We all fall into beauty ruts, using the same make-up for years.  But did you know a new look can make you look younger instantly?  Here are some of our best tips.

Primers & Foundation

Primers are a godsend when you're over 30 and your skin may look duller than a decade ago or is showing lines. You can now buy products to minimise pores, smooth wrinkles, minimise shine, boost radiance and brighten the complexion. All help create the illusion of better skin. Some you apply under your foundation, others you can mix with it.

Your choice of foundation is important too, sheer, light reflecting formulations make your complexion look brighter. You should steer clear of matte and powdery finishes as they can deaden the skin and highlight lines. A creamy formulation with a satiny finish that you can apply just in the areas you need to even out your skin tone. Avoid being too heavy-handed with powder as it will make your skin look drier and settle into creases. A translucent or skin-matching shade in the t-zone is enough to both set makeup and prevent shine.

PRODUCT LINK -- Facial Products 

Blusher
Blusher can instantly make you look more youthful - provided you choose the right colour. Avoid drab, ashy, flat, browns.  The same goes for muddy brown bronzers as they drain your skin completely. Your skin naturally loses pigment as you age, so blusher is the perfect pick-me-up. Think pretty colour-wise. Soft roses and apricots are really flattering and natural looking. Don't apply blusher under your cheekbones as this can make you look too gaunt. Smile at yourself in the mirror to locate the apples of your cheeks and pop the colour on there.

PRODUCT LINK  - Cheeks

Eyeshadow
Mineral eyeshadows have excellent light reflecting properties and can brighten up and open the eye.   A shadow or cream with a sheen is both flattering and fashionable. As for colours, black can look a bit ageing rock-chick if you're the wrong side of 30.  Less is more especially as you get older.  Browns/rust/copper tones work well on blue eyes.  Plums and peaches for green eyes.  Deeper peaches/pinks for brown eyes. A touch of light colour in the socket line and brow bone opens up the eyes and rejuvenates a tired make-up routine. 

PRODUCT LINK - Eyes 

Lipstick
Lips lose their fullness and become paler over time. But there are tricks to give you back your pout. Just adding a hint of colour will make you look more youthful. Rose pinks, apricots and berry shades are all good choices for lifting the complexion. Texture matters too. Matte can be ageing, so choose moisturising, creamy and semi-sheer lipstick finishes. You can also add gloss on top of your usual lip colour to give a fuller effect. Outlining your lips with pencil can help to make them look fuller too. Just make sure the pencil matches your lipcolour, so you look chic and polished.

PRODUCT LINK - Lips 

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