Opt for a Glowy Finish

“When it comes to summer makeup for mature skin, I always say less is more—but the glow is non-negotiable,” says Quinn. Hydration plays a significant role in how your makeup looks when you’ve got mature skin, and it’s essential to start with the proper prep. Quinn also notes Copaiba Oil as his secret weapon for glowing skin.

The most important part of your morning skincare prep is SPF. “When it comes to skin, keeping the texture light while layering in sun protection is key,” mentioned Byrne, “Starting with an SPF primer creates a polished finish that still looks like bare skin. If you’re prone to shine, add a layer of a little pore-blurring primer in the T-zone.”

In the evening, Byrne says the focus should be on maintaining hydration and plump texture before bed. “Night is when the real treatments come into play. On clean skin, begin with a targeted serum that focuses on brightening, rejuvenating, or plumping. Follow with an eye cream, then layer a rich oil-based treatment or dense cream to nourish your skin as you sleep deeply,” he suggests. “And don’t stop at your face, massage that oil or cream into your neck, across your décolleté, and over the backs of your hands.”

You don’t need several products for prep, just a few key players that will hydrate your skin and give it the glow and sheen you want for warm summer days and evenings.

Trade Heavy Foundation for a Skin Tint

Swap out full-coverage foundations with matte finishes for tinted moisturizers. Products that provide coverage while also looking soft enhance the natural beauty of your complexion. “Layer on a sheer skin tint, BB cream, or just dab on concealer where needed,” says Quinn. “This lets your skin’s natural luminosity shine through.”

When wanting a tad more coverage, Quinn suggests starting to blend your makeup at the center of your face, working your way out. “Focus your coverage at the center of your face, between the brows, under the eyes, around the nose, and on the chin. There’s no need to bring coverage to the hairline or jawline,” he explains. “A dry or slightly damp sponge is useful here. It helps press the product into the skin without building up texture or settling into fine lines.”

Byrne also noted to avoid heavy textures, “Avoid anything that sits too heavily on the skin. Greasy or thicker formulas can cause makeup to slide off or settle into fine lines and wrinkles, especially in heat and humidity.”

Swap Powder for Cream

Paying attention to the texture of the products you are using on mature skin is essential. According to Quinn, cream products are the clear winner in this category. “Cream is your best friend. Cream blushes and bronzers melt in beautifully, never settle into fine lines, and give you that sun-kissed, healthy finish,” he says.

Byrne is also a fan of cream formulas. “For shaping, I always love cream blushes and bronzers, especially for mature skin, because they melt in and give a sun-kissed glow,” he says. “When applied over the primer, they have a bit of extra staying power throughout the day.”

That being said, face powder still has a place in a summer makeup routine. “Powders can have their place, but I use them sparingly,” says Byrne. “I’ll often set just the areas that tend to crease, such as under the eyes or around the nose, with a fine, translucent powder. For shine control, I like to start with blotting papers and, if needed, finish with a mattifying balm or cream applied to any overly shiny spots.” Byrne also noted the importance of paying attention to how your skin feels, “Trust your instincts. If something feels heavy, it probably is. If you feel glowy and fresh, you are. The goal is to enhance and glow with products that last into the evening.”

Use Lip Products That Provide Hydration and Shine

When considering lip products, opt for lipstick and gloss formulas that provide both hydration and shine. “It’s best to avoid dry, matte lipstick or harsh liners,” says Quinn. “Swap out those formulas for something hydrating with a bit of glow. A sheer balm or stain in a flattering tone (think coral, rose, or berry) adds just the right polish,” adds Byrne. “Unless they’re truly comfortable or part of your signature look, dense and matte lipsticks can be more trouble than they’re worth in the heat. A lighter-weight tinted balm, lip oil, or hydrating lipstick is flattering and easier to manage on warm days.”

Maximize Your Eye Application for a Lifting Effect

When planning eye makeup looks for mature skin, use a lifting application technique. “You’ll want to stick to soft neutrals, keep the liner tight at the lash line, and add a pop of light in the inner corner,” says Quinn. “It opens everything up. Avoid using frosty eyeshadow or chunky shimmer finishes as they tend to sit in creases. A soft sheen or satin finish is far more flattering.”

Use eyeliners that blend easily and are soft enough to use on the waterline. “Gently blending a waterproof or smudge-resistant pencil along the lashline in any color, or a neutral such as taupe, espresso, or soft black, adds subtle depth that won’t melt away in the heat,” adds Byrne.

Keep Your Brow Routine Simple

Since brows frame the face and it’s essential to maintain their shape consistency, it’s best to adopt a ‘less is more’ approach when shopping for brow products. Quinn, a fan of brow gel, recommends anything that will look soft and not harsh. “For brows, I recommend a thin layer of tinted brow gel or a precise pencil with feathery definition to frame the face without looking harsh.”

Opt for Water Resistant Formulas

Summer heat can have you thinking that waterproof formulas are what you need. However, Byrne suggests water-resistant instead. “Using waterproof makeup sounds like a smart choice, but waterproof formulas usually require aggressive removal, which isn’t ideal for delicate, mature skin,” he explains. “Opt for long-wearing or water-resistant formulas when needed, but save waterproof for when you’re actually swimming.”

Experiment With Color

If your skin is mature, you don’t need to sacrifice color for more neutral, earth-toned options. Byrne is a big fan of playing with different hues. “When it’s hot and your skin has a slight tan, play with rich colors and blend them into a more transparent wash as needed,” he explains. “A pop of coral on the cheeks, a soft wash of bronze on the eyes, or even a fresh berry lip brings vibrancy to mature skin.”

Clean Your Makeup Brushes

Makeup build-up on brushes can make or break your application. It’s best to keep your brushes clean and free of any excess product. Washing your brushes at least once per week is ideal. The simple step ensures a smooth application each time, especially when working with cream-based products.

Set With Hydrating Products

Both experts agree that using a setting spray that adds a glow and hydration to mature skin goes a long way. Using the right setting spray can help lock in the wear of your products and minimize creasing and smudging. When your makeup look is complete, hold the setting spray at least 10-12 inches away from your face and spray liberally all over, covering your entire face and giving it enough time to dry. Summer makeup starts with skin that’s prepped, protected, and glowing in the end, especially for mature skin!