Age Defying Cosmetic Tips

There are so many ways to reduce the signs of aging that some women may not be aware of. Sometimes we get stuck in a rut, using the same products year after year. Other times, we may be afraid to experiment with new products. I have used my face as a guinea pig to test these age defying makeup tricks.

When I was younger, I used a liquid foundation, concealer, and powder combination to achieve maximum coverage. Now that I am older, I have noticed that the powder tends to settle into fine lines and wrinkles making them more noticeable. To keep your eye area looking youthful, never, EVER apply powder to the area beneath your eyes. Foundation and concealer/highlighter should provide all the coverage in this area that you need in this area. To reduce shine on the forehead, nose, and chin, I have switched to NYC Naturals Smooth Mineral Loose Finishing Powder ($8). This product provides a sheer finish without adding to the fine lines.

Our lips are an are of our faces that tends to show age first. To restore a youthful pout, start with an exfoliator like Philosophy Kiss Me Exfoliating Lip Scrub ($15 at www.sephora.com), to remove rough, dry skin. Next, to diminish the appearance of fine lines around your lips, apply a concealer that is one shade lighter than your skin tone to your lip line. The Hard Candy Nobody's Perfect Concealer Palettes ($8 at www.walmart.com) contain the right shades for most women. Blend the concealer into the lip-line with your fingertip or a cosmetic applicator. Now that your lips are primed, skip the liner. Lined lips can appear harsh, and actually add years to your lips. Instead of liner or opaque lipstick, apply a sheer, moisturizing lip product like Sally Hansen Collagen Lip Lift in Hint of Love ($8 at drugstores). A sheer pink tint is the best option for younger looking lips.

A great mascara is essential to making your eyes appear younger. Longer, curled lashes serve to open the eye, giving you a more wide awake look. My favorite choice for a more youthful eye appearance is Maybelline Sky High Curves Extreme Length and Curl Mascara in Brownish Black (about $5 at www.thefind.com). Before I apply this amazing mascara, I use an eyelash curler, and then dust my lashes with powder to help the mascara adhere to them. I then use 2-3 coats of the Sky High Curves on my upper lashes only.

We all have to face the fact that we are going to age, but no one said that we could not put up a fight!