by staff writer
I’m one of those people that wears lipstick almost all the time. Even when I have no other make-up on my face. Lipstick can be a pain to apply and carry around, but, for me, stepping out in a bright shade of lipstick is well worth the trouble. Trust me, it’s not about looking good for other people. For me, it’s the feel-good factor. I wear lipstick because it makes me feel happy. Adding color to my lips brightens up both my face and my mood. And it makes me feel more comfortable and self-assured in social interactions. I realize the love of wearing lipstick is very subjective, but if you are also a lipstick wearer it’s good to know how to select the best lipsticks for older women.
How Do Our Lips Change as We Age?
As we journey through life, our lips go through some interesting changes. The most noticeable change is the loss of volume. With age, the production of collagen and elastin, which are responsible for maintaining skin elasticity and plumpness, decreases. Years of cumulative sun damage further contribute to the breakdown of collagen and elastin. Our lips may become thinner and less full as a result. Also, some of us see fine lines and wrinkles on and around our lips, often referred to as “lip lines”. This is because our skin becomes less able to retain moisture, as we age which also makes our lips dryer and more prone to chapping. Finally, the natural pigmentation of our lips can fade with age, making them appear less rosy.
Lip Care Tips for Older Women
Taking care of your lips is essential at any age, but especially as we age. Giving them some extra attention can help maintain their health and beauty. Here are some lip care tips specifically for older women:
Hydration is Key
Keep your lips well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Additionally, use a hydrating lip balm or moisturizer regularly to lock in moisture and prevent dryness and chapping. You might also consider using a humidifier at home to keep the air moisturized, especially during dry weather or winter months.
Avoid licking, biting or picking at your lips.
Constantly biting or picking at your lips can strip away the natural oils and moisture that protect the skin. As a result, your lips may become dry, chapped, and more susceptible to cracking. Also, we recommend you avoid licking your lips, as saliva can dry your lips out further.
Sun Protection
Apply a lip balm with SPF before heading outdoors, as sun exposure can accelerate the aging process and cause damage to the delicate skin on your lips.
Lip Exercises
Simple lip exercises may help maintain muscle tone and firmness around your mouth. For example, try gently pursing your lips and holding the position for a few seconds, then releasing. Repeat a few times daily.
Avoid Smoking
If you smoke, quitting can greatly benefit your lips’ health and appearance. Smoking can cause premature aging and contribute to the development of lip lines.
Choose Moisturizing Lipsticks
Use moisturizing lipsticks or lip products with nourishing ingredients to prevent dryness and enhance the overall look of your lips. Matte lipsticks can be drying, so use them sparingly or over a hydrating base.
How to Select the Best Lipstick
When it comes to choosing a lipstick, most of us have a list of demands a mile long. We all want long lasting color, of course, and a wide variety of shades from which to choose to match our skin tone. The occasion influences the lipstick color too. For special evenings out, you might select bold and dramatic colors. For daily wear, you might prefer more natural or neutral shades. What about the finish? Lipsticks come in matte, satin, glossy, creamy and more. Which one suits your personal style and the occasion? Consider the texture too. Lipstick formulas can vary, so, if possible, we recommend you try the lipstick on your lips or swatch it on your wrist to see how it feels. Trying the lipstick is also important to see the true color. Often, they look different in the tube than on your skin. Don’t forget to check out the reviews before you buy to learn about the performance of the lipstick from previous buyers.
Keep in mind that makeup is all about personal preference, so choose a lipstick that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Have fun experimenting with different colors and finishes until you find your perfect match!
Ingredients
Lipsticks formulated for mature lips often contain ingredients that provide hydration, nourishment, and a smooth appearance while minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Here are some common ingredients you might find in lipstick products designed for mature lips.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a hydrating ingredient that helps retain moisture, keeping lips plump and smooth.
Shea Butter
Shea butter is rich in vitamins and fatty acids, providing deep hydration and nourishment to dry lips.
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is similar to the skin’s natural oils and helps moisturize without feeling greasy. It also aids in softening lip texture.
Argan Oil
Argan oil is packed with antioxidants and essential fatty acids, helping to improve lip texture and overall appearance.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is known for its antioxidant properties, helping to combat free radicals and supporting skin health.
Peptides
Peptides are amino acid chains that can stimulate collagen production, promoting smoother and firmer lips.
Collagen
Some lip products contain collagen to help improve lip fullness and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Glycerin
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts and retains moisture, keeping lips hydrated.
Ceramides
Ceramides support the skin’s natural barrier function, aiding in moisture retention and preventing dehydration.
Antioxidants
Antioxidant-rich ingredients like vitamins C and A can help protect lips from environmental damage.
Beeswax
Beeswax is often used for its protective and conditioning properties, helping to lock in moisture.
