I can definitely see myself wearing makeup into my 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond (I’m 39 now and lovin’ it!). It’s such a big part of my everyday life, and I still enjoy it very much. I can’t imagine not wearing it.
I’m sure my style will change as I “grow up,” of course, but I like to think that even when I’m a sassy 60-something surrounded by 18 cats, I’ll still be busting out the big glam fairly often. 😀
If, as I grow older, I’m judged for still playing with makeup, I’m perfectly comfortable with that.
How about you, friend? Do you see yourself wearing makeup into your 40s (if you’re under 40), 50s, 60s and beyond? Please leave your answer in the comments below!
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
Agata says
I don’t think I will EVER stop wearing makeup (and I have more than enough products to last me till I die, lol). I really like older ladies who take care of themselves and who use makeup to emphasize their beauty and not just to hide their age.
Karen says
Me too! I saw a lovely woman on the plane ride home who was in her 60s and WORKING IT. Happy Friday, by the way. Any plans for the long weekend?
Agata says
Work! Surprise, surprise! But me and hubby are trying to plan somewhere to go for Sunday after work and Monday, maybe Canada but we cannot find any place that’s not booked already. My requirements are beach and a cute Bed and Breakfast, lol.
What about you? Do you have any plans?
Jessica Valade says
I don’t plan to ever stop wearing makeup – applying my makeup is one of my favorite things to do each day, and I want to be able to have that for the rest of my life!
BT says
I turned 38 this spring, and I know I enjoy my makeup much more now than I did when I was in my teens and twenties. So, I can’t really see myself not enjoying wearing makeup in to my 40’s and beyond. I have two young boys, and when time for myself was at a minimum when they were babies, putting on makeup was my my fun way to relax and be creative.
Gemma says
I think as long as it’s well-applied, women should wear make-up in older age if they want to. I definitely will be! Gemma x
Ruta says
Honestly, I think I’ll be wearing more the older I get, or at the very least I’ll never walk away from lipstick.
That said my mom never wears make up outside the occasional swipe of YSL rouge voloupte and I do hope I’ll be able to pull that off when I’m her age.
Janet A says
I’m mid 40s now and can’t see myself going without makeup ever!
Kwmechelle says
Ab-so-po-si-lute-ly (word I just made up)! In fact, I was walking a friend’s two dogs last week & came upon a friendly 80+ year old woman who stopped us to chat. As I complimented her, she raved about how she hadn’t even put on her lipstick, yet.
That’s totally going to be me. Upwards of 80+ and still fly!
Laarni says
I hope so, Karen! One time at the mall, I saw this very glam old woman and I can’t stop looking at her makeup and her fashion sense. I also love the character Victoria (Madeleine Stowe IRL) on Revenge TV series! I wanna be her! <3
Have a great weekend!
Kiss & Make-up says
Until the day I take my last breath!
Amanda says
My exes grandma is almost 85 and that woman’s make up is flawless. She is stylish, classic, and put together from her brows down to her feet. She is truly inspirational. I’ve never seen any woman-any age- look so great and have such a great eye for doing her own makeup.
LindaLibraLoca says
As I am (already) in my mid-thirties, I will definitely wear make-up in my forties, and most likely go on for a long time. My mother turns 65 this year and seldom leaves the house without liner, mascara and lipstick, and I still recall my grandmother who passed away aged 94 wearing rosy-tinted lipbalm and perfume every day.
Mary says
Karen, I’m now 71. I don’t leave the house without mineral foundation with SPF and lipstick. I frequently include eyeliner, mascara and blush. Who knows? I might run into Tabs and want to look my best. XXOO
Stephanie says
I was just talking to my best friend about this! I’m 45 and about 2 years ago I started freaking out, thinking I didn’t have many “makeup years” left. But I’ve decided I’m going to wear makeup forever.
Vespers says
Absolutely. One of my grandmothers wore full-face makeup almost up until the day she died (she was 90), along with perfume (usually Guerlain – Jicky or Mitsouko) and perfectly “done” hair. Forever my style role model.
Diane says
Absolutely. I love makeup’s ability to boost my mood, it’s fun to play with, and I think it’s something you never outgrow.
Georgia says
But of course! I’m over 60 and seems like I’m freer and more adventurous when it comes to experimenting with makeup. Not afraid to try new colors and techniques. If it’s a fail, at least I’ll have fun playing with all the pretty stuff
leolion says
I’m 41 and I can’t see myself NOT wearing makeup in my 90s. I am isnpired by my grandma, she is 92 and she is still doing it =)))
Shay says
I’m 67 and still playing with makeup. I love it!!!!! It’s fun and gives me a boost when I look in the mirror or have people tell me how good I look even on days when I don’t feel well. Those dark circle concealers are fantastic….LOL. And, it’s amazing what a bit of blush can do 😉
Doreen G. says
I’am over 60 and wear makeup all the time and always have..I’am addicted to skincare and makeup.
