When you think of a “sculpted” face, chances are you picture cheekbones that look more prominent, a jawline that appears strong, with visible angles, and eyes and lips that pop. A sculpted face doesn’t have an expiration date, but you may find it more difficult to give your face a lifted appearance as the years pass. It doesn’t have to be that way, though. With a few good makeup tips and products, it’s easier than ever to give your face intense definition. Beauty Expert Caleb Backe at Maple Holistics suggests these three life-changing makeup hacks for a sculpted face over 40.
Contouring Magic
Backe is a big fan of embracing the transformative power of contouring to create natural-looking definition and lift. “Opt for a cream or powder contour product in a shade slightly darker than your skin tone,” Backe says. “Apply it strategically to the hollows of the cheeks, along the jawline, and at the temples to create the illusion of sculpted features. Blend with a fluffy brush or sponge for a seamless, blended finish.”
The Power of Highlighting
Contouring and highlighting are like peanut butter and jelly — they go well together and complement one another. “Highlighting is a game-changer for mature skin, providing a youthful, radiant glow,” Backe says. “Choose a cream or liquid highlighter with a subtle shimmer. Gently dab it on the high points of the face, such as the cheekbones, brow bone, and down the center of the nose. This technique will add dimension and bring a luminous lift to your complexion.”
Fuller Lips, Timeless Beauty
As we age, our lips may lose some fullness, Backe reminds us. Restoring that volume and creating a more youthful pout can instantly make you look more refreshed. “Begin by gently exfoliating the lips to remove any dryness or flakiness,” Backe says. “Next, use a lip liner in a shade similar to your natural lip color to redefine and subtly overline the lips. Fill in with a creamy lipstick or gloss. Finish by applying a touch of highlighter to the cupid's bow for an extra plumping effect.”
Don’t Forget To Prep Your Skin
How you prep your skin prior to makeup application will make a big difference in its outcome. Backe suggests always using a moisturizer after cleansing and toning your skin. “Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, and natural oils (such as argan oil or jojoba oil) known for their hydrating and nourishing properties,” Backe says.
Focus On Formulas That Work For Your Skin
The same product that you use on younger skin may not work as effectively on mature skin.
“Younger skin typically benefits from lighter, oil-free formulations that focus on oil control and blemish prevention,” Backe says. “However, as skin ages, it undergoes changes such as reduced collagen and elastin production, decreased moisture retention, and increased signs of aging. Therefore, older skin requires products with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, richer moisturizers, and anti-aging ingredients such as retinol or peptides.”
Additionally, Backe says, mature skin often benefits from more emollient textures and targeted products that address concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness. “It's important to adapt skincare routines and product choices to cater to the specific needs of aging skin, promoting hydration, nourishment, and the maintenance of a healthy, youthful complexion,” he says.
Starting with good skincare and an abundance of moisture and then focusing on contour, highlighter, and lined lips is the fast way to get a sculpted face at any age — but especially over 40.
