5 Best Eyeshadows for Older Women And Mature Eyes In 2023

The beauty industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, acknowledging that beauty has no age limit. However, one group that often gets overlooked in the world of cosmetics is older women. More and more, women over 50 are expressing feelings of being underrepresented in the beauty sector. 

Fortunately, this is starting to change as companies are now focusing on creating products that cater to the unique needs of mature skin.

When it comes to makeup application for older women, selecting the right eyeshadow is crucial. Eyeshadow can not only enhance natural beauty but also address specific concerns that come with aging, such as dryness, fine lines, and changes in skin texture.

In this article, we will delve into the realm of the finest eyeshadows suitable for mature women. Our exploration will encompass the scientific aspects of aging skin as well as an overview of the various options of eyeshadows that can be found.

Changes in Skin

The journey of aging is a universal phenomenon, yet it remains a deeply personal experience, subtly changing our bodies and skin over time. 

According to a study beginning in our mid-20s, we lose about 1% of our skin’s collagen each year, and the production of new collagen significantly slows down. 

This inevitable reduction in collagen, combined with the loss of elastin and hyaluronic acid – key components for maintaining skin elasticity and moisture – contributes to the visible signs of aging such as wrinkles, dryness, and a less vibrant complexion.

These changes become more apparent in the eye area, often the first place to reveal signs of aging. The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of the face, making it more susceptible to fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles. 

In fact, a study found that structural changes in the eyelid skin were observable around the age of 40 in most women.

As our skin undergoes changes with age, it’s important to adjust our makeup techniques accordingly. Research published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science suggests that makeup has the potential to make a woman look up to ten years younger when applied correctly.

This includes the careful selection and application of eyeshadow. When used properly, eyeshadows can help accentuate the eyes, conceal age-related changes, and give a more youthful appearance.

By understanding these changes in our skin, we can adapt our makeup routine not to hide our age, but to embrace it while looking our best. Let’s explore the best eyeshadow for older skin.

5 Best Eyeshadows for Older Women: Top Pics 2023

Here is a short list of the best eyeshadow for older women in 2023:

1. URBAN DECAY Naked2 Basics Eyeshadow Palette (Best Overall)

2. W7 Mighty Mattes Eyeshadow Palette (Best for Long-Lasting)

3. Julep Eyeshadow 101 Crème to Powder Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick (Best Waterproof)

4. Mally Beauty Evercolor Shadow Stick Extra Velvet (Best Multi-color)

5. Eyeshadow Palette By Physicians Formula (Best For Sensitive Skin)

1. URBAN DECAY Naked2 Basics Eyeshadow Palette

Out of the 30 products we’ve meticulously tested, the Naked2 Basics Eyeshadow Palette by Urban Decay shines as the best overall eyeshadow for older women. As one of the stalwarts in the beauty industry, Urban Decay never fails to impress, and this palette is no exception.

Showcasing a sophisticated collection of six taupe and brown matte neutrals, it not only embraces but celebrates a spectrum of skin tones, particularly resonating with the grace of older skin.

What makes it an instant favorite? Its versatile matte shades! Whether you’re aiming for a subtle daytime charm or a sultry evening elegance, this palette has you covered. And the ultra-fine powders? They feel as soft as a dream, blending seamlessly onto any skin – a true testament to their compatibility with mature beauty.

A standout feature that many will appreciate is the palette’s triumph over creasing. Forget about eyeshadows betraying those fine lines; the Naked2 Basics ensures your eyelids flaunt nothing but smooth, lasting color.

And for those unpredictable moments – be it a sudden downpour or a touching moment leading to teary eyes – the waterproof formula holds steadfast, ensuring your beauty remains unblemished. Delivering intense color and a range of finishes, it’s more than just an eyeshadow palette; it’s a tool of artistry, ready to help craft countless looks.

Pros:

• The eyeshadow colors do not fade or melt away, ensuring your look remains fresh throughout the day.
• The formula is resistant to sweat, tears, and rain, perfect for any situation.
• With six different neutral matte shades, you can create a multitude of looks, from natural to dramatic.
• The eyeshadows do not settle into fine lines, making them ideal for older women.

Cons:

• Compared to other eyeshadow palettes, this one is on the pricier side. However, the quality justifies the cost.
• If you prefer having a mix of matte and shimmer shades in one palette, this might not be the one for you.

2. W7 Mighty Mattes Eyeshadow Palette

The W7 Mighty Mattes Eyeshadow certainly stands out as one of the Best Eyeshadows for Older Women. 

It’s a palette that offers a perfect blend of longevity, easy application, and professional quality, making it suitable for anyone desiring impactful and lasting eye makeup.

The W7 Mighty Mattes Eyeshadow is known for its long-lasting, vibrant colors. With this palette, you won’t have to worry about your eyeshadow fading or creasing throughout the day. 

The waterproof formula further adds to its durability, ensuring that your eye makeup withstands any condition without losing its vibrancy.

Despite its lasting formulation, the eyeshadows glide on smoothly, making them incredibly easy to use. 

Their blendable nature allows for a seamless transition between colors, enabling you to create various looks ranging from simple and natural to dramatic and smoky.

Pros:

• The eyeshadows stay put throughout the day without creasing or fading.
• The smooth and blendable formulation allows for easy application and seamless blending.
• Despite its affordable price, the eyeshadows offer a high color payoff comparable to high-end brands.
• The eyeshadows withstand various conditions thanks to their waterproof formulation.

Cons:

• This palette only includes matte neutral shades. If you’re looking for vibrant colors or shimmery finishes, this might not be for you.
• Packaging: Some users have noted that the packaging could be more sturdy.

