9 Best Eyeshadows for Older Skin
Makeup trends and eyeshadow colors go in and out of style. At our age, we have seen many of these trends come and go and sometimes even come back.
I went through phases where there were periods when I couldn’t leave the house without a full face of makeup, and that included eyeshadow. There were other times when I went most days with minimal makeup.
Yes, I went through the super bright and shimmery colors of the 80s. No regrets! The photos of those years – neatly tucked into photo albums – remind me of my youth and adventurous experimentation.
Now, being over 50 and pretty settled in my style and confidence, I still enjoy experimenting with makeup. But I find that there are a few things I need to keep in mind regarding my makeup choices.
Let’s face it, our 50+ eyes have seen a lot but are not what they used to be. Chances are your lids have developed lines and spots, and eyeshadow doesn’t sit as well as it used to. Join the club.
Finding that perfect eyeshadow that will not crease and make my eyes look smaller has been an onward quest in the last few years.
Here is our list of the top Eyeshadows for Older Skin:
- MAKEUP BY MARIO Ethereal Eyes Eyeshadow Palette – Sephora’s exclusive LIMITED EDITION eyeshadow palette by Mario features 12 signature shades with various finishes.
- All About Shadow™ Quad from Clinique – crease- and fade-resistant and is super easy to apply.
- Naturally Pretty Essentials Matte Luxe Transforming Eyeshadow Palette by It Cosmetics – six anti-aging shadows that, with a tap of the bonus Transforming Hello Light shade, transform from matte to radiant satin.
- Cover Shot Eye Shadow Palette Minimalist by Smashbox – a perfect matte eyeshadow kit with rich natural colors that look great on mature skin.
- No Shimmer Eye Shade Trio from Look Fabulous Forever – cold-color palette specifically created with older women in mind.
- RMS beauty Eye Polish – cream eyeshadow with a slight shimmer.
- PRO LONGWEAR PAINT POT by MAC – comes in several natural colors and can be worn solo or combined with complementary shades.
- THE MATTE BAR EYESHADOW PALETTE from Maybelline – offers 10 matte shades at a price that won’t break the bank.
- Revlon PhotoReady Eye Contour Kit – A classic favorite that includes application instructions for different eye shapes.
Prep the Eyes with a Primer
You may never have heard of eyelid primers before, but they are crucial at our age to make sure that the color stays put and doesn’t create creases.
Kerrin Jackson, a professional film and television makeup artist for 25 years who recently had her third Emmy Nomination for her work on the Netflix show Hollywood says:
“The first step of any makeup application is skin preparation. Hydration is the key. For your eyes, an eye cream and an under eye primer can work wonders.”
She recommends Anastasia Beverly Hills Eye Primer.
“I particularly like it on a more mature eyelid as it’s a light color. This works by helping your eye base act as a highlight to begin with, and also to help open your eyes up before you’ve even applied any eyeshadow,” says Kerrin.
The texture is rich and creamy and “smooths the surface of your lid to help create an even canvas for your eyeshadow. It will also help keep your makeup lasting all day long.”
Cream vs Powder
There are two types of eyeshadows: cream and powder. This is a highly debated question when it comes to older skin. Some swear by cream eyeshadows that glide on easily, and others prefer the more conventional powder eyeshadows.
It all depends on your eyelid, skin, and lifestyle. Cream eyeshadows are not recommended for women who have a lot of wrinkling or who have hooded eyes. This can cause unflattering creasing.
Powder eyeshadow can be slightly moistened for a more intense color.
Matte vs Shimmer
Almost all makeup artists will agree that matte and low-shimmer eyeshadows are better suited for mature women’s skin. Shimmery and frosty eyeshadows tend to accentuate wrinkles. But you do you, and if you enjoy shimmery eyeshadow read our article SHOULD YOU SHUN SHIMMER EYE MAKEUP AFTER 50? CHECK OUT THESE 5 SUGGESTIONS to discover tips and tricks to apply it properly.
Best Color Eyeshadows for Older Women
The colors you choose will depend on your skin tone, hair color, and preference. We tend to gravitate towards warmer browns, greys, and natural tones as opposed to bright blues and purples as we get older because this can make us look overdone and actually make us look older than our actual years.