Dimethicone
Dimethicone is a silicone-based ingredient that can create a smooth, barrier-like layer on the lips, reducing the appearance of fine lines.
Natural Oils (Coconut, Olive, etc.)
Various natural oils provide hydration and nourishment, helping to maintain lip softness.
Sunscreen (SPF)
Sun protection is crucial for mature lips. Lipsticks with added SPF can shield lips from UV damage.
Anti-Aging Peptides
Some lipsticks include specific peptides that target lip lines and wrinkles.
When looking for lipstick products for 50plus lips, focus on those that prioritize moisture, nourishment, and gentle care. Pay attention to the ingredients list to ensure it aligns with your preferences and any skin sensitivities you may have. It’s also a good idea to try out samples or testers to see how the lipstick feels and looks on your lips before making a purchase.
Finish and texture
For older women, a creamy or satin finish lipstick is often a great choice. These textures provide hydration and a smooth appearance that minimizes fine lines and a youthful plumpness to your lips. Embracing hydrating formulas, avoiding extremely matte finishes, and considering sheer or tinted balms can further enhance the comfort and appearance of mature lips, ensuring a flattering and confident look.
Color
What’s the best color lipstick for senior women? Good question. It depends on a variety of factors. When choosing a lipstick color as a mature woman, it’s important to consider your skin tone and undertones. Opt for shades that harmonize with your complexion—warm undertones pair well with coral, peach, and warm reds, while cool undertones complement mauve, berry, and cool-toned reds. Neutral shades that align with her natural lip color offer a timeless and elegant look. Avoid extremes like overly dark or light shades and choose medium tones that strike a balance. Subtle shimmer or gloss can add a youthful glow, but heavy glitter is best avoided. Ultimately, the chosen color should boost her confidence, align with your outfit and the occasion, and reflect your personal style.
Quality and price
More expensive does not necessarily mean better. In other words, the price of a lipstick does not always correlate directly with its quality. While some higher-end brands invest in advanced formulations, luxurious packaging, and innovative ingredients, there are also affordable options that offer excellent quality. The key is to find a lipstick that aligns with your preferences, needs, and budget.
Factors such as the brand’s reputation, ingredients, formulation, and performance play a significant role in determining the quality of a lipstick. Some expensive lipsticks might indeed provide exceptional results, but there are also affordable options that can deliver impressive color payoff, comfort, and longevity.
Before purchasing a lipstick, it’s a good idea to consider reviews, try out testers or samples, and assess factors like pigmentation, texture, wear time, and comfort. This will help you make an informed decision based on the product’s actual performance rather than solely relying on its price tag. Remember that makeup is personal, and what matters most is how the lipstick makes you feel and the results it provides.
Best Lipsticks for Over 50
Here are a few of our favorite budget friendly lipsticks for older women.
L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Satin Lipstick with Precious Oils
Finally, a lipstick especially designed for mature skin. This age perfect creamy satin lipstick is infused with precious oils and rich pigments for creamy color and a luxurious feel that does not dry, migrate or feather. Comes in a variety of great colors.
Neutrogena Moisture Smooth Color Lipstick
Neutrogena Moisturizing lipstick conditions your lips in just three days! Made with fruit extracts and shea butter, this color stick nourishes your lips while coloring them with a rich, bold pigment. The twist-up design of this soothing lip color makes it easy to use, allowing for perfect application every time with no sharpening needed. Plus, the balm-like formula glides on easily. Choose shades 90-180 for a bold, creamy finish.
Palladio Herbal Lipstick, Infused with Aloe Vera, Chamomile & Ginseng
Palladio’s Herbal Lipstick is a richly pigmented long lasting lipstick. This nourishing lipstick goes on soft with color that lasts & helps combat the look of fine lines associated with aging. Gives lips a smooth, moisturized feel. It’s creamy texture that glides smoothly over lips. Additionally, it has full-coverage properties for color that stays in place for hours without drying your lips, feathering, or bleeding. Palladio’s products are saturated with antioxidant vitamins like A, C, D and E, and powerful botanicals to help nourish your skin Also, this brand is100% paraben and cruelty-free. Lots of great colors to choose from!
Maybelline New York Color Sensational Lipstick
This Maybelline creamy hydrating lipstick is rich and creamy. Formulated with Shea Butter, it provides a sensuous feeling for smooth, supple lips, with no feathering or bleeding. The highly pigmented lip color with a creamy smooth glide during application leaves lips feeling hydrated, nurtured, and conditioned. Available in a wide range of nude, pink, red and plum shades that are rich and ultra-flattering, this lipstick will take you form day to night.
