Everything You Need To Know About Applying Mascara To Older Eyes

Since aging comes with natural bodily changes, older women are confronted with the annoying truth that some long-trusted beauty practices just don't work anymore. While dry skin and changing scalps can prompt those over 40 to adjust their shower routines, the face's normal signs of aging can also cause women to rethink even their most beloved makeup habits. For example, shifts in hormones can directly impact hair growth and strength, which means that eyelashes can thin and become more brittle as years progress. Older makeup enthusiasts may find their go-to mascaras are too heavy or even irritating, as a result.

So, Women spoke exclusively to celebrity makeup artist, Caroline Hernandez, to get you all the information you need to know about applying mascara to older eyes. While choosing the right product is essential, there are also expert-approved application tips for achieving a thick, lengthened lash. As demonstrated by the celebrities who are confronting aging with confidence, there are still plenty of ways for mature women to look and feel their best, even if makeup routines need to be tweaked along the way.

When it comes to applying mascara to older eyes, it's essential that you choose the right product. As mentioned, thinning eyelashes are common among older women, and Caroline Hernandez recommends tubing mascara as a suitable option for such cases. Distinct from oil-based formulas, tubing mascaras have technically existed since the '90s, but have grown in popularity throughout the 2020s for their promised one-coat lengthening power. 

"Tubing mascaras are ideal for delicate lashes because they use polymers that wrap around each hair like a sleeve," the expert exclusively tells Women. "These formulas are virtually smudge-proof, yet easy to remove with just warm water." Not only does this easy removal process benefit the lashes, but it's a major plus for sensitive eye skin, which also becomes even more delicate with age. For cosmetic lovers looking for specific recommendations, Hernandez points to Urban Decay's Tube Job as her tubing mascara of choice.

Additionally, there are some key ingredients to keep in mind when looking for mascaras suitable for older women. Skincare-makeup hybrid products are majorly popular, and there are nourishing mascara options that can be beneficial to aging eyelashes. Hernandez names strengthening elements like Vitamin E, peptides, panthenol, and hyaluronic acid as ingredients to note, recommending Longest Lash Mascara from Faux Cils as a nourishing option.

Black is a go-to color for many mascara users, but that doesn't mean it's the most optimal, especially for mature women. "If your hair or skin tone has lightened over time, 'blackest black' may now look too harsh if your skin tone is light," Caroline Hernandez explains. Additionally, while black can be a great way to contrast most eye colors, it can also result in a heavy or darkened appearance around the eye. 

Instead of the default shade, Hernandez recommends that older women experiment with colored mascara, as different hues can be an easy way to bring new life to any makeup routine. "A dark brown can provide the same emphasis with a more flattering, softer finish," she says. "Alternatively, try a navy blue or charcoal grey for definition without the severity of black."

While there are different mascara shades recommended for each eye color, picking up a colorful product can simply be an act of self-expression, too. "Aging doesn't mean losing your style or personality, it sometimes just means experimenting with different options," our expert continues, pointing to Liquid Lash's Extensions Tubing Mascara as a solid choice with many color options. Overall, whichever product you end up choosing, don't be afraid to have some fun with it.

Next, it's important to note that makeup prep can impact the longevity of your mascara. While some mascara formulas are more prone to smudging than others, a common skincare product used by older women may be the reason behind unwanted smears. "The culprit is often rich, moisturizing eye creams," Caroline Hernandez exclusively shares with Women. "To prevent this, apply cream only to the orbital bone rather than close to the lash line; your skin will still absorb the hydration it needs."

Aside from potential product interference, mature makeup lovers should always have an eyelash curler on hand, as it can really make a difference in your final makeup look. The simple tool serves to manually lift lashes, with users being advised to start at the root of the lashes and crimp upward for maximum lift. Hernandez cites Shiseido's Eyelash Curler as a 'makeup artist favourite,' cementing it as a great pick for anyone ready to splurge.  

Finally, when it comes to actually applying mascara, there are some expert-approved techniques that experienced beauty addicts should keep in mind. Celebrity makeup artist Caroline Hernandez recommends kicking things off with a strong foundation. "Take time to wiggle the mascara wand deep into the base of the lash line," she tells Women. "This will add a lot more depth to the lash line, almost like applying a thin eyeliner to the top lashes."

Additionally, heavy application on the bottom lashes can emphasize dark circles or hollowness around the eyes, creating unwanted shadows and drawing attention downwards. Because of this, mature women may want to go easy on their bottom lashes. "Concentrate mascara on the outer corners of upper lashes, sweeping them upward and outward to open the eye," our expert suggests instead.

Lastly, for those opting out of tubing mascara, Hernandez recommends picking up a metal eyelash comb to help define individual lashes. "After applying the first coat, before it dries, run the lash comb through them," she instructs, suggesting Tweezerman's Folding iLashcomb. "This separates every lash, which provides a more youthful and healthy appearance." With all this in mind, mature mascara lovers will be looking their best in no time at all.