When I say “overdone” I mean applying too much bright eyeshadow in a way that isn’t flattering for the eyes and that can actually make our eyes seem smaller and sunken – the opposite of what we truly want to achieve, right?
Many brands offer palettes with complementary colors. Apply the lighter colors on your lids and use the darker colors to outline your lash line and natural eye crease and brow bone. If you’re uncertain about how to apply your eyeshadow read our article PRO MAKEUP ARTIST TIPS: EYESHADOW 101 FOR OLDER WOMEN (VIDEO) which also contains a helpful video.
Best Eyeshadow Palettes for Older Skin
Best Powdered Eyeshadows for Older Skin
MAKEUP BY MARIO Ethereal Eyes Eyeshadow Palette
Introducing the NEW LIMITED EDITION eyeshadow palette, exclusively available at Sephora. It offers 12 signature shades in sueded matte, natural metallic, and glossy shimmer finishes.
This product is free from any unwanted ingredients and is both gluten-free and cruelty-free. A dream palette by Mario, featuring unique finishes for effortlessly captivating eye looks.
All About Shadow™ Quad from Clinique
One of my personal favorite eyeshadows is the All About Shadow™ Quad from Clinique. The Skinny Dip color combination is my fave, and I can’t count how many of these I have been through over the years.
It’s crease- and fade-resistant and is super easy to apply. I use an eyeshadow brush instead of the sponge applicators to apply the shades. They have a very slight shimmer that blends into the eyelids well without causing an excessive shiny look.
Naturally Pretty Essentials Matte Eyeshadow Palette by IT Cosmetics
Naturally Pretty Essentials Matte Luxe Transforming Eyeshadow Palette by It Cosmetics is another favorite among makeup artists when working with older women. Naturally Pretty Essentials features six anti-aging shadows that, with a tap of the bonus Transforming Hello Light shade, transform from matte to radiant satin.
The eyeshadow is infused with hydrolyzed collagen, real silk, and peptides to keep eyes from drying out and color from creasing.
Cover Shot Eye Shadow Palette by Smashbox
Cover Shot Eye Shadow Palette Minimalist by Smashbox is a perfect matte eyeshadow kit with rich natural colors that look great on mature skin.
Eye Shade Trio from Look Fabulous Forever
No Shimmer Eye Shade Trio from Look Fabulous Forever is a cold-color palette specifically created with older women in mind.
Best Cream Eyeshadow for Older Women
RMS Beauty Eye Polish
Kerrin’s go-to cream eyeshadow for older women is the RMS beauty Eye Polish. “It’s a cream eyeshadow with a slight shimmer,” she says.
“The Eye Polish is full of healing and protective ingredients like coconut oil, jojoba oil, and cocoa seed butter that are perfect to care for your skin at the same time as making it look great!”
PRO LONGWEAR PAINT POT
PRO LONGWEAR PAINT POT by MAC comes in several natural colors and can be worn solo or combined with complementary shades. As the name suggests, it is designed to stay put all day without creasing.
Best Budget Eyeshadow for Older Women
THE MATTE BAR EYESHADOW PALETTE from Maybelline
Makeup doesn’t have to be expensive to be good quality. Many drugstore brands at very affordable prices are used by professional makeup artists.
THE MATTE BAR EYESHADOW PALETTE from Maybelline is one of my favorites and has rave reviews from clients of all ages. The palette offers 10 matte shades at a price that won’t break the bank.
Revlon PhotoReady Eye Contour Kit
Revlon PhotoReady Eye Contour Kit is a classic that has been around for quite some time. The palette colors are a wet/dry formula – wet the eyeshadow for a more intense color. We like the step-by-step application instructions for a variety of different eye shapes included on the back of every palette.
A few Extra Eyeshadow Suggestions for Mature Women
L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Monos Eyeshadow
Intense color mono eyeshadows from L’Oréal Paris are soft and velvety and come in shimmery and matte finishes. Create your own eyeshadow duos or palettes.
Urban Decay Cosmetics Naked2 Basics Eyeshadow Palette
Urban Decay Cosmetics Naked2 Basics Eyeshadow Palette is a customer favorite that features 6 versatile eyeshadows to easily go from simple to dramatic eye looks on the go.
