Should over 60s wear mascara on lower lashes? The ultimate guide

According to celebrity makeup artists, heavy mascara on lower lashes can sometimes accentuate fine lines and dark circles, potentially aging the eye area. So, should over 60s wear mascara on lower lashes? The answer isn't a simple yes or no, but rather depends on technique, product choice, and personal preference.

Quick Summary

This guide explores the best practices for applying mascara to lower lashes for women over 60. It covers subtle application techniques, the right products to use, and when to avoid it, ensuring a flattering look that enhances the eyes without drawing attention to wrinkles or smudging.

Key Points

• Lighter is better: Apply a very light coat of mascara to the lower lashes to avoid a heavy, droopy look.

• Choose lengthening or tubing formulas: Opt for formulas that focus on length and separation, or use tubing mascaras to prevent smudging and flaking.

• Consider softer shades: A rich brown or black-brown mascara can create a softer, more natural effect compared to harsh black.

• Apply with precision: Use a smaller wand or hold the wand vertically, focusing on the outer lashes for a lifting effect.

• Prevent smudging with primer and powder: Prep the under-eye area with eye primer and a light dusting of translucent powder to prevent mascara transfer.

• Explore alternatives: If mascara still causes issues, consider a lash tint, a soft eyeshadow liner, or a subtle brown pencil for definition.

To wear or not to wear: Deciding on lower lash mascara over 60

The question of whether to apply mascara to the lower lashes is a frequent point of debate in the mature beauty community. While a youthful look might embrace a full coating, for women over 60, heavy mascara on the bottom can sometimes create a droopy effect or emphasize dark circles and fine lines. The key is understanding how to approach this delicate area to achieve a bright, open-eyed look rather than a harsh or aging one. The good news is that for many, a light and careful application is still very much an option.

The risks of heavy lower lash mascara

Several factors make a heavy-handed approach to lower lash mascara less ideal for mature eyes:

• Emphasizes fine lines and wrinkles: As skin around the eyes thins with age, a thick line of dark mascara can draw direct attention to creases, making them appear more prominent.
• Creates a droopy illusion: Thick, dark lower lashes can pull the focus downwards, giving the eyes a tired or droopy appearance.
• Increases smudging and flaking: Natural eye oils and tearing can break down mascara formulas, leading to smudges and flakes that gather in under-eye creases. This is especially true if you wear glasses.
• Accentuates dark circles: For those with undereye discoloration, a dark mascara on the lower lash line can deepen the appearance of shadows, creating a more fatigued look.

Techniques for a softer, more youthful look

If you still enjoy the balance and definition that bottom lash mascara provides, specific techniques can help you achieve the look without the drawbacks:

• Go for less: A light touch is best. Wipe the excess product off the wand before application.
• Use the right angle: Hold the wand vertically to apply, using just the tip to lightly define individual lashes instead of sweeping horizontally. This gives more control and prevents clumping.
• Focus on the outer corner: Concentrating mascara on the outer half of the lower lashes helps to create a lifted, cat-eye effect that draws the eye upwards.
• Choose a softer shade: Switching from jet black to a rich brown or a black-brown mascara can make a significant difference. Brown mascara provides softer definition, especially for those with fairer skin or thinning lashes.
• Use a tubing formula: For those prone to smudging, tubing mascaras are an excellent choice. They form water-resistant polymer tubes around each lash and remove easily with warm water, minimizing the risk of raccoon eyes.

Comparison table: Mascara options for mature lower lashes

Feature	Traditional Volumizing Mascara	Lengthening Mascara	Tubing Mascara	Brown Mascara
Effect on lower lashes	Can look heavy, clumpy, and potentially droopy.	Defines and separates lashes naturally without weighing them down.	Creates smudge-proof, lightweight length and volume.	Provides a softer, less harsh definition than black.
Best for mature eyes	Generally not recommended due to emphasis on lines and circles.	Good choice for a subtle, natural daytime look.	Excellent for preventing smudging and flaking throughout the day.	Ideal for a more natural, subtle enhancement, especially for fair complexions.
Application risk	High risk of clumping and smudging on mature skin.	Lower risk of clumping and smudging.	Very low risk of smudging due to polymer technology.	Minimal risk of looking harsh or heavy.
Removal	Can require rubbing, which can irritate delicate eye area.	Standard makeup remover often sufficient.	Easily removed with warm water—no harsh tugging required.	Easy to remove with gentle cleanser.

Alternatives to traditional lower lash mascara

For those who prefer to skip mascara on their bottom lashes altogether, several alternatives can still provide definition and balance to the eyes:

• Lash Tints: A professional lash tint can darken lighter bottom lashes for 4–6 weeks, providing a subtle, no-makeup look without the risk of smudging.
• Eyeshadow as liner: Use a small, angled brush to apply a soft brown or gray eyeshadow along the lower lash line. This provides a diffused, smoke-like definition that is much softer than mascara.
• Lighter-colored eyeliner: A pencil liner in a soft brown or taupe can be used to lightly tightline the lower lash line. Avoid liquid or gel formulas, which can look harsh.
• Mascara primer only: Some mature beauty enthusiasts use only a clear or white mascara primer on their lower lashes. This provides a subtle definition without adding dark pigment.

Conclusion

There is no hard-and-fast rule that states women over 60 must avoid mascara on their lower lashes. The decision ultimately depends on your personal eye shape, desired look, and tolerance for potential smudging. If you choose to wear it, focusing on technique is paramount. A light application with a lengthening or tubing formula, perhaps in a soft brown shade, can enhance your eyes beautifully without aging you. By understanding the pros and cons and exploring different techniques and product options, you can make an informed choice that helps you feel confident and fabulous at any age. Embracing a softer approach can often yield the most flattering and youthful results, proving that when it comes to mature eye makeup, less really can be more.

Expert resources

For further reading on makeup application for mature skin, consult guides from authoritative sources like the AARP. Their article "10 Top Eye Makeup Tips and Techniques for Older Women" offers comprehensive advice on enhancing mature eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does mascara on the bottom lashes make you look older?

Heavy, clumpy mascara on the bottom lashes can emphasize fine lines and dark circles, which may make the eyes look older or droopier. However, a light touch with a lengthening or brown mascara can be flattering and brighten the eyes.

What is the best way to apply mascara to lower lashes for women over 60?

For a subtle, flattering look, wipe excess product off the wand first. Hold the brush vertically and wiggle it gently at the roots of the lashes, focusing on the outer corners. This adds definition without weighing them down.

What color mascara is best for mature lower lashes?

For many women over 60, brown or black-brown mascara is recommended for the lower lashes. These shades offer a softer, more natural look than jet black, which can appear too harsh.

How can I prevent mascara from smudging on my under-eye area?

To prevent smudging, use a tubing or waterproof mascara formula, or apply an eye primer and a light dusting of translucent powder to the under-eye area before application. Avoid heavy eye creams in the morning.

Are tubing mascaras a good choice for mature eyes?

Yes, tubing mascaras are an excellent choice. They form tiny, smudge-proof tubes around each lash that are easily removed with warm water, reducing the need for harsh rubbing that can irritate the delicate eye area.

Should I still curl my eyelashes after 60?

Yes, curling your upper lashes can instantly make your eyes appear more open and awake. Some prefer a gentle finger curl or heated curler, as manual curlers can sometimes be harsh on thinning lashes.

What is a good alternative to wearing mascara on my bottom lashes?

Alternative options include using a soft brown or gray eyeshadow as a subtle liner, getting a professional lash tint, or lightly defining the lower lash line with a brown pencil eyeliner.