Still dabble with all different makeup brands..Mac, Nar’s, Tom Ford, Mufe,
lots of lip glosses too from Nar’s, Mac,
Queen. Etc. coral Fushia you name it!
I contour, use bronzer, highlighter, primer!
I love no concealer for under eyes followed by rodial syn-ake concealer.
Oh Urban decay’s new Perversion mascara and primer..love this stuff!
Oh I’m also a brush addict! Especially
Hakuhodo..i have several and have my eye on more the itabake med. when its back in stock! And powedr brush in the J series. I’ve done makeup for yrs. for friends and weddings,etc. i’m always watching for the newest and latest.
Just ordered mac contour powder in sculpt, and I can’t wait to get it!!
I’m still 30 at heart :)) Shue Eumera
Light bulb foundation is fantastic!!!!
Doreen G. says
Question? Karen how do you upload a photo on here?
Thank’s, have a great weekend!!
Karen says
Hi Doreen,
I wish I could figure out a way to make it easier, but instead of uploading, you can link to any pictures you have on another service by copying the address to the pic, usually by right clicking the image and then choosing to “Copy Image URL,” or another option that sounds like that, and then pasting it into your comment.
Also, once you’ve copied the link, if you place the link into a tag like this…
The image will appear in the comments like this…
I know it’s kind of complicated, but it’s the only way I know to insert photos within the comments section here on the blog.
Vanessa says
I don’t think I’ll wear it for everyday, but I’d still bring out the glam now and then
Martha says
Of course I will, my mother(72) and my MIL(78) still “put on their faces” as they call it, every day. 🙂 The last time I went to Target with my MIL, we spent 30 mins in the makeup section asking each other for product recommendations. It’s in our genes.
Kathleen says
I only started wearing makeup in my early 40s because it evened out my skin and made my face look more put together. Most days I wear a low-key nearly-nude makeup look, but I do like bright lipsticks. I imagine I’ll keep doing something similar as I get older, especially favoring tinted moisturizers and lightweight glowy foundations, instead of something matte and heavy that would emphasize my wrinkles.
Martha says
P.S. Your granny is so cute!! Her lip gloss matches her fleece top.
Ankie says
Since I am still young (22), I have never thought about myself wearing make up as an elderly lady, or even being that age. However, my gran still rocks foundation and blush at the age of 86 and looks fabulous and ever so age appropriate. She in no way looks like she wants to hide her age, but I think it is all about her making herself feel good and pretty. 🙂
Cathy says
Ab-so-lute-ly!!! I’m 60 now and I’ve never been more passionate about make-up. I’ve spent a lot of time reading blogs and looking at UTube tutorials on ‘Make-up for Mature Women’, and I’ve come to the conclusion that the general consensus is that we should be content with our little 6 x 4 make-up bag containing a spot of pinky-peach lippy, a nice muddy taupy eye shadow a spot of mascara and some tinted moisturiser. No, no, no. I will have to live as long as Methuselah to use up my make-up (hubby calls it my make-up emporium). I buy make-up every week. Another lippy, another new foundation, another mascara or blusher, or eye shadow (just between you and me, sometimes it’s all of them!). I really believe that the older you are the greater the need for make-up. Not a la Cartland, mind. But there’s no reason why the wrinklies-r-us brigade shouldn’t experiment. I look forward to putting on my make-up every day and never leave the house without any on, doesn’t matter whether I’m going out, shopping or doing a 60-mile bike ride. I love reading beauty and make-up blogs (such as yours) and my daughters, who are 35, ask ME for make-up advice. The day I’m no longer interested in make-up will probably be the day I’m ferried out of the house in a wooden box!
Jenny says
I’ll be wearing makeup well into my 90s. Assuming I live that long. Even if it’s just a little lipstick and powder that I use at that age, the power of makeup is amazing at lifting the spirits. I think every woman at every age wants to feel beautiful, and a little red lipstick can do just that.
MARIAN DOUKOURE says
Totally. I mean I am pretty young now and makeup dominates my life and maybe that will change in ten years. But as of now, I can assure you that makeup will be just one of the many ways I choose to express myself, and share myself, without giving too much, with others. It is transformative and I love that. So I think I will wear it till my days end, no harm no foul.
Allison C says
I already am. Why would you stop wearing makeup? You just have to know how to apply it appropriately
Majick says
Until the day I die…
I stole my first avon lipstick sample from my Mom when I was 5 and have been playing ever since – I am 54.
