The Best Formula To Use When Applying Shadow To Mature Eyes

As your skin changes with age, it's natural for your makeup routine to evolve, too. The delicate skin around the eyes gradually loses collagen and elasticity over time, which can cause certain eyeshadow formulas to settle into fine lines or emphasize texture, instead of enhancing the eyes themselves. It's hard to protect your eyes from the effects of aging, and while application technique certainly matters, the formula you choose can have just as much impact on how smooth, flattering, and long-lasting your eye makeup is.

Women spoke exclusively with Amanda Gabbard, celebrity makeup artist and esthetician, to find the best eyeshadow formula for mature eyes, and to learn why cream shadows have become one of her go-to recommendations. Gabbard says that while no formula is completely off-limits, some textures naturally perform better on aging skin than others, and other makeup professionals echo her advice.

Speaking to Vogue, celebrity makeup artist Lisa Aharon said she prefers cream textures because 'if used up to the crease, a cream shadow can also be very flattering,' making them especially forgiving on mature complexions. To stave off creases overall, makeup artist Tamara Delbridge told Allure that when applying shadow to mature eyes, start by 'prepping with an emollient eye serum infused with lipid-restoring ingredients, such as antioxidants and hyaluronic acid ... to hydrate the delicate skin around the eyes and on the lids.' These are just a few eye makeup tips for older women that will give a wide-awake appearance.

According to Amanda Gabbard, cream eyeshadows flatter mature eyes because they work with the skin, not against it. "I'm a huge fan of cream formulas across the board," she tells Women, exclusively, continuing, "These formulas literally melt into the skin for a softer, seamless look." She also notes that many newer cream formulas contain skincare ingredients that help hydrate the eyelids while creating a natural-looking finish.

However, that doesn't mean powders are off the table. Gabbard explains that if you prefer powders, invest in finely milled formulas with a silky texture, which are less likely to cling to dry patches or fine lines. Makeup artist and brand founder Bobbi Brown shares the same principle, telling Katie Couric Media that mature-skinned women should 'choose subtle, neutral colors that brighten and open up your eyes' and to 'stay away from super heavy-pigmented shimmers or frosts.' Likewise, makeup artist Wayne Goss recommended 'lightweight, satin-finish formulas over heavily glittered shadows,' explaining in several YouTube tutorials that shimmery particles actually accentuate texture on mature lids.

For those trying out cream shadow for the first time, Gabbard recommends keeping the application simple. "Less is more for starters," she says. "Always prep the area with eye cream under the eye and on top of the lid." From there, apply a small amount of product before blending with your fingertip or a shadow brush. Building thin layers rather than applying one thick coat creates a softer finish that wears more comfortably throughout the day.