Blush and Bronzer for Women Over 50
When it comes to makeup for mature skin, the right products and application techniques can make all the difference. Both blush and bronzer have their places in enhancing the natural beauty of aging skin, but knowing which one to use and how to apply it is crucial. While a well-chosen blush can bestow a youthful rosiness, a bronzer, applied strategically, can give the face a warm, lifted appearance.
In this post, we’ll do a deep dive into these products, from the best drugstore finds to the ideal tools for application, and discover how to master the art of makeup for mature skin.
Blush or bronzer for mature skin
Mature skin presents its own set of considerations when it comes to makeup. Between blush and bronzer, which is the better choice?
Blush adds a youthful glow by introducing a fresh hint of color to the cheeks. For mature skin, cream or liquid blushes are often ideal because they blend smoothly and don't accentuate fine lines. Shades like rosy pinks and soft mauves are especially flattering.
Bronzer, meanwhile, offers warmth and definition. It's a way to contour mature skin and highlight features, but it's crucial to pick a bronzer that's not too shimmery. The goal is a warm, natural look, just a shade or two darker than the natural skin tone.
Ultimately, the decision between blush and bronzer comes down to the desired look: a youthful flush or sun-kissed definition. Many find that a blend of both captures the best of both worlds.
Blush for Mature skin
Does blush make you look older or younger?
Blush, when chosen and applied correctly, can make you look younger by imparting a healthy, youthful glow. It mimics the natural flush of youth, revitalizing the complexion. However, the wrong shade or application can be aging, so it's essential to choose suitable colors and techniques.
What color blush makes you look younger?
Blush is a powerful makeup tool that can either elevate your look or if misapplied, draw unnecessary attention to features you might want to downplay. When seeking to evoke youthfulness, there are a few principles to keep in mind:
Mimic Natural Rosiness: Think back to when you were a child and remember the soft pink hue that appeared on your cheeks when you were excited or had been playing outdoors. Those natural, dewy shades are what we aim to replicate. This is why rosy pinks often top the list; they recall the flush of our youth.
Warmth and Radiance: As we age, our skin may lose some of its natural warmth. Soft corals can be perfect for reviving that warmth, especially for those with warmer undertones. Coral blushes give a sun-kissed, healthy vibrancy that speaks to days spent on a sunny beach.
Subtle Depth with Mauves: For those with cooler undertones, light mauves provide depth and sophistication without overwhelming the skin. Mauve shades can contour the face in a subtle manner, adding definition and a touch of romantic charm.
Mind Your Skin's Undertones: It's paramount to consider your skin's undertones. Those with warm undertones might find peaches and soft oranges flattering, while cool undertones might gravitate towards pinks and mauves. Neutral undertones have a bit more flexibility and can experiment with a broader range of shades to find the perfect match.
Avoid Extremes: While bold blush can be a striking look for editorial shoots or special occasions, if the aim is to look younger, it's wise to steer clear of overly bright or dark shades. These can be harsh on mature skin, drawing attention to texture and lines.
Blush Finish Matters: While shade is crucial, the finish of the blush can also impact the overall look. A slight shimmer can impart a youthful glow, but avoid chunky glitter, which can settle into fine lines. Matte blushes, if they're too flat, might look drab, so look for formulas that have a soft, satin finish.
In summary, when selecting a blush shade to look younger, think of soft, warm, and natural hues. The goal is to enhance and enliven without overpowering, achieving a fresh-faced, youthful radiance.
How to apply blush over 40?
How to Apply Blush for a Youthful Appearance on Mature Skin:
As we age, the facial structure and skin's elasticity change, necessitating different makeup techniques. For women over 40 or those with more mature skin, blush application requires a different approach than what might be advised for younger skin.
Avoid the Apples: While smiling and applying blush to the apples of the cheeks is a popular technique for younger faces, this approach might not be flattering for mature skin. As skin loses its elasticity with age, the apples of the cheeks can drop, and placing blush there can accentuate the downward drag, making the face appear older.
Highlight the Cheekbones: Instead, focus on the cheekbones. Applying blush directly on or just slightly below the cheekbones gives the face a lifted appearance. This technique accentuates the bone structure and creates a youthful, defined look.
