offering a softer application and a more forgiving finish. Opt for pencils that glide on effortlessly, reducing the risk of tugging on delicate skin. Neutral tones like brown or taupe are particularly flattering and can add definition without being overly harsh.
These formulations allow for easy blending, providing a smudged, smoky effect that’s perfect for a more natural look. Whether you desire a sophisticated day look or a sultry evening eye, creamy eyeliners deliver versatility with a touch of elegance.
Product on Amazon: Clinique Quickliner For Eyes | Water Resistant, Smudge Resistant + Safe For Sensitive Eyes
Price: 27 USD
Rating: 4.5 Total reviews: 4620
Color: AC Smoky Brown
Item Form: Pencil
Finish Type: Luminous
Special Feature: Smudge Resistant
Top Review from US: “I absolutely love the Clinique Quickliner For Eyes! It glides on smoothly and stays in place all day without smudging or fading. The water-resistant formula is a game changer, even through a long day or a little moisture. Plus, it’s gentle on my sensitive eyes, which is a huge plus. Definitely a must-have for anyone looking for reliable, smudge-proof eyeliner.”
Shopping on Amazon >>
4. Highlight Strategically: A touch of shimmer on the inner corners of the eyes and the brow bone can work wonders in brightening your look. Use a light, pearlescent shade to draw light to these areas, creating an open and refreshed appearance.
This highlighting trick is a quick fix for tired eyes, offering a lift and youthful glow. It’s a subtle yet effective way to illuminate your features and enhance the natural shape of your eyes, making them the focal point of your makeup.
5. Define with Mascara: Mascara is the ultimate tool for widening and defining the eyes. Opt for mascaras that separate, lift, and volumize without clumping. For the best results, focus on the roots and wiggle the wand as you move upward to achieve fuller lashes.
Choosing a formula rich in nourishing ingredients can also promote lash health, ensuring they remain strong and vibrant. Whether you’re aiming for a natural or dramatic look, mascara is the key to framing your eyes beautifully.
Product on Amazon: Maybelline New York Define-A-Lash Lengthening Washable Mascara, Very Black. For Washable Definition and Shape in Longer-looking Lashes , 0.22 Fluid Ounce
Brand: Visit the MAYBELLINE Store
Price: 7.98 USD
Rating: 4.5 Total reviews: 3461
Color: WASHABLE VERY BLACK
Product Benefits: Defining, Lengthening, Separating, Long Lasting, Volumizing, Washable
Special Feature: Washable
Material Type Free: Alcohol Free
Top Review from US: “The best mascara for my very fine straight lashes! This curls, defines but volumizes without clumping! It’s a very lightweight mascara that won’t weigh your lashes down. It lasts all day without flaking or smudging. You can wear it as natural or build it up how you want it. It’s a very underrated mascara in my opinion. I hope this never discontinues or I’m in trouble lol No more searching for a really nice mascara.”
Shopping on Amazon >>
The beauty of makeup lies in its ability to enhance what’s already there. Each tip and technique is about celebrating your unique features and personal style. Embracing the journey of aging with grace and creativity allows every woman to feel confident and empowered, no matter her age.
Related posts:
Bobbi Brown Shares 5 ‘Hero’ Products She Calls ‘So Simple’
The 7 Best Eyeliners for Older Women of 2025, Tested and Reviewed
The 9 best makeup tips for older women for gorgeous results every time