3. Julep Eyeshadow 101 Crème to Powder Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick

The Julep Eyeshadow 101 Crème to Powder Eyeshadow Stick in Putty Matte stands out as one of the Best Eyeshadows for Older Women who value convenience, effectiveness, and natural ingredients. 

This eyeshadow stick promises a waterproof and crease-free experience, making it particularly suitable for mature skin.

Julep’s Eyeshadow Stick is renowned for its waterproof formula. It provides a rich, vibrant color that can withstand various conditions without fading or creasing. 

This durability, combined with the easy glide-on application, makes it a preferred choice for many older women who seek hassle-free, reliable eyeshadow.

The natural, effective ingredients in this eyeshadow, including vitamins C and E, further enhance its appeal. These vitamins offer antioxidant properties that protect the skin, highlighting the brand’s emphasis on combining beauty and skincare.

Pros:

• The eyeshadow’s formula is resistant to sweat, tears, and rain, ensuring a lasting makeup look.
• The eyeshadow includes vitamins C and E, adding a skincare aspect to the product.
• The stick format and brush-free application make it convenient for all users.
• The eyeshadow provides a high color payoff that glides on smoothly and doesn’t crease.

Cons:

• Compared to a palette, a single-stick eyeshadow might be considered a bit pricey.
• Julep products can sometimes be hard to find in physical stores and are primarily available online.

4. Mally Beauty Evercolor Shadow Stick Extra Velvet

Mally Beauty Evercolor Shadow Stick Extra Velvet is recognized as one of the Best Eyeshadows for Older Women, particularly for those who appreciate multi-tasking eyeshadows in a range of colors. 

This eyeshadow stick stands out due to its smudge-proof, transfer-proof, and crease-proof attributes.

This product is ideal for those who love variety and versatility. The wide range of colors allows for a multitude of looks, from neutral day makeup to dramatic evening styles. 

This multi-tasking eyeshadow can be used as an eyeliner, eyeshadow, or even for contouring, making it a versatile addition to any makeup kit.

Pros:

• This product comes in a variety of colors, providing options for different looks.
• The eyeshadow stick can serve multiple purposes, including as an eyeliner or contour.
• The formulation is smudge-proof, transfer-proof, and crease-proof, ensuring your makeup stays in place all day.
• The eyeshadow stick glides on easily and can be blended out for a seamless look.

Cons:

• Compared to some other eyeshadows on the market, this product might be considered a bit pricey.
• While there is a wide color range, there might be limited options for those who prefer more muted or neutral tones.

5. Eyeshadow Palette By Physicians Formula

The Eyeshadow Palette By Physicians Formula carves out a niche in the Best Eyeshadows for Older Women category, particularly for those with sensitive skin. 

This eyeshadow palette stands out due to its nourishing and moisturizing ingredients, along with its promise of a smooth application and all-day wear.

The primary feature of this palette is its suitability for sensitive skin. Physicians Formula is known for its dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic makeup, and this palette is no exception. 

It includes a range of ingredients known for their nourishing and moisturizing properties, making it gentle and beneficial for the skin.

Pros:

• This palette is hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin.
• The eyeshadows include moisturizing and nourishing ingredients, promoting skin health.
• The eyeshadows glide on smoothly, allowing for easy blending and building.
• The formulation ensures the eyeshadows stay in place throughout the day.

Cons:

• The palette comes with a fixed set of colors, which may not suit everyone’s taste.
• Compared to some other brands, this eyeshadow palette might be considered a bit pricey.

Related: The Best Beach Chairs for Elderly with Limited Mobility

Types of Eyeshadows

As we navigate the world of makeup and specifically, eyeshadows, for older women, it becomes essential to familiarize ourselves with the different types available on the market. The four primary types of eyeshadows are powder, cream, stick, and liquid.

Powder Eyeshadows

Powder Eyeshadows are the most traditional type, commonly available in both single shades and palettes. They’re versatile and come in various finishes from matte to shimmer. However, they can sometimes emphasize fine lines and wrinkles if not applied correctly due to their dry nature.

Cream Eyeshadows

Cream Eyeshadows provide a more hydrating alternative. They’re easy to blend and often yield a more intense color payoff. The downside is that they can crease easily, especially on older skin, if not set properly.

Stick Eyeshadows

Stick Eyeshadows, also known as eyeshadow pencils, offer convenience and ease of application. They’re perfect for quick makeup application or touch-ups throughout the day. But similar to cream eyeshadows, they may also crease if not set with a powder.

Liquid Eyeshadows

Liquid Eyeshadows have grown in popularity recently due to their long-lasting nature and bold pigmentation. They, however, require a steady hand and quick blending before they set on the skin.

Each type of eyeshadow has its pros and cons when applied to older skin. While powder eyeshadows might settle into fine lines, they are typically easier to blend. 

Cream and stick eyeshadows can be more hydrating, yet pose a risk of creasing. Liquid eyeshadows offer lasting wear but can be challenging to apply.

Considering these factors, it’s generally recommended that older women lean towards cream and stick eyeshadows. They’re typically more forgiving on dry skin, common in older age, and are easy to use. 

Related: 5 Best Bras for Older Women: From Full Coverage to Push-Up

Final Thoughts

As we conclude, we want to emphasize that aging is a natural process to be embraced. Your beauty grows with the years, and makeup is merely a tool to enhance your natural features, not to hide them. 

Your age should never be a barrier to feeling confident and beautiful.

Therefore, we encourage you to take these tips and product suggestions and experiment with them. Find what works best for you, and what makes you feel the most comfortable, confident, and beautiful. 

After all, makeup is a form of self-expression, and there’s no age limit on that. Here’s to celebrating your beauty at every age!

Frequently Asked Questions About Eyeshadows for Older Women