Blend Upwards: Always blend the blush in an upward direction, moving towards the temples. This provides a lifting effect, which combats the natural downward pull that comes with age.
Soft and Subtle: A heavy hand can age the face. It's better to start with a light application and build up if necessary. Using a fluffy blush brush can help ensure that the product is distributed evenly.
In essence, blush can be a fantastic tool to rejuvenate and lift mature skin when applied with these considerations in mind. It's all about enhancing the natural bone structure and countering the effects of gravity and time.
Should a 60 year old woman wear blush?
A 60-year-old woman can and should wear blush if she desires. It can add warmth and vitality to the complexion, enhancing natural beauty. The key is choosing the right formula and shade that complements mature skin. Follow the blush application method we discussed in the previous section.
Is cream or liquid blush better for mature skin?
For mature skin, hydration and smoothness are paramount. As skin matures, it may become drier and show more texture. This can make some makeup products, especially powders, more challenging to work with. Enter cream and liquid blushes, which are often recommended for those with mature skin for several reasons.
Hydration: Both cream and liquid blushes are formulated to be more hydrating than powder alternatives. This means they not only provide color but also offer a moisturizing effect, preventing skin from looking parched or flat.
Blendability: Thanks to their consistency, both cream and liquid blushes blend effortlessly into the skin. This is vital for mature skin, which may have a combination of fine lines, wrinkles, and possibly uneven texture.
Natural Finish: The goal, especially for mature skin, is often to achieve a fresh, natural look. Cream and liquid blushes can provide a more skin-like finish, mimicking a genuine flush of color.
Is One Better than the Other?
The choice between cream and liquid often comes down to personal preference and desired finish:
Cream Blush: Typically provides a more satin or dewy finish, making it perfect for those with dry or very dry skin. It can be applied with fingers, a brush, or a sponge, depending on the desired intensity.
Product Recommendations:
NARS Cream Blush: Offers a variety of shades and a beautiful finish suitable for mature skin.
Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge: Dual-purpose, can be used on both lips and cheeks, and blends beautifully.
Stila Convertible Color: Long-lasting and comes in a range of flattering shades.
Liquid Blush: These often have a thinner consistency and might provide a more sheer, buildable coverage. They're versatile and can be mixed with foundation or applied over it.
Product Recommendations:
Daniel Sandler Watercolour Liquid Blush: Lightweight, blendable, and offers long-lasting color.
Glossier Cloud Paint: A gel-cream formula that gives a soft, diffused glow.
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush: Offers a weightless, long-lasting finish with a variety of shades suitable for different undertones.
In summary, while both cream and liquid blushes are excellent choices for mature skin, the decision between them often hinges on the specific look one is aiming for and individual skin needs. Trying out a few different formulas can help determine which feels and looks best on your skin.
Best blush for mature skin
Let's take a closer look at these recommended blushes and the reasons they're particularly suited for mature skin.
Best Blush for Mature Skin: A Closer Look
About: This blush formula from NARS is renowned for its velvety texture and radiant finish. It seamlessly blends into the skin, offering a natural, healthy-looking flush.
Why it's Suitable for Mature Skin: Its creamy consistency doesn't emphasize lines or pores. It offers a hydration boost, making the skin appear plumper and more youthful. The color range is also versatile, with shades suitable for a variety of skin tones.
Shade Recommendations: "Orgasm" is a perennial favorite, providing a peachy-pink shimmer that looks good on many. "Cactus Flower" is a beautiful shimmering poppy shade for those wanting something brighter.
Clinique Chubby Stick Cheek Colour Balm
About: This is a creamy, balm-like blush that offers a sheer, buildable color. It's convenient for on-the-go application due to its stick format.
Why it's Suitable for Mature Skin: The formula is incredibly forgiving. It glides on effortlessly without settling into fine lines. Its moisturizing properties ensure that the skin retains a dewy, fresh appearance.
Shade Recommendations: "Roly Poly Rosy" is a universal rose shade that adds a youthful, healthy tint. "Amp’d Up Apple" is another versatile shade, offering a subtle, natural flush.
