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With growing older comes natural changes in your complexion such as the development of fine lines and wrinkles, sagging, and even hyperpigmentation. Because of this, the products that you use in your youth may not all flatter your complexion as you age, and it can be useful to audit your makeup drawer to eliminate products that may only work to draw attention to your age or even work to the detriment of your skin.
In order to preserve your youthful glow and maintain flawless skin at any age, there’s one product that dermatologists agree would be better left out of your makeup routine for a more hydrated and even appearance.
Within your makeup routine, eliminating products will all come down to how your skin is changing as you age. That being said, it’s face makeup products you’ll need to keep an eye on in determining whether or not they’re still serving your complexion.
“If you have acne you shouldn't use oily makeup, for dry skin avoid water based makeup as it might dry out your skin more,” explains Dr. Richard Bottiglione, Board Certified Dermatologist and founder of Dermatologist's Choice Skincare.
On the whole makeup does not really worsen aging itself, but rather using the wrong formula can further enhance the appearance of telltale signs. If your skin has gotten more dry over time, continuing to use a water based formula for your foundation may make these patches more apparent or sink into fine lines and wrinkles. “Removing [these formulas] at any age is a good idea. Swap it for a formulation that is best for your skin type,” notes Bottiglione.
However, drying products such as mattifying foundation or powder may sink into the lines of your face, so if you wish to hide these it’s best to invest in a solid skincare routine which can help to hydrate the surface which will allow makeup to sit better and smooth your complexion.
One of the most important steps in your makeup routine as you grow older in place of these drying ingredients is a sunscreen or SPF product which will protect your skin from sun damage and prevent worsening hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and age spots.
“Make sure to wear sunscreen daily to reduce signs of aging. An effective moisturizer with non-neutralized glycolic can also make your makeup look better as you age because your skin is smoother and healthier,” adds Bottiglione.
At the end of the day your makeup will never make your skin worse, but it can draw more attention to signs of aging if you’re opting for a formula which no longer fits your skin type. As you grow older you may find your complexion becoming more dry or oily, so it’s important to adjust your makeup routine accordingly to compliment your skin as it is now and not as it once was. With a solid anti-aging skincare routine and makeup to match, you’ll look inarguably flawless at any age.
