May 2, 2025

Mastering the Art of Concealer Application Over 40

If you’ve ever applied concealer hoping to look more refreshed, only to find it settling into fine lines, you are not alone! As we embrace our fabulousness over 40, our makeup routine needs to evolve. Discover how to choose the right concealer formula, hydrate your skin, and apply strategically for a radiant look. With pro tips inspired by top makeup artists and my own journey, you can master the art of concealer application. Say goodbye to frustrating makeup mishaps and hello to bright, smooth under eyes that make you feel like the Queen you are!

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If you’ve ever applied concealer hoping to look more refreshed, only to find it settling into fine lines or making you look even more tired, you are not alone Queen!

As we get wiser and more fabulous, our skin changes, and our makeup routine needs to evolve with it. Concealer for mature skin isn’t about heavy coverage. It’s about brightening, lifting, and working with our skin, not against it. Today, I’m sharing some of my favorite pro tips, inspired by makeup artists like Vincent Ford, Glam Girl Gabi, Painted by Spencer, and Marlena Stell, plus a few lessons I’ve learned through my own viral journey.

How I Learned (the Hard Way) About Concealer for Aging Eyes

Back in 2021, I shared a simple concealer technique on TikTok, and it went viral! To date, that video has over 400,000 views!! It was thrilling, but as time passed and my skin continued to change, I realized I needed to adapt my technique even further. Today, I’m updating my approach with new tips that work even better for where I am now, and where you are too.

Step 1: Choose the Right Concealer Formula

The best concealer for women over 40 is lightweight, hydrating, and buildable.
Celebrity makeup artist Vincent Ford recommends avoiding thick, drying formulas that can emphasize texture.

Two favorites I personally recommend:

Skip heavy matte concealers like Tarte Shape Tape, which tend to settle into fine lines.

Step 2: Hydrate Before You Conceal

Concealer will only look as good as the skin underneath it.
Before you apply anything, prep your under-eye area with a lightweight eye cream.
Tap it in gently using your ring finger, no tugging!
Painted by Spencer swears by this prep step to prevent dryness and ensure a smoother application.

Step 3: Color Correct Before Concealing

Instead of layering on tons of concealer, use a color corrector first to neutralize discoloration.

Think of color correcting as a sheer filter that gives your concealer less work to do.

Step 4: Apply Concealer Strategically (Not Everywhere)

Instead of the old-school giant triangle method, apply concealer only where you need it:

  • Inner corner (where darkness tends to be most prominent)

  • Outer corner (to lift the eye)

  • Lightly blend toward the center.

Glam Girl Gabi’s tip: Use a damp sponge, fluffy brush, or your fingertip to tap it in.
Less is more for mature skin!

Step 5: Troubleshooting Common Concealer Problems

Even with the best prep, sometimes concealer can misbehave. Here’s how to fix it:

  • Creasing?
    Use a clean micro-blading cotton swab to gently pick up excess product around crow’s feet, then tap with your fingertip to smooth.

  • Dryness?
    Press a tiny bit of lightweight moisturizer over the area — no need to add more concealer.

  • Too Heavy?
    Mist your face lightly with a setting spray, then press it in with a damp sponge to revive the look.

Step 6: Setting Without Drying Out

If you want to set your under eyes, choose a whisper-light touch with powder.
My favorites are Laura Mercier Ultra Blur Powder and Pat McGrath’s Blurring Under Eye Powder  both finely milled and ideal for mature skin.
Use a small brush and press, don’t sweep.

🎥 Prefer to Watch and Learn?

If you’re more of a visual learner, I’ve got you covered! Head over to my YouTube channel to watch the full step-by-step tutorial where I walk you through each tip to brighten and smooth the under-eye area specifically for women over 40.

Ready to Master Your Makeup Routine?

Concealer for mature skin doesn’t have to be frustrating. With the right products, prep, and techniques, you can achieve bright, smooth under eyes that make you look and feel radiant at any age.

If you’re ready for even more personalized guidance, I offer one-on-one makeup lessons designed specifically for women over 40.
Click here to book your session today!

Let’s help you feel like the Queen you are, because your beauty deserves to shine.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. I only share products I personally use, love, or have tested on clients. Thank you for supporting Beauty with AS and helping me continue to create helpful content for women over 40. 💗

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