Age is Just a Number: Embracing Eyeliner After 65
The question of whether a 65-year-old woman should wear eyeliner is rooted in an outdated idea that there are rules for beauty based on age. The truth is, makeup, including eyeliner, is a personal choice and a form of creative expression. Rather than focusing on whether you should wear it, the more empowering question is how to wear it in a way that enhances your unique features and makes you feel confident. As skin changes with age, the techniques and products you use can be adapted to achieve a fresh, sophisticated look, steering clear of methods that may no longer be as flattering.
The Allure of Eyeliner on Mature Eyes
For many women, eyelashes can become sparser and lighter with age, which can make the eyes appear less defined. Eyeliner serves a crucial function by providing that definition back to the lash line, making the eyes pop and appear more awake. It creates the illusion of thicker, fuller lashes and adds a polished finish to any makeup look. The key is to avoid harsh, heavy lines that can settle into fine lines or make the eyes appear smaller. Instead, opt for a softer, more diffused approach.
Techniques for a Flattering Eyeliner Look
Applying eyeliner on mature eyelids, which may have some crepiness or hooded skin, requires a gentle touch and specific techniques to ensure a smooth, long-lasting finish. Here are some expert-approved methods:
Tightlining: The Secret to Fuller Lashes
Tightlining is a technique that involves applying eyeliner right into the base of the upper lash line, under the lashes. This creates an incredibly natural-looking definition that makes your lashes appear much fuller from the root, without creating a harsh line on the eyelid itself. This is especially effective for hooded eyes, as it doesn't take up any precious mobile lid space. Use a waterproof, creamy pencil for this technique and gently wiggle it between the roots of your upper lashes.
The Soft, Smudged Line
Rather than a sharp, graphic line, a soft, smudged line is often more forgiving and flattering on mature skin. After applying your eyeliner (a creamy pencil works best), use a small, angled brush or a cotton bud to gently smudge the line. This diffuses the color, preventing it from settling into fine lines and creating a smoky, sophisticated effect. The effect is particularly beautiful when using softer shades like brown or charcoal gray.
The Eyeliner Flick for a Lifted Look
A well-executed eyeliner flick can lift and elongate the eye. The trick for mature eyes is to do this with your eyes open, looking straight ahead into a mirror. This ensures the line follows the natural lift of your eye rather than getting distorted by hooded skin. Create a small upward flick from the outer corner, then connect it back to the lash line. Keep the flick short and subtle—a gentle lift is all you need for a modern, elegant finish. You can find excellent visual guides on how to do this for hooded eyes on authoritative beauty websites like Byrdie.
Choosing the Right Eyeliner
The formula of your eyeliner is just as important as the technique you use. The wrong product can drag and pull at delicate skin, while the right one glides on smoothly and stays put all day.
- Creamy Pencils: These are often the best choice for mature skin. Look for formulas with moisturizing ingredients that glide on without tugging. They are easy to smudge for a softer look and provide excellent control.
- Gel Liners: Applied with a fine brush, gel liners can offer precise application and long-wearing, smudge-proof results. Choose a formula that dries down quickly to prevent transfer.
- Liquid Liners: While some prefer the bold look of liquid, it can be too harsh for many mature eyes. Liquid formulas can settle into wrinkles and are less forgiving for mistakes. If you choose a liquid, opt for a fine-tipped pen that allows for a thin, precise line.
Comparison of Eyeliner Types for Mature Skin
| Feature | Creamy Pencil Eyeliner | Gel Eyeliner | Liquid Eyeliner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Very easy, forgiving for smudging | Good, but requires a separate brush | Difficult, unforgiving of mistakes |
| Finish | Soft, diffused, and natural | Precise and long-lasting | Sharp and graphic |
| Best For | Daily wear, softer looks | Defining and long-wear | Bold, graphic statements |
| Lid Crepiness | Excellent, won't settle into lines | Good, but can crack if not set | Poor, tends to feather and settle |
| Tugging | Minimal to none with creamy formulas | Depends on formula; needs light touch | Can pull and tug on delicate skin |
Colors that Flatter
While classic black is always an option, softer shades often look more harmonious on mature complexions. Browns, charcoal grays, and navies can provide definition without the harshness of black. These colors can also make the whites of your eyes appear brighter. Experiment to see which color best complements your skin tone and eye color.
The Final Word on Eyeliner After 65
Ultimately, whether a 65-year-old woman should wear eyeliner is a question of preference. There are no strict rules. By choosing the right products and adapting your technique, eyeliner can be a powerful tool for self-expression and for enhancing your natural beauty. The most important thing is to feel confident and comfortable in your own skin, with or without makeup. The goal is not to look younger, but to look and feel your best at every stage of life.
