Lipstick can be a powerful tool for boosting confidence and polishing your look—but the wrong formula or shade can add years instead of subtracting them. This summer, makeup artists say women over 40 should steer clear of a few outdated lipstick habits that may be aging their appearance. From overly matte finishes to mismatched tones, here are the common mistakes to avoid—and what to try instead for a fresh, flattering pout.
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1. Using A Matte Finish Lipstick
In a captivating YouTube video, makeup artist and content creator Gabriela Soares explained which lipstick formulas might make women over 40 look older.
She provided detailed insights into matte finishes, gloss finishes, cream formulations, and more, while demonstrating their effects. She mentioned that if you're in search of a lipstick offering extended wear, a matte option is ideal. These lipsticks are intensely pigmented, giving the lips a completely flat look without any shine, although they do transfer a bit. However, the transfer is far less than that of a moisture-rich lipstick. So what are the drawbacks? Does it transfer?
"The most obvious downfall is that this texture can be uncomfortable for you because it's very drying," she said. Soares added: "It just doesn't have that moist, buttery feeling that most people crave on their lips." Another big downfall is that if "you have smaller lips, it can make slips look much smaller."
Soares also explained: "A moist appearance highlights that area and draw things forward, and a matte appearance creates like a contour effect and recedes things back, therefore making already small. I always talk about infusing radiance into every step of your routine matte lipsticks because they are drying. They do have a tendency of making lips and the skin around the lips appear older."
2. Lining Your Lips In A Too-Dark Color
Dark lip liners have taken over our TikTok feeds thanks to trendsetters like Hailey Bieber, who helped make it go viral. But not all trends are flattering on every individual.
Lining your lips with a color that’s too dark can inadvertently draw attention to fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth. The stark contrast between the dark liner and your natural lip color or lipstick can make uneven edges and creases more prominent, creating a harsh, aging effect. Also, dark liners can make lips appear thinner, which adds to the older appearance.
“Lining your lips in a color that’s darker than your lipstick can age you and look very harsh,” said Global Makeup Artist Natasha Moor, founder and chief empowerment officer of Natasha Moor Cosmetics. “Better: Match your lip liner to either your lipstick or your natural lip color. Or for a very modern look, try using a light brown lip pencil shade. You can also use a light brown brow pencil. Just make sure to blend it well.”