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores Blush
About: As the name suggests, this blush is designed to blur imperfections, especially pores, giving the skin a smooth, airbrushed finish.
Why it's Suitable for Mature Skin: This blush contains silk, hydrolyzed collagen, antioxidants, and peptides. These ingredients not only provide color but also work to improve skin health. The formula is designed to diffuse the look of pores and fine lines, making it perfect for mature skin.
Shade Recommendations: "Je Ne Sais Quoi" is a soft pink that imparts a youthful glow. "Naturally Pretty" is a more muted, neutral shade that works well for those seeking a subtle lift.
When choosing the best blush for mature skin, the focus should be on products that offer hydration, seamless blending, and don't emphasize pores or fine lines. These recommended products tick all these boxes, making them top choices in the beauty community for mature individuals.
Best cream blush From A drugstore
Let's delve deeper into these drugstore cream blushes and what makes them stand out in the market.
Best Cream Blush from Drugstores: A Detailed Look
Maybelline Cheek Heat Gel-Cream Blush
About: This gel-cream blush from Maybelline boasts a lightweight formula that provides a sheer flush of color. It gives off a natural, dewy finish reminiscent of a fresh, youthful glow.
Why It Stands Out: The water-based gel formula ensures that the blush doesn't feel heavy on the skin. It's buildable, allowing for subtle to more pronounced color based on preference. Plus, the tube packaging is convenient for on-the-go touch-ups.
Shade Recommendations: "Rose Flush" is perfect for a rosy-cheeked look, while "Coral Ember" offers a warm, sun-kissed glow.
NYX Professional Makeup Sweet Cheeks Creamy Powder Blush
About: While this blush is described as a "creamy powder," it provides the best of both worlds. It goes on creamy, offering easy blend-ability, but sets with a powder-like finish.
Why It Stands Out: This blush is long-lasting, thanks to its unique formula that combines the hydration of a cream with the staying power of a powder. It's versatile and suits a range of skin types.
Shade Recommendations: "So Taupe" can double as a contour shade for lighter skin tones, while "Day Dream" provides a universally flattering peachy hue.
The beauty of drugstore makeup products is that they often rival their higher-end counterparts in quality but come at a fraction of the price. These cream blushes are a testament to that, providing quality performance and a range of color options for all skin tones and preferences.
Best tools for applying cream or liquid blush to mature skin
Applying liquid or cream blush on mature skin requires tools that ensure seamless blending and a natural finish. The tools should be gentle on the skin while delivering optimal results. Here are the best tools for the task:
Fingers: Your fingers are one of the best tools for applying cream and liquid blushes. The warmth of your fingers helps the product melt and blend into the skin for a natural finish. This method is especially useful for products with thicker consistencies.
How to Use: Dab a bit of the product on your fingers, smile, and tap it onto your cheeks, blending upwards and outwards.
Sponge Beauty Blender or Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge:
Benefits: A sponge ensures even distribution, absorbs excess product, and blends the blush seamlessly into the skin. It's particularly great for liquid formulas or when aiming for a sheer application.
How to Use: Dampen the sponge, squeeze out excess water, dab into the product, and then press and bounce onto the skin. Blend by tapping for a diffused look.
Benefits: This brush has a mix of dense and more spaced-out bristles, making it ideal for lightweight, airbrushed application. It's excellent for both cream and liquid formulas.
How to Use: Dip the brush lightly into the product, stipple onto the skin, and then use circular motions to blend.
Synthetic Flat or Angled Foundation Brush:
Benefits: These brushes have densely packed bristles that provide precise application. They're great for cream blushes and can also be used for contouring.
How to Use: Swipe the brush in the product, then apply in sweeping and tapping motions on the skin, blending well.
Benefits: It combines two fiber types, allowing for both product pick-up and blending. This ensures a controlled and blended application.
How to Use: Swirl the brush in the product and apply using circular motions for a blended finish.
Benefits: With its dense bristles, it's great for buffing product into the skin for a natural, diffused look.
How to Use: After picking up the product, apply in circular buffing motions.
Additional Tips for Mature Skin:
Preparation: Ensure the skin is well-moisturized. This provides a smooth base, allowing the blush to glide on and blend more seamlessly.