Lancôme L’Absolu Rouge Hydrating Cream Lipstick
This Lancôme hydrating cream lipstick provides long-lasting coverage. This one is more expensive than the others recommended in this section, but women love the quality. It goes on creamy and smooth and comes in a wide variety of great colors.
How to Apply Lipstick for Older Women
Applying lipstick for older women involves some considerations to enhance the overall look while accommodating the unique features of mature lips. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve a flattering and comfortable lipstick application:
Prepare Your Lips:
Start with a smooth canvas. Exfoliate your lips gently to remove any dry skin, then apply a moisturizing lip balm to hydrate and create a smooth texture.
Use a Lip Liner
Choose a lip liner that matches the natural color of your lips or the lipstick shade you’ll be using. Line your lips along the natural lip contour, starting from the center and working outward. Lip liner helps prevent feathering and provides a defined shape.
Apply Lipstick
Use a lip brush or apply the lipstick directly from the bullet, starting from the center of your lips and moving outward. Apply the lipstick within the lip liner to avoid any harsh lines. For mature lips, consider choosing a creamy or satin finish lipstick for added hydration and smoothness.
Blot and Reapply
After the first layer, blot your lips with a tissue to remove excess product. This helps set the color and prevents the lipstick from transferring excessively. Apply a second layer of lipstick for longer-lasting color.
Avoid Dark Outlines
To create a natural look, avoid using a lip liner that’s significantly darker than your lipstick. This can create a harsh contrast and emphasize lip lines.
Blending and Softening
Gently press your lips together to blend the color. Use a clean finger or a cotton swab to soften any edges and create a seamless finish.
Less is More
Opt for lighter and more neutral shades, or medium tones that complement your skin tone. These shades are generally more forgiving and flattering for mature lips.
Consider Lip Gloss
To add dimension and a youthful shine, apply a hydrating lip gloss to the center of your lips. Avoid heavy glitter and opt for a subtle, dewy effect.
Regular Touch-Ups
Keep your lipstick and lip liner with you for touch-ups, as lipstick can fade over time, especially after eating or drinking.
Confidence is Key
Embrace your unique features and express your personal style. Confidence in your appearance can make any lipstick shade look stunning.
Remember that makeup is an art, and practice makes perfect. Feel free to adjust these steps based on your preferences and the results you’re aiming for. The goal is to enhance your natural beauty and feel confident and comfortable in your chosen lipstick.
Confidently Wear Your Lipstick as a Mature Woman
So, what’s the best lipstick for older women? There are a number of factors to consider when choosing which lipstick to buy. When thinking about color and texture, factor in your skin undertone, lip texture, and comfort. The choice of shade should complement your natural lip color, outfit, and occasion, while also boosting your confidence. Don’t be afraid to experiment keeping in mind shades that enhance your features without overpowering them. Lighting, longevity, seasonal considerations, and personal expression play vital roles. The quality of your lipstick is important but remember that expensive isn’t necessarily better. Ultimately, the right lipstick empowers women to feel beautiful and reflects their unique style.
Lipstick FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions related to choosing the best lipstick for older women.
1. What factors should older women consider when choosing a lipstick color?
Older women should consider their skin undertone, natural lip color, personal style, and the occasion when choosing a lipstick color. Opt for shades that complement their complexion, enhance their features, and align with their preferences.
2. What lipstick texture is most suitable for mature lips?
Creamy or satin finishes are often ideal for mature lips. These textures provide hydration, minimize the appearance of fine lines, and offer a smooth and comfortable feel. Hydrating formulas with emollients like shea butter or natural oils can further enhance lip texture.
3, How do I choose a lipstick that doesn’t emphasize lip lines?
To avoid emphasizing lip lines, opt for creamy textures that provide moisture and a plumping effect. Matte lipsticks with a creamy base can also create a smooth appearance. Avoid extremely matte or drying formulas that might settle into lines.
4. Are there specific lipstick shades that work well for older women?
Neutral tones, soft pinks, medium mauves, and classic reds are often flattering on older women. Shades that enhance the lips without appearing too intense tend to create a youthful and elegant look.
5. Are there any lipstick finishes I should avoid as an older woman?
Extremely matte finishes with a dry texture can emphasize lip lines and create an aged appearance. Heavy glitter or metallic finishes can also draw attention to fine lines. Choose smoother textures like creamy, satin, or satin-matte.
6. Can I wear bold or vibrant lipstick colors as an older woman?
Absolutely! While neutral and softer shades are often preferred, wearing bold or vibrant colors can make a stylish statement. Balance is key—bold lips can be paired with more understated eye makeup.
Remember that makeup is a personal choice, and the most important factor is choosing colors and textures that make you feel confident and beautiful. Experimenting with different options can help you discover the perfect lipstick for your unique style and preferences.