Beverly spell says
I am a 46 y o makeup fanatic . I will always wear makeup! I love it! I too have a makeup blog just starting out though. Take care! P.s I love cats too have 2:)
Julie O says
Absolutely! I’m 62 and wouldn’t leave the house without at least e/s, brows, eye liner and blush. If I’m not wearing a tinted moisturizer with SPF, i have on sunscreen. I read your blog religiously and love your writing and sense of humor. My two cats, Gadget and Gidget, are jealous of Tabs. They’re thinking of questions to ask The Master. Right now they’re sleeping. Thanks for a very informative and fun blog!
Bella says
Funny question, is there something that says you shouldn’t? I’m 46 and just really starting to get into it.
Tatiana says
Turning 55 this year. Yep, still wearing makeup. It’s different than when I was in my 20’s. I no longer do a smokey eye and I spend more time looking for the right texture and finish of my makeup. I find I also spend more time on skincare and trying to found the perfect foundation so my complexion looks it’s best. Sunscreen has been my best friend for about 30 years now. Wish I hadn’t tried to tan so much as a teenager. Even if I stopped wearing eyeshadow, I doubt I will ever stop wearing lipstick.
Betsy says
I am 67, wear makeup, nail polish and fragrance like I always have and have never thought about stopping. There is something about getting “all dolled up”, to use a VERY old expression, that makes you feel more feminine, womanly and just generally happier. Stopping would mean just giving up on life – not a good idea at any age!
Denise says
I’ve always loved makeup from when I was nicking stuff from my mum at aged 5 (ok, lets change that to ‘borrowing’ – I always put it back but somehow my mum with her spidey sense always knew I’d been in her makeup bag!) and here I am at 50 y o still loving it (even more, if thats possible). Makeup just gives me that extra little boost for when I go out and face the world. If its done tastefully and not heavy handedly then go for it; actually even if it isn’t – go for it! The important thing is I guess – if you feel great wearing it and it gives you a confidence boost just do it! I for one will be rocking it into my twilight years!
Lisa says
As long as I can still lift my hand to my face I will wear makeup. And if I can’t I’ll figure out another way. 🙂
Rachel R. says
I’m almost 45, and I absolutely still wear makeup. I will stop when they pry my favorite shade of hot pink lipstick out of my cold, dead hand. Most people think I’m at least 10 years younger than I am, so my makeup isn’t aging me. I’m sure what I wear will change and adapt to my looks, but I’ll be wearing something.
Your grandma is beautiful. Tell her she rocks her lip gloss.
Irene says
Absolutely! I come from a family of women who take pride in their looks. My mom and sister never leave the house without makeup. My grandmother, who is in her 80s, doesn’t leave the house without lipstick and foundation. I’m home right now on maternity leave and make sure to out some makeup on even if we just go on a walk in the neighborhood. Since my body is still dealing with the aftermath of childbirth (again), at least the makeup helps me to still feel pretty and presentable. I hope to one day teach my daughter to do the same. I made a vow to myself that as a wife and mother, and as a woman in general, to never let myself go.
Diana says
Of course! I grew up with women of all ages (teenagers, adults, seniors) wearing makeup solely for making themselves feel good about themselves.
Lisa M. says
YES!! I think women of all ages need color on their face. It helps brighten the face and enhances ones features. I have seen many older women that are beautiful and do a wonderful job on their make-up. My Nana always wore pink nail polish with pink lipstick and rouge. She was well into her 80’s. I think as we age, we have a tendency to look washed out if we have no color on our face. I for one will be wearing make-up in each decade of life.
Erica says
(In my Dave Chappelle/Lil ‘Jon voice) WHAT!?! I’m 51, my Mom turns 75 in September and my Grandma is 95. We all wear age appropriate makeup. My Mom is the reason I’m a makeup fanatic. Her vanity is wonderfully ridiculous. I will continue to wear makeup AFTER I die. The kids know at my funeral I better have Nars Taj Mahal blush on my cheeks and Tom Ford on my lips…Yes!
Arielle says
Erica, you made me laugh about your funeral…lol. I am 61 and I still wear make up and perfume every day, even if I am sitting around at home. I want to look beautiful for myself 🙂
Angela says
I am 46, and wear makeup everyday….I like to try out different looks, sometimes really bold ones. Why? Because life is short! Why not make yourself pretty when you feel like it? 🙂
Fancie says
I do! Lol I’m gonna be like a crazy dog lady with lots of bright lipstick and pretty blush
Lori P says
I 46 and wear makeup almost every day. I’m going to wear makeup until I can’t no longer. I’m also a BIG advocate of skin care because I see/saw what my Mom and Nana did and they don’t look their age. When my Nana passed away 10 years ago at the age of 91…her skin was flawless. I just hope that I’m that lucky too.
zFashionizta says
Absolutely, I’m in the age group right now. I have purchased more makeup in my forties then I ever did before. What I am not crazy about are frost or anything with too much shimmer (but I do own some), I think they are a bit much for a person in my age group group.
Jen says
Had to try out the instructions to include a photo.