What Eyeshadow Color Should You Choose
Choosing the right eyeshadow color can enhance your eyes and complement your overall makeup look.
Here are some tips to help you select the perfect eyeshadow colors:
Consider Your Eye Color
- Blue Eyes: Warm shades like peach, copper, and earthy browns can make blue eyes pop. Shades of blue or purple can also create a nice contrast.
- Green Eyes: Shades of purple, plum, and burgundy can enhance green eyes. Earthy tones like taupe and warm browns also work well.
- Brown Eyes: Brown eyes are versatile and can pull off a wide range of colors. Jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, and deep purples can be striking. Neutrals, such as bronze and gold, can also complement brown eyes.
Take Your Skin Tone into Account
- Fair Skin: Soft pastels, light pinks, and cool-toned shades like lavender and silvery greys can complement fair skin.
- Medium Skin: Warm shades like terracotta, copper, and warm browns can look flattering on medium skin tones. Jewel tones and earthy colors also work well.
- Dark Skin: Rich, bold colors like deep blues, purples, and vibrant golds can make a statement on dark skin tones. Warm, earthy shades can also create a beautiful contrast.
Determine the Occasion
- Everyday Look: For a natural, everyday look, opt for neutral shades like beige, taupe, and soft browns.
- Evening or Special Occasion: Bold and shimmery colors like metallics, dark smoky shades, and glittery tones can add drama and glamour for special events.
Think About Your Eye Shape
Different eyeshadow techniques can enhance your eye shape. For example, light shades in the inner corners can make eyes appear larger, while dark shades in the crease can add depth and definition.
Take Your Personal Preference into Account
Ultimately, makeup is a form of self-expression. Choose eyeshadow colors that make you feel confident and beautiful.
Experiment and Practice
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and techniques. Practice different looks to find what works best for you and your unique features.
Feel free to mix and match colors to create your own unique style. Remember, quality eyeshadows with good pigmentation and blendability can make a significant difference in the final result, so invest in quality products for the best outcome.
If you’re like me, as I get older I want to know what I’m putting on my skin, in my body, and in the environment. I also find it important to know if the company does any animal testing. Brands are starting to look into providing products with fewer chemicals and toxic ingredients. You can find our top 5 favorite natural eyeshadows in our article 5 Best Natural Eyeshadows For Older Women.
Read WHICH LOOKS BETTER – MY MOST EXPENSIVE OR MY LEAST EXPENSIVE DRUGSTORE MAKEUP?
Let’s Have a Conversation:
Have you tried any of these eyeshadows? Which one is your favorite? Do you have any other eyeshadow suggestions for older skin?
Hello Tami
I would recommend a flesh coloured eyelid primer applied with a soft brush onto the eyelid and corners. On top of that a matt beige eyeshadow over the eyelid (the primer will help it to stay on and provide good coverage of any flaws) and a darker shade above the lid on the browbone. X p. S. I recommend Technic mate eyeshadow primer it’s brilliant and good for sensitive eyes and only about £1.99 online
Hello Tami
I would recommend a flesh coloured eyelid primer applied with a soft brush onto the eyelid and corners. On top of that a matt beige eyeshadow over the eyelid (the primer will help it to stay on and provide good coverage of any flaws) and a darker shade above the lid on the browbone. X
I’m 70 and fair-skinned. One of my eyeLIDS has a reddish “color “ near the inside corner. What can I use to conceal that discoloration? I’ve never used an eye primer…. Is that what I need?
Thank you so much.
I LOVE It Cosmetics Bye Bye Redness Neutralizing Color-Correcting Concealer Cream in Transforming Porcelain Beige. You only need the tiniest amount and I use either a my fingertip or makeup sponge to gently “tap” it onto the spot. I start with a teeny bit and if needed add a second layer. It’s amazing how well this makes any redness disappear and one jar will literally last a year even with daily use spot correcting the whole face. I also have started using cold pressed organic rosehip oil daily am and pm on my face. It does not make it greasy and it actually diminishes any red spots naturally as it combats inflammation. Again, just a half a drop on a finger patted on. I put makeup on top after 15 min. The brand Kate Middleton uses is called Trilogy Rose Hip oil. Great stuff.