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Whether you prefer a simple skin tint or full face glam, make-up is a great way to boost confidence and accentuate your features.
Well-placed products can also have an anti-ageing effect, while the wrong ones can do the opposite. An expert shared the make-up mistakes to avoid to look your best.
Make-up expert and founder of Laura Kay London, Laura Kay, told GB News: "To look your best, you should follow a set of make-up application rules for your age.
"Clever make-up tricks can enhance your best features, but it is important to note that different rules apply for different ages. If you fail to follow these rules, then you could risk looking older than you are.
Using a heavy foundation could be causing you to look older | GETTY"By learning and applying age-specific makeup tips whatever your age, you can -enhance your natural features and avoid adding years to your face.
"Make-up is a powerful tool that, when used correctly, can make you look more radiant at any age, you just need to follow a set of tips."
The expert warned against "neglecting to update your routine". The techniques and products you use need to be constantly reviewed, as what worked in your 20s might not be as flattering in your 50s.
Kay said: "Make-up trends and your skin’s needs evolve with time. Stay open to exploring new products and techniques to complement your natural beauty."
HOW TO LOOK YOUNGER
While application and product trends change as the decades pass, there are some universal beauty mistakes everyone should make an effort to avoid.
The first ageing make-up mistake comes down to your foundation. There are many ways this can go wrong, from unflattering shades to thick formulas that highlight imperfections.
Kay said: "Opt for CC creams or lightweight formulas over heavy foundation to achieve a fresh and youthful finish. Heavier products can settle into fine lines and exaggerate imperfections."
- Buy IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream with SF 50 for £32 from Boots
- Buy Clinique CC Cream with SPF 30 for £35 from Boots
- Buy NYX Blur Tint Foundation for £9.99 from Boots
Shades and textures are equally important in your lip products. Dark and bold colours can look pretty on the retailer's shelves, but the reality can be very different once applied.
Matte lipsticks and dark shades can make lips appear smaller
| GETTYKay said: "Lip colour plays a crucial role in your overall appearance. Avoid overly dark or matte finishes, which can make lips appear thinner and emphasise fine lines. Glossy or satin finishes are more forgiving."
- Buy the Clinique Satin Lipstick for £26.50 from Lookfantastic
- Buy the Kiko Milano Glossy Lip Set for £24.99 from Lookfantastic
- Buy the Nars Afterglow Shine Lipstick on sale for £23.60 from Lookfantastic
If you are going for a bold colour and texture, keep the rest of the make-up simple for a well-balanced, more flattering look. One way to easily enhance your day-to-day look is with semi-permanent or permanent make-up - "this can be beneficial at any age".
The beauty expert added: "Procedures like microblading or lip blushing can subtly enhance your features, reducing the effort of daily makeup application as you age."
For more age-specific tips, the make-up artist told over-50s the "essential" rules that will help you to feel and look your best".
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