The Biggest Eyeshadow Mistakes Women Over 40 With Mature Eyelids Make That Look ‘Heavy And Drawn Down’
March 29, 2025 by Lisa Cupido
There are times when you think you’re doing everything right in your makeup look. After all, it’s the same eye makeup that you perfected all of those years ago, and you’re not about to change course now!
But here’s the reality: our features change over time, even if slightly. It is common for eyelids to become more hooded with age (and some of us were born with this beautiful feature). So lining our eyes and using certain eyeshadow shades or techniques can cause mature eyes to look “heavy and drawn down,” according to one makeup artist, who posted a helpful video about this on TikTok:
If you are over 40 and have mature eyelids, these are three of the “biggest” mistakes that Kate at katetalbertmua reminding us not to make.
1. Using Light Eyeshadow All Over the Eye
A very light, bright eyeshadow applied all over the eyelid draws attention to the lid. This isn’t always the best thing if you have fine lines on your lid or not a lot of lid space. Instead, Kate recommends using a medium brown shade and applying it with a fluffy brush to the center of the lid, working its way outward and upward. “Wherever you put down that brush first is where you’re going to get the biggest payoff in terms of color.”
2. Adding a Dark Color to the Outer Lid Corner
This tips was in practically every beauty video not long ago: applying a dark eyeshadow to the outer corner is meant to emphasize eyes and make them stand out. But on mature eyes it can droop down the area of the eye that is typically the heaviest for mature women. Instead, use a small and precise brush and place a darker color right along the upper lash line, as close to the lashes as possible.
3. Not Adding Luminosity to the Lid
You’re missing out on a step that can really brighten your eyes if you aren’t adding luminosity to your lid. We’re not talking about heavy glitter — just a small amount of shimmer on a neutral shade. Place it in the center of the upper lid — it can really make your eyes pop and make them look more alert and refreshed.