Jen says
Debi says
I don’t think I will ever stop loving make up. I am 58, and since I have always sunburned in about 5 minutes I never got much sun exposure so I just have a few very fine lines. So I think I will be wearing some type of foundation forever. I have been a makeup junkie since age 15 when I used babysitting money to buy makeup. My favorite non creasing concealer is a coat of the bobbi brown liquid corrector in porcelain bisque, topped with a thin coat of the lightest Armani concealer with the tiny brush. It doesn’t crease even in this hot Texas weather.
artemis says
I will never stop 😀
Barbara says
I love makep and continue to wear the basics (sunscreen, mascara, blush, concealer and lip balm) everyday at 51. The only complaint I have is most companies make too much sparkly eyeshadow! I bought a beautiful vanity for my bedroom and just love getting made up. I love Clinique products and purchase every bonus which results in lots of mini products.
Gillian says
Absolutely!!! I’m 45 now going on 46 in the not too distant and I adore make-up, never go out without it,in fact I never stay in without it. I actually said to my family the other day that when I die I want my make-up beautifully done please. I think there’s nothing more attractive than seeing an older lady who still takes the utmost care of her appearance and that will be me if I’m lucky enough to live into my 80’s and beyond.
Anita Williams says
I’m 49 years old and I love makeup! ! It’s like art for me. I have been doing it since I was 15 years old. I don’t care what people think. It’s me! It doesn’t matter what kind of work I do. I’ll still wear it! I really enjoy Karen, how you try all brands.
StrayCat says
Is there something about being older that would keep me from not wearing makeup? Maybe my eyesight, but that’s what magnifying mirrors are for. I’m 57 and although I don’t wear makeup when I’m just hanging around the house, I NEVER do errands or go about the shops without makeup. It would be like going out without showering and brushing my teeth! Just because someone gets older doesn’t mean they no longer care about their appearance. If that’s some kind of assumption people make, that’s sad. In the last few months I’ve upgraded and added to my makeup collection to the tune of about $2,500.00. I’m old, remember, and can afford it. Ha!
Fran says
Sheesh! I didn’t *start* wearing make-up every day (beyond clear brow gel and lip balm) until my mid-50s, when my sun-sensitive rosacea started demanding daily SPF and evening out of my skin tone — it’s only when you’re younger that you can look really good going bare-faced, I think. Now I put on tinted moisturizer with SPF, tinted brow gel, and tinted lip balm with SPF even to go for a walk in the woods, use lots more products if I’m going to work. Makeup can be a ton of fun and a great mood-booster as long as you don’t take the “rules” too seriously and pay attention to what makes *you* look good instead. And that might even be bright purple lipstick or iridescent green eyeshadow in your 100s. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something, try it out for yourself and see how it looks!
Monique says
YESSS!!!! As long as I can I will. Makeup is a wonderful thing! No matter what age!!
This was a great question 😀
Blanca F says
Makeup is a pleasure for me. Not a chore or inconvenient necessity like it may be for some women. I like seeing how something as simple as makeup can enhance how I look, which perks up how I feel mood-wise.
Sheryl says
I’m 62, and just as obsessed with makeup as ever. I love applying it, wearing it, looking at it (I love your blog for that reason), playing at the cosmetic counters and at Ulta and Sephora). I love watching tutorials, especially eye makeup. I have a large collection of different brands, but MAC is still my favorite. I love makeup, and can see myself wearing it in my 90s if I live that long!
Iris says
I definitely see myself still wearing makeup into my 40’s and beyond. 🙂 I may tone it down a bit but I couldn’t imagine not wearing makeup.
Mellecannelle says
Yes, I also think, I will put on some makeup, when I’m 50, 60 …
Maybe just tinted moisturizer. Maybe I’ll dye my lashes, so I don’t have to use mascara.
And for sure I’ll be using blush and lipstick!
Astrild says
I’m 41 and I began to wear makeup regularly only for the last 3 years. ¡¡I’m a beginner!!
Ivey G says
I enjoyed reading this post! I can see myself wearing makeup into my 60’s and beyond if God grants me those years:) I’m in my thirties and I started at 12 I stole my mom’s Estee Lauder lipstick it was gorgeous (she forgave me:) and I was hooked:) Anyway, I might use a light foundation, blush, and lip products who knows:))
Nina says
Oh, please…is this even a question? I’m 46 and love it more than I did a few decades ago (and think I apply it better if I may say so myself!). My mother, in her 70’s, set the example, and loves talking products with me….no one can believe she is her age. I truly believe we MUST be doing this for ourselves, because we love it, because we have fun with it, are artistic with it, find fulfillment in experimenting and playing with it, and feel stronger and more confident and happy because of it. More companies, in my opinion, are formulating items keeping aging skin in mind, and I think things are looking up every day for “the mature woman” and we should not give up on ourselves!