As the summer sun sets on this August day, I find myself embracing the beauty of aging with grace and wisdom. At 63, I’ve discovered that makeup isn’t just about covering imperfections—it’s about strategic enhancement that can literally lift your face without expensive surgeries. These three game-changing makeup moves have transformed my appearance and boosted my confidence as I navigate my 60s.
The power of strategic bronzer contouring
The first revelation came when I discovered the lifting effect of properly placed bronzer. “Most women over 60 make the mistake of applying bronzer flat across the face, which actually drags features down,” explains celebrity makeup artist Tina Reynolds.
Instead of the traditional sweep, I now use a medium-toned bronzer (neither too light nor dark) with a small angled brush to create subtle shadows that sculpt and lift my face naturally. The key is applying it in an upward motion from the hollows of my cheeks toward my temples.
“Using a medium-tone bronzer strategically on the eyes and cheekbones sculpts and lifts the face without looking overdone. The placement mimics natural shadows, creating the illusion of higher cheekbones,” shares master makeup artist James Cohen.
I’ve found that a strategic bronzer contouring technique not only defines my features but creates the appearance of a natural face lift.
Neck-focused highlighting and shading techniques
The second game-changer was learning how to address my “turkey neck” concerns with makeup rather than surgery. Using a foundation or concealer one shade cooler than my skin tone beneath my chin creates the visual illusion of a more defined jawline.
“Applying cool tone foundation just underneath the jawline breaks up the turkey neck and creates the illusion of a firmer neck. It’s about creating shadows where you want less prominence,” explains beauty educator Sarah James.
I complement this with highlighting and shading techniques that bring light to my best features while receding areas that show signs of aging.
The secret world of facelift tape
My third discovery was facelift tape—small, transparent adhesives that physically lift sagging skin. These discreet tapes have become my secret weapon for special occasions and important meetings.
Art Harding, beauty innovator, confirms: “The instant face lift tape is a fun and effective way to lift jowls and improve contours without any surgery or downtime.”
I apply these tapes before foundation, positioning them strategically at my temples and near my jawline to gently pull and secure loose skin. The effect is subtle yet transformative.
Combining techniques with proper skincare
These makeup moves work best when paired with proper skincare. I’ve incorporated the massage technique for better skincare absorption and natural skin remedies into my routine.
Perfect your technique with these tips
- Always blend with a damp makeup sponge for seamless transitions
- Use cream-based products that won’t settle into fine lines
- Apply in natural light to avoid overdoing it
- Start with less product and build gradually
The complete transformation
The combined effect of these three techniques has been remarkable. Friends constantly ask if I’ve “had work done,” never suspecting that my transformation comes from makeup techniques rather than a surgeon’s hand.
I’ve also found that my anti-aging hair solutions complement these makeup moves perfectly, creating a fully rejuvenated look.
Embracing age with confidence
As fall approaches, I’m embracing these techniques with renewed enthusiasm. There’s something empowering about taking control of my appearance in subtle ways that enhance rather than mask my mature beauty.
Remember, these techniques aren’t about erasing age but celebrating it with confidence and skill. Like an artist who knows exactly where to add light and shadow, I’ve learned to be my own beauty expert—no surgery required.