8. Use a lash curler and black mascara
We all know curling lashes opens the eyes, but here’s another trick. Once lashes are securely in the curler, turn your wrist away from you as you squeeze to get maximum curl. Squeeze the closed curler for a few seconds, relax it, then squeeze again — and always curl before mascara, never after. Black mascara is the best shade for everyone, but the formula makes the difference. At age 50-plus most of us have short or thin lashes that benefit from a lightweight plumping formula — like the CoverGirl Simply Ageless Lash Plumping Mascara in 110 Soft Black ($10, target.com) — rather than a heavy, gimmicky lash-lengthening one. Go for volume, not length. And, of course, for those with watery eyes or moist lids, a waterproof mascara like L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Mascara in 360 Waterproof Black ($9, target.com) or Maybelline Full ‘N Soft Waterproof Mascara in 311 Waterproof Very Black ($8, target.com) is a must.
(Left to right) Kiss MLBB Lashes; Duo Lash Adhesive Brush On Clear; Ardell Naked No. 433 False Eyelashes
CVS; Target (2)
9. Try false lashes
How much effort you’re willing to put in to a daily “eye” is a very personal choice. Mascara does plenty, but for an extra boost try fake lashes. They can make all the difference to mature eyes, especially at parties or evening events (where the lighting is usually terrible or dim) and, of course, in photos. Forget looking overdone and choose a natural-looking strip — like the Kiss MLBB Lashes ($5, cvs.com) or Ardell Naked No. 433 False Eyelashes ($4, target.com) — rather than over-the-top, superthick statement styles. Lashes do give our mature eyes — especially those that are small, deep-set or have crepey, softened lids — a fresh, wide-awake look. No need to splurge. Inexpensive drugstore lashes are super-evolved with flexible skinny or transparent bases. Try an updated clear glue like Duo Lash Adhesive Brush On Clear ($5, target.com), which doesn’t contain latex or formaldehyde, and is odorless, water resistant, quick drying and easy on sensitive eyes. Get one set for starters before springing for a multipack.
(From top to bottom) JOAH Brow Down To Me Precision Brow Pencil; L’Oréal Paris Brow Stylist Micro Ink Pen; Maybelline Brow Fast Sculpt Eyebrow Gel
CVS (2); Maybelline
10. Do your brow tails
Finally, brow makeup is the finishing touch that makes any eye makeup look better. Most women in their 50s, 60s and 70s are missing brow tails or have very sparse outer brows. You don’t need to fuss or get into a complicated multistep routine. Just finish and lift your brow shape by extending it outward to stretch the shape. It expands the look of your entire eye area and makes you look groomed. Try a firm, fine-tipped pencil such as the JOAH Brow Down To Me Precision Brow Pencil ($9, cvs.com) or a waterproof brow pen like the L’Oréal Paris Brow Stylist Micro Ink Pen ($13, cvs.com) — both make drawing realistic hairlike strokes to fill gaps and duplicate a tail easy. For super quick color and grooming, try a mascara-like tinted gel such as the Maybelline Brow Fast Sculpt Eyebrow Gel ($9, cvs.com) to shape wiry, unruly brows. Those above come in plenty of authentic-looking shades. When in doubt, always go a shade lighter than you think.
Lois Joy Johnson is a beauty and style editor who focuses on women 50 and older. She was the beauty and style editor at Ladies’ Home Journal and a founding editor of More magazine. She has written three books: The Makeup Wakeup, The Wardrobe Wakeup and The Woman’s Wakeup.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published on Dec. 24, 2020. It has been updated with new products.