Less is More: Start with a small amount of product and build up if needed. It's easier to add than to subtract.
Placement: For a lifting effect, avoid applying directly to the apples of the cheeks; instead, aim for the cheekbones or slightly below.
Remember, the best tool might vary based on personal preferences and specific product formulations. It's worth experimenting to find what delivers the desired results for your individual skin and makeup routine.
Bronzer for Mature Skin
What is the purpose of bronzer?
Bronzer is primarily used to add warmth and dimension to the skin. It helps mimic a sun-kissed glow, making the skin look radiant and healthy. It's also used to define and contour the face by emphasizing the high points where the sun would naturally hit.
Should mature skin wear bronzer?
Mature skin can definitely wear bronzer. In fact, bronzer can help add warmth and bring back some vitality to the skin, which might look duller as we age. It can also create the illusion of lifted cheeks and a more defined face. However, it's essential to choose the right shade and formula, ensuring it's blended well to achieve a natural look. Let’s dive into the best options for mature skin now.
Is cream or powder bronzer better for mature skin?
Cream bronzer is often recommended for mature skin. Cream formulas blend seamlessly, provide hydration, and are less likely to settle into fine lines or accentuate dry patches compared to powder bronzers. However, if someone has oily skin, a matte powder bronzer might be preferable, provided it's finely milled and applied with a light hand.
Best bronzer for mature skin?
One of the top-rated bronzers for mature skin is the Chanel Les Beiges Bronzing Cream. This cream-gel bronzer offers a subtle warmth that looks incredibly natural. It's buildable, blends effortlessly, and has a lightweight formula that sits comfortably on mature skin. Another recommendation is Fenty Beauty Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Bronzer, which is a light-as-air, non-greasy cream bronzer that effortlessly melts into skin for a natural-looking bronze or soft contour - in 7 no-fuss shades for all skin tones.
What is the best drugstore bronzer for mature skin?
These options stand out for their quality, finish, and versatility, providing mature skin with a radiant and youthful appearance without stretching the budget.
Physicians Formula Butter Bronzer is a standout in the drugstore category. Its unique formula, rich with Murumuru butter, cupuaçu butter, and tucuma butter, ensures a moisturizing effect and allows for a smooth application. The bronzer has a soft, velvety texture that lends the skin a radiant, sun-kissed glow without being overly glittery. The diverse range of shades it offers ensures that individuals of various skin tones can find a natural match.
Wet n Wild Color Icon Bronzer offers a blendable and buildable formula. Its infusion with natural ingredients like chamomile and meadowfoam seed oil makes it stand out. These not only help soothe the skin but also provide a moisturizing effect. The bronzer has a matte finish, allowing it to double up for subtle contouring, ensuring a natural warmth to the face.
Lastly, Rimmel London Jelly Bronzer is a jelly-based formula with a unique texture that leaves the skin feeling weightless and offers a fresh-feeling finish. By layering up the bronzer across the face, one can achieve a sun-kissed finish that imparts a radiant, sunkissed glow. This approach enhances the skin's natural beauty and serves as an easy method to define features and add dimension to the face.
Where do you put bronzer on a mature face?
When applying bronzer to mature skin, the goal is to uplift and add warmth. Start by lightly sweeping the bronzer on the high points of your face, where the sun naturally hits – the top of the forehead, cheekbones, and bridge of the nose. For a lifting effect, focus the bronzer slightly above the hollows of the cheeks. You can also lightly apply it along the jawline and sides of the neck to create dimension. Remember, blending is crucial for a seamless look.
Can I wear bronzer as blush?
Bronzer can certainly be used as a blush for a warm, sun-kissed effect. It's important to consider the placement for mature skin to enhance and lift the features.
Rather than applying it to the apples of the cheeks, which can accentuate sagging or make the face look droopy, it's advised to apply bronzer directly to the cheekbones or slightly beneath them. This placement defines and sculpts the face, providing a lifted appearance. Blending well is key to ensure there are no harsh lines, creating a natural and youthful look.
Do you have any additional questions about products, blush, and bronzer for mature skin? What is your favorite blush? Let me know in the comments below!