Makeup artist shares top 3 tips to disguise signs of aging & look more youthful – and the worst products to avoid
AN instantly more youthful appearance can be achieved with three little-known tips revealed by a makeup artist.
Laura Kay said that when makeup is applied “cleverly,” it’s possible to enhance your best features while also disguising signs of aging.
Kay is a former celeb artist turned permanent makeup expert with over 20 years of experience in the cosmetic industry.
Speaking to The U.S. Sun, she shared tricks for defying the signs of aging.
MIRACULOUS MAKEUP
Kay said it’s important to use the right makeup techniques as you run the risk of looking older when it’s done incorrectly.
She said the first tip to consider is the importance of preparing the skin with a hydrating primer.
“A hydrating primer smooths out fine lines and moisturizes the skin, creating a perfect base for your makeup,” she said.
“This type of primer helps to fill in small creases and provides a more even surface for foundation, making your skin look plumper and more youthful.”
Secondly, Kay recommended having a “lightweight, luminous” foundation in your makeup collection.
She said a dewy-looking foundation keeps makeup from settling into wrinkles and fine lines.
“A radiant finish gives the skin a healthy glow, helping to create the appearance of younger, fresher skin,” she added.
Lastly, powder blushes should be swapped for those with a cream formula.
“Cream blushes blend seamlessly into the skin and provide a natural, dewy finish that mimics the skin’s youthful glow,” she said.
“Powder blush can sometimes sit on top of the skin and accentuate texture, but a cream blush melts into the skin for a more youthful, vibrant look.”
FLAWED FOUNDATIONS
Kay warned against using heavy matte foundations because they draw attention to the signs of aging.
“Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation is a product that although popular for its long wear, has a heavy and matte formula that only emphasizes any fine lines and wrinkles you have going on,” she said.
“There are other brands that are known for a matte finish so just be aware they will look dry once applied and show up the unique texture of your skin if anti-aging is important for you.”
Any skincare or beauty products that contain alcohol are not advisable for mature or sensitive skin.
Laura Kay
She suggested instead using IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream.
It offers full coverage with a “dewy finish” but also contains anti-aging ingredients including peptides and hyaluronic acid.
Alternatively, she recommended the NARS Sheer Glow Foundation.
PROBLEMATIC PRODUCTS
Harsh exfoliants should be avoided, she stressed, as they can irritate aging skin.
“Be mindful when purchasing exfoliators, some can contain large particles that cause very tiny skin tears and cause irritation,” she said.
“For instance, St. Ives Apricot Scrub is not ideal if you have delicate skin.”
She also advised against using any beauty products with a high alcohol content because they can cause dryness.
“Although very popular, Clinique Clarifying Lotion 3 is high on the alcohol side,” she said.
Buy it now
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IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream, $47, Sephora
NARS Sheer Glow Foundation, $47, NARS
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, $11.99, Walmart
Murad Retinol, $57.96, Amazon
“By default, any skincare or beauty products that contain alcohol are not advisable for mature or sensitive skin, as they can dry it out and be too harsh.”
Kay recommended restoring hydration to the skin with hyaluronic acid and said retinol also works wonders for a more youthful look.
“Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel is a good recommendation to try as it has a lightweight gel formulation with hyaluronic acid, providing long-lasting hydration without feeling heavy,” she said.
“A serum-based product, such as Murad Retinol, contains fast-acting retinoid to help boost the appearance of line lines.”