The Best Eyeshadow Colors To Wear If You're Over 40

While there's nothing wrong with wearing the same eyeshadow color for decades, updating your makeup choices as you age can help your features look more defined. Just as personal style evolves, eyeshadow shades and finishes that once felt flattering may not have the same effect years later.

For years, beauty publications have highlighted the importance of adjusting your skincare routine to cater to mature skin, noting that mature skin also benefits from a softer, more strategic makeup application. In a conversation between several celebrity makeup artists and Byrdie, the platform advises, "The key to eyeshadow application for those with mature skin is to blend, blend, blend — and use the right makeup brushes to do so. We love soft brushes that are gentle on the skin and work for all eye shapes." To get our own expert take, Women spoke exclusively with fashion and red-carpet hair and makeup artist, Luna Viola, to get the scoop on which shades work especially well for women over 40. 

According to Viola, many people get stuck wearing the same colors for years. "We often get stuck in the same eyeshadow shades, and that can take the fun out of makeup," she explains. "Adding new colors or even textures, like a soft shimmer or satin finish, can instantly refresh and modernize the look." Viola adds that updating your eyeshadow can also help the eyes appear more lifted and refreshed. When you take the time to update your tastes to meet your adult, over-40 self, the impact can be clear as day.

One of Luna Viola's top eyeshadow recommendations for women over 40 is a champagne shimmer eyeshadow. Unlike chunky glitter formulas, a soft champagne shade reflects light in a flattering way, brightening the eye area without appearing overpowering. "Champagne shimmer highlights the lid or inner corner, giving a refreshed, youthful effect," Viola says, exclusively. The subtle luminosity can help make the eyes appear more open while adding dimension to the overall makeup look.

Another shade Viola recommends is a soft, matte, earthy brown, which can create natural definition without feeling too intense. "Soft matte earthy brown adds gentle definition without harsh contrast," she explains. Because the color mimics natural shadows within the eye area, it can enhance shape and depth while maintaining a chic appearance. For affordable options to try out, Reddit users advise reaching for palettes like Natasha Denona's "I Need A Nude" or Makeup by Mario's "Master Mattes The Neutrals" for earthy brown shadows that don't skew too orange.

But above all, rather than focusing on age-specific restrictions, Viola encourages women to experiment with shades and textures that make them feel confident. "We often get stuck in the same eyeshadow shades and that can take the fun out of makeup" our expert shares, exclusively. Viola notes that 'adding new colors or even textures (like a soft shimmer or satin finish) can instantly refresh and modernize the look.'