Over 40? Prepping Your Skin for the Perfect Makeup Look

As we age, our skin changes, and so should our approach to makeup. While makeup is a wonderful tool for enhancing our features, there’s one secret that beauty experts, makeup artists, and celebrities all agree on: great makeup starts with great skincare. Especially after 40, when the skin's texture and tone may change, nourishing and prepping your skin before applying makeup is crucial. As the old adage goes, "Your skin is your canvas," and the better it's prepared, the more flawless your makeup will look.

Makeup Artists Weigh In: The Power of Prepping Skin

Celebrity makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury has long emphasized the importance of skincare as the foundation for any great makeup look. “Skincare is the most important step in achieving a flawless makeup look,” she says. “It doesn’t matter how great your foundation is if your skin is not well-prepped and hydrated.” This sentiment is echoed by top makeup artists like Lisa Eldridge, who stresses the importance of glowing, hydrated skin in achieving a natural, youthful look. "The key to glowing skin, especially over 40, is hydration, hydration, hydration," she advises. "When skin is plump and dewy, makeup sits better, lasts longer, and looks fresher."

When it comes to prepping skin, serums, moisturizers, and hydrating masks are non-negotiable. 

Serums: The Secret to Firm, Glowing Skin

Serums are packed with potent active ingredients that target specific skin concerns, and when used correctly, they can make a world of difference. 

Dr. Dennis Gross, a well respected dermatologist, advocates for the use of serums that are rich in antioxidants [like Rosehip Oil] and Vitamin C. "As we age, our skin loses elasticity and firmness," he says. "A good serum can help stimulate collagen production, which results in firmer skin and a smoother surface for makeup." 

Celebrity makeup artist Pat McGrath also suggests using a vitamin C serum as part of your routine. “A good serum not only hydrates but brightens the skin, giving it a natural, radiant glow. This is the foundation you want for any makeup look, but especially when you want that fresh, youthful vibe.”

Serums such as abeecos Pure Perfection Power Serum - with beautiful botanicals such as Rosehip Oil, Avocado Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Argan Oil, Olive Oil, plus Vitamin C & E - are well-loved in the beauty industry for delivering these powerful results, boosting skin's firmness and giving it a radiant glow that makeup can amplify.

Moisturisers: Plump, Hydrated Skin is Key

Once you've treated your skin with a good serum, the next essential step is moisturizing. Well-hydrated skin not only looks better, but it also holds makeup in place longer.

Celebrity esthetician Joanna Vargas says, “Moisturizing is a step you cannot skip, especially after 40. As our skin becomes drier with age, moisturizing keeps it plump and soft. When your skin is properly hydrated, makeup won’t settle into fine lines or wrinkles."

If you're looking for a moisturizer that provides long-lasting hydration, try abeeco's Bee Venom Pure Perfection Cream or Collagen + Bee Venom Active Day Lift. These are customer favorites for their ability to deeply hydrate without leaving a greasy residue. 

For those who need a little extra help with firming, opt for a moisturizer with Bee Venom. Bee Venom is especially beneficial for skin over 40 as it helps firm and plump the skin, giving it a smoother, more youthful appearance.

Hydrating & Firming Masks: An Extra Boost

Masks are another great addition to your skincare routine, providing an intense burst of hydration and firming action. Many makeup artists swear by hydrating masks before a big event or photoshoot to ensure that skin looks plump and glowing.

"Hydrating masks are a game-changer, especially for mature skin," says makeup artist Scott Barnes, who has worked with Jennifer Lopez for years. "When skin is well-hydrated, makeup doesn't cake or settle in fine lines. It gives you that fresh, dewy glow that is so flattering."

The Bee Venom Mask- reportedly used by Kate Middleton before her wedding to Prince William in 2011 - is ideal for providing that much-needed moisture and plumping effect, helping to smooth skin's texture and prepare it for a flawless makeup application. 

Prepping Your Skin for the Perfect Makeup Look

After 40, the goal is to enhance your natural beauty while embracing the changes that come with age. With a solid skincare routine that includes serums, moisturizers, and masks, your makeup will not only look better, but it will also last longer and highlight the best of your skin. As makeup artist Bobbi Brown puts it, “Healthy, glowing skin is always in. That glow is what makes your makeup look its best.”

So, the next time you're getting ready to apply your makeup, take a moment to focus on your skincare. The investment in nourishing your skin will always pay off, making your makeup look more radiant, fresh, and youthful.

When your skin feels and looks its best, makeup becomes a tool for expression rather than correction. Skincare is, without a doubt, the best makeup prep.