The Importance of Hydration and Formula
As we age, our lips naturally lose volume and moisture, and fine lines can become more prominent. The type of lipstick formula and finish you choose is the single most important factor for achieving a polished, comfortable, and age-defying look. Instead of focusing on products designed for intense, opaque coverage, the goal is to enhance and nourish.
Embrace Hydration: Cream, Satin, and Sheer Finishes
- Cream and Satin Lipsticks: These formulas are infused with moisturizing ingredients like oils and butters, which prevent the lipstick from settling into fine lines. The soft, luminous finish reflects light, creating the illusion of fuller, smoother lips. Look for formulas containing hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, or argan oil for an extra boost of moisture.
- Sheer and Tinted Balms: For a casual, low-maintenance look, a tinted lip balm is an excellent choice. They offer a wash of color while providing continuous hydration. This option is particularly forgiving and easy to reapply throughout the day without a mirror.
- Lip Glosses: While some glosses can feel sticky, modern formulas are lightweight and non-tacky. A swipe of gloss, especially over the center of the lips, can make them appear more plump and youthful. Use a sheer gloss to top off a cream lipstick for added dimension.
Avoid Heavy Mattes and Frosty Shimmers
Matte lipsticks, especially long-wearing liquid formulas, are notorious for their drying properties. On mature lips, they can emphasize every fine line and texture, often leading to a chalky or parched appearance. Similarly, lipsticks with a heavy, frosted, or metallic shimmer can settle into creases and draw unwanted attention to texture. A subtle, light-reflecting satin is a far more flattering choice.
Discovering Your Most Flattering Shade
Beyond the finish, finding the right color is crucial. The best shades for mature skin tend to be those that provide a natural flush of color without being too harsh or dark. Your skin's undertone—warm, cool, or neutral—is the key to unlocking your most flattering colors.
Finding Your Undertone
- Cool Undertones: If the veins on your wrist appear blue or purple, and silver jewelry looks best on you, you likely have cool undertones. Pinks, mauves, and berry shades will be your best friends. Think soft rose, raspberry, and cool pinks.
- Warm Undertones: If your veins look greenish, and gold jewelry flatters your skin, you have warm undertones. Corals, peachy pinks, and warm nudes will look stunning. Shades like cinnamon and apricot are also excellent choices.
- Neutral Undertones: If your veins appear to be a mix of both blue and green, you have a neutral undertone, giving you the freedom to experiment with both warm and cool-toned shades. Rosewood and dusty pinks are particularly versatile.
Light vs. Dark: A Balancing Act
- Lighter, brighter shades tend to make lips look fuller, while very dark shades can have a thinning effect. This doesn't mean you can't wear a bold color; just opt for a richer, more saturated hue rather than a deep, muted one. A classic red with a creamy finish can be incredibly vibrant and elegant.
Masterful Application Techniques
Even the best lipstick won't perform well without proper preparation and application. These extra steps are essential for preventing feathering and ensuring longevity.
- Exfoliate Gently: Use a soft toothbrush or a dedicated lip scrub to gently buff away any dry, flaky skin. This creates a smooth canvas for application.
- Hydrate and Prime: Apply a moisturizing lip balm and let it absorb fully. You can also use a lip primer specifically designed to fill in lines and prevent bleeding.
- Define with Liner: Lip liner is non-negotiable for mature lips. Choose a liner that matches your natural lip color or the lipstick shade. This creates a barrier that keeps color from migrating into fine lines. Trace just along the outer edge of your natural lip line for subtle definition.
- Fill and Blend: Fill in your entire lip with the liner to create a base for your lipstick. This adds staying power and helps the color blend seamlessly. Use a lip brush to apply the lipstick from the tube for greater precision.
- Set the Color: For extra longevity, lightly blot your lips with a tissue, then apply a second layer of lipstick.
Comparison: Choosing the Right Lipstick for Mature Lips
| Feature | Cream/Satin Lipstick | Matte Lipstick |
|---|---|---|
| Finish | Soft, luminous, light-reflecting | Flat, opaque, no-shine |
| Effect on Lips | Makes lips appear smoother, fuller, and more hydrated | Can emphasize fine lines and texture, may appear drying |
| Comfort | Highly moisturizing and comfortable for all-day wear | Can be drying and uncomfortable, especially with long-wear formulas |
| Feathering | Can sometimes feather, but easily prevented with lip liner | Less prone to feathering due to drier consistency, but can still bleed |
| Ideal For | Daily wear, revitalizing dullness, creating a plump look | A very precise, bold statement, but requires extra prep for mature lips |
For most women over 70, a creamy or satin-finish lipstick is the most forgiving and flattering choice, prioritizing comfort and a healthy, radiant appearance.
Conclusion: Celebrate Your Beauty
At 70 and beyond, makeup should be about celebration, not correction. The right lipstick, combined with proper preparation and technique, can be a powerful tool for self-expression and confidence. By choosing hydrating formulas in shades that brighten your face, you can create a timeless and elegant look that truly celebrates your natural beauty.
Outbound Link: Learn more about mature skin and cosmetic science from this reputable resource: AARP: The Best Makeup Tips for Mature Skin
Key Takeaways
Hydration is paramount: Choose creamy, hydrating formulas over drying mattes to keep lips smooth and comfortable. Finishes matter: Satin, sheer, or gloss finishes are most flattering as they reflect light and minimize the appearance of fine lines. Color is personal: Find your best shades by determining your skin's undertone, opting for colors that brighten your complexion. Prep is non-negotiable: Exfoliate and use a lip liner to prevent feathering and ensure a clean, lasting look. Less is often more: Focus on enhancing your natural beauty with lightweight, buildable formulas rather than heavy, opaque products. Confidence is key: The best lipstick is the one that makes you feel vibrant and confident, no matter the color or brand.
FAQs
Q: What are the best lipstick finishes for a 70 year old? A: Cream, satin, and sheer finishes are best because they are hydrating and reflect light, which makes mature lips appear smoother and fuller without emphasizing fine lines.
Q: Can a 70 year old wear red lipstick? A: Absolutely. The key is to choose a red with a creamy, moisturizing finish that complements your skin's undertone. Pair it with a matching lip liner to prevent feathering and ensure a clean application.
Q: How can I stop my lipstick from bleeding into fine lines? A: Use a lip primer or fill in your entire lip with a nude or matching lip liner before applying your lipstick. A cream or satin formula is less likely to bleed than a matte one.
Q: What color lipstick should a 70 year old wear if their lips are thinning? A: Lighter, brighter shades like soft pinks, peaches, and berry tones are best for creating the illusion of fuller lips. Avoid very dark shades, which can make lips appear smaller.
Q: Is lip liner still necessary for a 70 year old? A: Yes, lip liner is highly recommended. It creates a barrier to prevent feathering and provides a base that helps the lipstick stay on longer, which is particularly useful for older lips.
Q: How can I choose a lipstick that doesn't make my teeth look yellow? A: Opt for lipsticks with blue or cool undertones. These shades, such as berry reds or cool pinks, can counteract yellow tones and make your teeth appear whiter. Avoid orange or yellow-based lipsticks.
Q: Are lip oils a good alternative to lipstick for a 70 year old? A: Yes, lip oils are an excellent option. They offer a sheer wash of color and intense hydration, making lips look supple and healthy. They are very forgiving and comfortable for everyday wear.
