Eyeliner For Older Women: Tips to Give Lift & Definition

As we gracefully age, our beauty routine may have to evolve to suit our changing skin and style needs. But one area that often raises questions is eyeliner. How can we achieve a youthful and defined look without overpowering our delicate, ageing features? Beauty Daily spoke to Clarins Retail Trainer Jason Roberts to find out how to achieve the perfect eyeliner for people with mature skin. 

Best eyeliners for women over 40 

According to Roberts, a thinner formula works best on older skin: “A thin eyeliner which is applied close to the lash line works well on older skin, as it usually gives definition without making the eye spear small,” he says. “I’d also recommend using eye shadows applied with a tight line angle brush to create eyeliner using matte earthy tones.”  

Pencil eyeliners 

Pencil eyeliners tend to be fool-proof and are an excellent choice for older women because they offer a forgiving application. The Clarins Crayon Kohl Eyeliner, £21, glides smoothly along the lash line, allowing you to create a subtle definition that won’t overpower your features. It’s perfect for achieving a soft and smoky effect without any hassle. 

Gel eyeliners 

For those seeking a long-lasting and smudge-proof option, gel eyeliners are a great choice. They allow for easy application, giving you ample time to create the perfect line before it sets. Try and reach for a waterproof formula, which will ensure your liner stays in place – even during emotional moments or rainy days! 

Liquid eyeliners 

If precision is your priority, liquid eyeliners are your go-to. The Clarins Graphik Ink Eyeliner, £22, features a fine brush applicator that effortlessly glides along the lash line, allowing you to create precise lines with ease. Whether you prefer a subtle flick or a bold cat-eye, this liquid liner provides the flexibility to achieve any desired look while offering a long-lasting formula that won’t smudge or fade. 

Felt tip eyeliners 

Felt tip eyeliners combine the ease of a pencil with the precision of a liquid liner, making them another good choice for mature skin. The Clarins 3-Dot Liner, £22, has a unique triple-dot applicator, which allows you to dot and connect lines effortlessly. The result is a flawless and defined look that lifts your eyes, giving them a more youthful appearance. 

Read next: Eye make-up for over 50s: Your complete guide 

Eyeliner tips for women over 60 

Age should never hinder us from embracing the power of eyeliner. Here are some essential tips for applying eyeliner if you’re over 60: 

Use a light hand 

Delicate skin requires a gentle touch. Avoid applying excessive pressure when lining your eyes to prevent discomfort and potential skin damage. 

Opt for a thin brush 

Using a thin brush helps you apply eyeliner more accurately, allowing you to achieve precise lines effortlessly. 

Choose brown or black eyeliner 

These classic colours provide a timeless look and lend a touch of youthfulness to your eyes. 

Focus on the top lid 

By applying eyeliner to the top lid only, you create the illusion of larger, more awake eyes. 

Embrace waterproof formulas 

Invest in a waterproof eyeliner to ensure it stays in place throughout the day, combatting any potential smudging or smearing. 

How should an older woman wear eyeliner? 

When it comes to wearing eyeliner as an older woman, subtlety is key. Opt for a light hand and choose soft, natural-looking shades that enhance your features without overpowering them. Pencil eyeliners are user-friendly and easier to apply than liquid liners. Begin by drawing a thin line along the top of your lash line, gradually thickening it as desired. This technique creates a refined and youthful look while still allowing you to experiment with different styles. 

Read next: The best eyeliner tips for hooded eyes 

What eyeliner colours are best for older women? 

While black remains a classic choice, there are a few other eyeliner colours that work exceptionally well for older women. Brown provides a softer and more natural appearance, complementing various skin tones. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with vibrant hues like purple or green. Just remember to choose shades that harmonise with your eye colour and skin tone, as this ensures a harmonious and polished look. “Try grey, charcoal or plum as a modern, flattering alternative to black or brown,” says Jason. 

How do you do an eyeliner flick on older eyes? 

Achieving the perfect eyeliner flick, or wing, on older eyes requires the right technique and tools. Opt for a soft and easy-to-apply gel liner and use a fine-pointed eyeliner brush. Start at the inner corner of the eye and draw a thin line along the lash line towards the outer corner. Then, using the brush, create a small flick at the end. This technique lifts and elongates the eyes, providing a youthful and elegant touch. 

Expert tip: Start by mapping out the shape you want with an eye shadow and an angle brush, then trace over with a pencil and clean up with a cotton bud and concealer.  

How old is too old to wear winged eyeliner? 

The timeless question of age appropriateness! Personal style and comfort are paramount when it comes to make-up choices. While some may argue that winged eyeliner is more suited to younger eyes, others believe there is no age limit to embracing this classic winged liner look. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what makes you feel confident and beautiful. 

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