Turning 50 changed a lot of things — including my makeup drawer.
Somewhere between raising kids, becoming a Gigi, and realizing I can’t read a menu without glasses, I also realized my old makeup routine wasn’t doing me any favors.
What worked in my 30s?
Bless it. It tried.
These days I’m not aiming for “full glam influencer.”
I’m aiming for polished, comfortable, and still looking like myself.
My goal is simple:
Comfort, confidence… and maybe a little glow.
Here’s what actually works for me.
Why I Changed My Routine
As we get older, skin changes. Mine decided dryness and fine lines were going to move in and stay awhile.
Heavy foundation? No thank you.
Powder overload? Hard pass.
I realized I didn’t need more makeup — I needed lighter layers and better textures.
Less really is more. (And also faster. Which I appreciate.)
Step 1: Skincare First (Because We’re Adults Now)
If I skip anything, it’s never moisturizer.
- Gentle cream cleanser
- Hydrating moisturizer
- Sunscreen (yes, even when I’m “just running errands”)
Hydrated skin makes everything else look better. And frankly, I’m too old to be fighting my foundation.
Step 2: Light, Natural Base
Gone are the days of full-coverage everything.
Now I use:
- Tinted moisturizer or light foundation
- A little creamy concealer only where I need it
I apply in thin layers with a damp sponge so I still look like skin… just slightly more rested than I actually am.
Step 3: Cream Products = My Best Friend
Powders can sometimes highlight texture, and we are not highlighting texture.
So I reach for:
- Cream blush (soft pink or warm rose)
- Sometimes a touch of cream bronzer
It gives that healthy “I drink water and sleep eight hours” glow — even when I absolutely did not.
Step 4: Soft Definition (Nothing Dramatic)
For eyes and brows:
- Lightly fill brows ( mine were disappering, yikes!)
- Neutral matte shadow
- Brown liner if I’m feeling fancy
- One or two coats of mascara
I’m not trying to compete with my younger self. I’m just defining what’s already there.
Step 5: Easy Lips
Most days it’s:
- Tinted balm
- Sheer berry gloss
If it requires precision or a mirror with magnification, it’s probably not happening.
My Cozy Gigi Rule
If it feels heavy, I take it off.
Makeup should enhance — not sit on top like drywall.
Some days I wear more. Some days I wear less. The point is doing what makes you feel confident when you walk out the door.
And for me, that’s a natural, polished look that takes under 10 minutes… because life is busy, the dogs need to go out, and someone always needs something.
And I still want to look like myself.
Products I am currently using:
Tinted Moistrizer: FarmHouse Fresh Golden Moon Dip
Cream Blush: Jones Road
Everday gloss: Thrive Causemetics Sheer Strengh Hydrating Shine Lip Tint
(Once my page is up, I will link everything there.)