Makeup Artists Always Recommend *This* Type of Eyeshadow for Mature Skin—Plus the Best to Shop (2024)

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Your skin naturally changes as you age, and that can influence what the right makeup is for you as time goes on. The best eyeshadows for mature skin meet you — and your skin — where you’re at, while delivering the right pigments and lasting wear you deserve.

Of course, you can wear any kind of eye makeup, whenever and wherever you want. But if you’re looking for eye shadows with ingredients that are tailored toward your specific needs, there are a few worth considering. Check out our top picks for the best eyeshadows for mature skin, and keep scrolling down for advice from a dermatologist and makeup artist on elements to look for (and avoid) when shopping.

Best Eyeshadow for Mature Skin at a Glance

Best Overall: Laura Mercier Waterproof Caviar Eye Color Stick Trio, $66
Best Easy-to-Blend Eyeshadow: , $12, was $20
Best Eyeshadow at Amazon: Charlotte Tilbury Bigger Brighter Exxager Eyes, $36
Most Affordable: Revlon Crème Eyeshadow Palette, $7
Best Long-Lasting Eyeshadow: Charlotte Tilbury Eyes To Mesmerize Cream Eyeshadow, $35
Best Matte Eyeshadow: Merit Solo Shadow Cream-to-Powder Soft Matte Eyeshadow, $24
Best Liquid Eyeshadow: Stila Shimmer Glow Liquid Eye Shadow, $24
Best Crease-Proof Eyeshadow: Kulfi Zari Eyes Long-Lasting Crease-Proof Cream Eyeshadow, $30
Best Splurge: Tom Ford Eye Color Quad Crème Eyeshadow Palette, $90

What type of eyeshadow is best for mature skin?

It’s important to kick things off with skin prep before you apply your makeup, says makeup artist Erica Taylor. “If your skin is not properly hydrated and exfoliated, you are already at a disadvantage,” she says.

When it comes to the type of eyeshadow, she suggests looking for creamy formulations. “Cream textures are more forgiving to mature skin and are way easier to apply,” she says. These can be dabbed or gently brushed on to avoid unintentionally irritating your skin during the application.

Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research at The Mount Sinai Hospital, agrees. “Cream makeup formulas tend to be more hydrating to give additional skincare benefits in addition to cosmetic coverage,” he says.

What to avoid in eyeshadow for mature skin

There are a few things to consider when choosing eyeshadow for mature skin. It’s important to avoid products with fragrances, since these can be irritatating, says Zeichner. If you’re going with a stick-based eyeshadow, you’ll want a creamy formula that glides on easily — otherwise, you risk irritating your eyes with pressure needed to apply it, he adds.

Also, it may be helpful to avoid overly matte products. “There is a misconception that mature skin should wear matte, but matte textures can come across as dry and dusty,” Taylor says. “I tell everyone to look for products that are luminous and silky but stay away from thick sparkles and glitter.” Why? Fine lines and wrinkles can cause the finish to look slightly messy and uneven.

What kind of eye makeup should a woman wear as she ages?

Any kind you want! Wear what makes you feel your best irrespective of your age. Still, if you want specific guidance, “eyeshadows that have implemented additional moisture like hyaluronic acid, squalene, and ceramides are a few to look for,” Taylor says.

Just keep this pro tip in mind from Dr. Zeichner: Don’t overly stretch or pull your skin when you put on or take off your eye makeup. “Even low grade inflammation from removing eye makeup can contribute to premature aging, pigmentation, and wrinkling over time,” he says.