The Case for Eyeliner at Any Age
Makeup isn't about hiding age; it's about enhancing features and expressing personal style. The idea that certain products are off-limits after a certain age is outdated. For women over 60, the motivation to wear eyeliner might be to define eyes that have become less prominent or to simply continue a cherished daily ritual. The key isn't whether to wear it, but how to adapt your application for a more mature canvas.
The Changing Canvas: How Mature Skin Affects Eyeliner
With age, the skin around the eyes undergoes several changes that affect how eyeliner sits and wears throughout the day.
Common Skin Changes Around the Eyes
- Loss of Elasticity: The skin loses collagen and elastin, leading to a thinner, less taut surface. This can cause eyeliner to skip or drag.
- Hooded Lids: As eyelids lose firmness, they can droop and become more hooded. A thick, heavy line may disappear or make eyes look smaller.
- Fine Lines and Creases: Creases can cause eyeliner to smudge or bleed, blurring the intended crisp line.
- Drier Skin: The area can become drier, impacting product longevity and application smoothness.
Understanding these changes is the first step toward a successful and flattering eyeliner look.
Modern Eyeliner Techniques for a Flattering Look
Instead of the sharp, dramatic lines of youth, a softer approach often yields more elegant results. Here are a few techniques to try:
Tightlining: The Ultimate Mature Eye Trick
This technique involves applying eyeliner directly to the upper waterline, the area beneath the lashes. It creates the illusion of thicker, fuller lashes and defined eyes without a visible line on the eyelid itself. It's subtle, effective, and works wonders for hooded lids.
- Hold a hand mirror and look down into it.
- Gently lift your eyelid to expose the waterline.
- Use a waterproof, smudge-proof pencil to dot or gently glide the liner along the waterline.
Softly Smudged Lines
Heavy, harsh lines can look dated and draw attention to fine lines. A softer, smudged line can provide definition and a modern feel.
- Apply a thin line: Use a pencil or gel liner and apply a thin line as close to the lash line as possible.
- Immediately smudge: Before it sets, use a small, dense brush or a cotton swab to softly smudge the line, diffusing the color for a smokeier effect.
Opt for Softer Colors
While black eyeliner is a classic, it can sometimes be too stark on mature skin. Consider softer alternatives that still provide definition.
- Charcoal Gray: A softer version of black that's less harsh.
- Deep Brown: A flattering, natural-looking shade for most eye colors.
- Navy Blue: A subtle way to make the whites of the eyes appear brighter.
Choosing the Right Eyeliner Products
Product formulation is crucial for mature skin. Look for products designed for easy application and long-lasting wear without tugging.
Pencil vs. Liquid vs. Gel: A Comparison
| Feature | Pencil Eyeliner | Liquid Eyeliner | Gel Eyeliner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | High. Great for beginners and smudging. | Low. Requires a steady hand and practice. | Medium. Applied with a brush, offers precision. |
| Longevity | Medium. Prone to smudging unless waterproof. | High. Excellent staying power, but can crack. | High. Stays put well, flexible formula. |
| Best For... | Soft, smudged looks and tightlining. | Crisp, sharp lines (can be too harsh). | Precise lines with a softer finish than liquid. |
| Mature Skin | Excellent. Less drag, easy to control. | Poor. Can tug and emphasize fine lines. | Good. Creamy formula glides smoothly. |
Primer: The Secret to Longevity
An eyeshadow primer isn't just for shadow; it's a lifesaver for eyeliner. It creates a smooth base, prevents creasing, and keeps your liner in place all day.
A Step-by-Step Eyeliner Application Guide
- Prep the eye: Start with a clean canvas. Apply a thin layer of eyeshadow primer over the eyelid and up to the brow bone. This creates a smooth base and helps your eyeliner last longer.
- Define with shadow (optional): For a super soft look, use a deep brown or gray eyeshadow and a small angled brush to press the color along your upper lash line. This is a very subtle way to create definition.
- Apply the liner: Choose a waterproof pencil or gel liner. Begin at the outer corner of the eye and apply in short, gentle strokes, wiggling the pencil into the lash line. Work your way inward, keeping the line as thin as possible.
- Soften the line: Take a small, stiff brush and gently smudge the liner you just applied. Concentrate on the outer corners to create a subtle lift. This step is key to avoiding a harsh look.
- Finish with mascara: Curl your lashes and apply mascara. This will further enhance the defined look and draw attention upwards, away from the lash line.
Expert Insights and Best Practices
Many makeup artists specialize in techniques for mature skin, emphasizing a lighter touch and strategic placement. For example, some recommend focusing the liner only on the outer two-thirds of the eye to create a subtle lift without closing off the eye. Keeping tools clean and using sharp, hygienic pencils is also crucial for eye health, especially as eyes can become more sensitive with age. You can find more expert recommendations and tips on applying makeup to mature skin from industry leaders like Allure magazine here.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Style with Confidence
Ultimately, the decision to wear eyeliner after 60 is a personal one. The myth that makeup has an age limit is just that—a myth. By adapting your technique to suit your changing skin, choosing the right products, and focusing on a softer, more flattering application, you can continue to enjoy eyeliner as a tool for self-expression and enhanced beauty. So, go ahead, define those eyes and wear your look with the confidence that comes with experience and wisdom.
