Makeup is one of the most powerful tools to fight signs of ageing on the face, and this includes tools designed for use on the eyes.
However, according to one makeup artist, cosmetics like mascara are overlooked by those hoping to look that little bit younger.
Professional makeup artist Saffron Hughes, from FalseEyelashes claimed: “Mascara is a powerful tool for defying the ageing process.
“I’d argue that using a mascara wand to enhance your eyes can do more for maintaining a youthful look than a concealer, which is often used to cover fine lines.”
That said, Saffron noted that it’s not as simple as just wearing mascara, but rather focusing on careful application.
When worn correctly, it can work wonders for reversing signs of tiredness and time, according to the beauty expert.
She explained: “As we age, the skin around our eyes tends to become more hooded, and the area beneath our eyes may lose volume, leading to the appearance of darker circles.
“Mascara application effectively draws attention away from these signs of ageing and redirects the focus to the unaffected part of the eye – the colourful iris.”
To make this as impactful as possible, Saffron suggested some careful preparation by curling, brushing and separating bare lashes before using coloured, waterproof formulas on top.
How to look younger with mascara
Curling is important to stimulate the “thickness and curl” of eyelashes which in turn, diminishes the appearance of closed, hooded eyes, claimed Saffron.
Simply take a curling tool and hold it in place for five to 10 seconds for maximum results.
Next, swap ordinary formulas for waterproof alternatives, preferably with the right mascara wand for your eyes. The beauty professional said: “I would always recommend waterproof mascara to my mature makeup clients because if mascara smudges or runs below the eyes, it can undo the anti-ageing effects and create unwanted shadows.”
A long, skinny, toothed mascara wand that is slightly tapered at the end is best for “precision and well-defined lashes”, which can be achieved by lightly wiggling the wand up from the lashline in layers.
The makeup artist suggested: “When applying extra mascara after your base layer, pay special attention to the outer third of your lashes. For an even wider-eyed appearance, apply pencil eyeliner along the outer third of your lash line.
“This technique enhances the thickness of the lashes on the outer third of your eye, resulting in a broader and more youthful look.”
Her final tip for brighter “doe-eyes” was to trade black formulas for brown or even blue.
Saffron concluded: “Eye colour remains consistent as we age. Draw attention to your beautiful eye colour by experimenting with coloured mascaras. This can divert unwanted attention away from other ageing aspects of the eyes.”
According to natural colour theory, brown mascara compliments blue eyes, red tones enhance emerald tones and for those with rich brown eyes, a navy mascara can work wonders.
