The best eyeshadows for mature eyes, according to makeup artists

Powder or cream? Color or neutrals? Primer or no primer? Eyeshadow is a delicate art form at any age, but as we get older, finding formulas that don’t crease or enhance lines and wrinkles can be a challenge.

“Beautiful eye makeup isn’t about using more product—it’s about thoughtful placement, soft blending, and enhancing the natural shape of the eye. Small adjustments, like lifting the outer corner of your shadow placement or keeping darker colors slightly higher on the eye, can make a huge difference,” says celebrity makeup artist and Sheglam global beauty partner Ash K Holm. “Don’t feel like your age should dictate how you wear makeup. The goal is simply to adapt your techniques as your skin changes, while still wearing whatever makes you feel your most confident.”

The Best Eyeshadows for Women Over 50:

• Best Palette: Makeup by Mario Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette: The Neutrals ($56)
• Best Waterproof: Danessa Myricks Beauty Colorfix ($20)
• Best Liquid: Armani Beauty Eye Tint ($39)

The right eyeshadow makes a big difference, but so does the technique. For example, try applying concealer on the lids as a primer before using your favorite shadow. “Your eyelids show more veins and discoloration as you age, so you do need a bit of evening out, but be selective about where you apply concealer and how much you use,” says celebrity makeup artist Fiona Stiles. “I like to use a soft, fluffy eyeshadow brush to apply a very thin layer of tint or concealer on the lids, avoiding the crease, and then dust on some setting powder before I apply eyeshadow. The Maxine’s Revenge French Face concealer is my absolute go-to.”

The biggest mistake women over 50 make when it comes to eyeshadow? “Applying too much product,” says Holm. “As we get older, the skin on the eyelids naturally changes, so keeping layers thin is key. I always prep the lids first by making sure they’re hydrated—but not oily. If there’s excess skincare on the lid, I’ll gently blot it before makeup.”

Ahead, the expert makeup artists share their picks for the seven best eyeshadows for mature eyes, including palettes and creams in every shade.

Should You Use Cream or Powder Eyeshadow on Mature Eyes?

“When it comes to cream eyeshadows and mature skin, the key is in the finish. Anything matte will look drying, as cream eyeshadows contain volatile ingredients that flash off as the product dries down, which can lead to dehydrated-looking lids,” says Stiles. “That said, cream formulas with a touch of sheen can look incredible and last throughout the day. The sheen keeps the skin looking radiant, softly catching the light, sidestepping the crepey look matte liquid or cream shadows can create.”

Stiles says to avoid shimmer on the crease, as it can accentuate wrinkles. “Matte shadows are beautiful in the crease and along the lash line for definition, but an all-matte lid can feel flat,” she adds. “If you prefer a matte eyeshadow, consider popping a bit of a cream eyeshadow in a skin-toned shade in the center of the eye to catch the light. It’s a very easy hack that makes a big difference.”

What Are the Best Eyeshadow Colors for Women Over 50?

Both artists recommend softer neutrals like champagne, warm and shimmery taupes, deep bordeauxs, and dirty pinks as versatile options for everyone. “I’m not one for beauty rules; I feel like what makes you happy makes you beautiful, but that said, some colors can look heavy, unflattering, or dated. Black can look very severe, but a deep espresso or even deep purples can mimic that drama but with a hint of flattering warmth,” says Stiles. “You could also swap black for grey or a pretty deep aubergine if you have a cooler skin tone.”

Should Women Over 50 Use Eyeshadow Primer?

“Only when it’s needed,” says Holm. “If someone has oily lids or wants their eye makeup to last for a long event or photos, a lightweight primer can make a huge difference.” The key, she says, is to use a thin layer: “Too much primer can actually emphasize texture or cause products to bunch up.”

For clients with drier lids, Holm skips primer and uses concealer as needed. Her favorite is Sheglam Hideaway Full Coverage Concealer. “I actually like using a very small amount on the eyelids when I want to even out discoloration before shadow,” she says. “It’s lightweight, doesn’t feel heavy on the skin, and gives a smooth base without looking cakey.”

Stiles likes the eyeshadow primers from Nars and Urban Decay. “Finding a primer that doesn’t change the hue of an eyeshadow can be challenging—they tend to darken them and dull the color,” she says. “The ones from NARS and Urban Decay are my current kit favorites—they set the lid and give a smooth canvas for the shadow to lay on.”

How Can You Prevent Eyeshadow Fallout?

“Be mindful of fall-out, which can land under your eye and create a dark shadow. You can wait to do foundation and concealer until your eye makeup is done, and clean the area with a micellar water-soaked cotton swab after applying your shadow so the area stays smudge-free,” says Stiles. “And mascara is your best friend; you can really get so much definition with a few coats of a great mascara. You’ll find you can make your eyes stand out with less eyeshadow.”

Meet the Experts:

• Fiona Stiles is a celebrity makeup artist
• Ash K Holm is a celebrity makeup artist and the global beauty partner for Sheglam

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