Beautiful Makeup After 50: Expert Tips for a Natural Glow

Megan Harrison is a makeup artist in high demand—from the catwalk to the aisle. Her looks have graced celebrities, Melbourne Fashion Week, and our very own Blue Illusion shoots. Today, we sit down with Megan to discover her top makeup tips for mature women that will have your skin—and soul—positively glowing!

Megan's makeup philosophy

You’ve worked across so many areas of beauty—from editorial to fashion to real-world brides. What inspires your passion for makeup?

My favourite part of my job is making people feel beautiful. I've seen how makeup can help a woman appreciate her features, especially aspects she may not have noticed before.

“I like to enhance natural beauty,not cover it up.”

How would you describe your makeup philosophy, particularly for women over 50?

I like to enhance natural beauty, not cover it up. Makeup is an accessory—like jewellery or a bag! A pop of red on the lip or some fluttery lashes can complete an outfit.

Doing makeup for women over 50 is some of my favourite work. I love breaking outdated ‘rules’ like no colourful eyeshadow or no bright lipstick. Older women can wear everything that younger women can!

What do you love about Blue Illusion’s approach to beauty and confidence?

Blue Illusion’s philosophy aligns really closely with my own. The way they use accessories—like scarves, bags and shoes—to boost an outfit or take it from one occasion to another, is the same way I use makeup. Adding some winged eyeliner to a daytime look carries it to
an evening event.

Natural makeup for women over 50

What are some of the most common things women feel about makeup as they age?

Wanting to keep their look natural is common. Women don't want to wear heavy makeup because it can accentuate signs of aging, and also feel like they're trying too hard to look young.

Many women say their makeup routine just doesn’t work any more. Why does this happen, and where should we start when it’s time for a refresh?

As we age, skin loses collagen, shows the effects of gravity, and becomes drier—all of which changes how makeup sits. Maybe you once used powder for oily skin but find it's looking cakey now. Or perhaps you loved a winged eyeliner but find it's not sitting right because your eye shape has changed.

The best thing for a refresh is to go back to basics. Focus on hydrating skincare, choose a lightweight but buildable foundation, and move to cream products for blush and
bronzer.

“The best thing for a refresh is togo back to basics.”

What are some of the biggest makeup mistakes to avoid over 50 that can age us or dull our natural glow?

Not using a moisturiser with enough hydration. Using too much powder. And using products like highlighter and lipstick with a shimmery, frosty texture.

Expert tips and techniques

What small changes to a makeup routine can make a big difference?

As women age, we start losing hair, including eyebrows. Eyebrows define our eyes and bring structure to the face, and full ones are very youthful looking. Not filling in eyebrows is a
step that is often overlooked.

Skin texture and tone can shift over time. Given this, what are your recommendations on how to apply makeup over 50?

The number one anti-aging product is a great SPF 50+.

As we age, women can develop redness, which can be hard to correct. A green-tinted primer before foundation works wonders.

I use a lightweight foundation on women over 50 to help even skin tone, but avoid too much product that can sink into fine lines. A dusting of setting powder can help stop everything from moving.

What are your go-to products or techniques for achieving that healthy, luminous look?

I like to mix a luminising serum or primer into a moisturiser and apply that first. I also love a cream blush tapped on to the cheeks with fingers. A bronzing stick on the cheekbones and forehead adds a touch of healthy bronze.

Beyond makeup, how do other factors play into that lit from within beauty we all want?

Skincare is arguably more important than makeup here. Hydrating fragrance-free products, an SPF, and active ingredients like retinol and Vitamin C are key. A good sheet mask will add plumpness. Drink plenty of water and, if you’re outdoors often, wear a hat.

“Drink plenty of water and, if you’re outdoors often, wear a hat.”

From confused to confident

So much of beauty is about how we feel. How can makeup become a source of confidence rather than pressure?

Women should never feel pressured to wear makeup! Some tinted SPF and a swipe of lip balm can be all you need, especially if you like the no-makeup makeup look.

Learning new techniques can boost confidence, too. Spend some time practicing when you're not in a rush. Makeup should be fun!

Applying makeup can be one of the few quiet moments in a woman’s day—make it a meditative act of self-care.

How can women embrace simplicity while still feeling expressive and modern?

I'm definitely a ‘less is more’ makeup artist. Keep your day-to-day base simple, then just add eyeliner or lipstick to dress up your look for evening.

Choose your favourite feature and play it up. If you love your eyes, try an easily blendable eyeshadow stick and some new mascara. If you love some colour, try a new lipstick or a cream blush.

“Choose your favourite feature and play it up.”

Brushes can be helpful in applying and blending but I also love to just use fingers to work products into the skin.

Finally, what’s one message you’d love every woman over 50 to remember about her beauty?

There is beauty at every age! So much is what shines through in the way a person smiles or how warm they are. Makeup is just a fun way to enhance that inner beauty.

Small changes to your routine that suit your stage of life can make you feel confident. I've seen women over 50 light up at having their makeup done because they feel pampered and special. Day to day, try giving yourself that gift.