As a key makeup artist at NBCUniversal, Shiedha Williams Burbage has worked with women of (nearly) all ages. “For older women, I always recommend something with a smooth glide, so that it doesn’t pull on the skin too much,” she says. One of her favorite formulas for mature eyes is Rare Beauty’s Perfect Strokes Longwear Gel Eyeliner. Available in three colors—black, brown, and burgundy—the longwear formula is dermatologist-approved for sensitive skin and ophthalmologist-approved for sensitive eyes. With a buttery glide, the twist-up pencil has a built-in sharpener for precise application. “It’s ideal for creating a more intense and detailed line,” Williams Burbage says.
- Shades: 3
- Key Ingredients: Conditioning silicones, synthetic waxes, and film-forming polymers
- Waterproof: Yes
Frequently asked questions
What type of eyeliner is best for older eyes?
“The best eyeliners for older eyes tend to be pencil and gel pencil formulas,” says Stanley Nolan, a cosmetologist and beauty education specialist at Ogle School in Atlanta. “They’re easier to control and require less pulling on the skin than other formulas. They’re also less likely to settle into fine lines.”
What benefits do eyeliners give for mature skin types?
“The best eyeliners for older women add definition to one’s overall look, make lashes appear fuller, and help eyes look more open,” Nolan says. “Tightlining creates the illusion of denser lashes, while a softly blended line helps eyes look awake and refreshed.”
How to apply eyeliner on mature skin
“For mature skin, I recommend applying a thin line close to the lash line or tightlining the upper lid,” Nolan says. “While applying it, gently hold the lid taut to create a smoother surface, and work in short strokes for more control over the pencil.”
Can I use eyeliner with blepharitis?
“Blepharitis is, by definition, an active inflammation of your eyelids, usually triggered by a chronic issue or a bacterial infection,” says Dr. Maria Montero, ophthalmologist and associate director of clinical services at Orbis International.
Many people develop blepharitis simply because they aren’t cleaning their eyelids thoroughly or they’re sleeping in their makeup, she adds. “You might not even have obvious symptoms at first, but eventually you’ll feel strong discomfort and the urge to constantly rub your eyes.”
Once it reaches that point, Montero says, “You have to treat it.” Sometimes, the solution is as simple as gently washing the lids with diluted baby shampoo. But in more severe cases, she typically prescribes a combination of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory steroids.
She doesn’t recommend wearing eyeliner during an active flare-up of the condition. “Eyeliner is a foreign material, and wearing it blocks the pores on your lids,” she explains. “If you are applying that liner to your waterline—that delicate inner rim of your eye—it is even worse, as you cover the gland ducts there.”
When evaluating the best eyeliners for older women, Glamour editors and contributors created eye looks—ranging from demure to dramatic—with some of the most highly rated formulas. We paid close attention to ingredients, texture, and efficacy in making eyes look more youthful. We also sought out eyeliners that can help with common signs of aging, including sagging skin and sensitivity. Finally, we spoke with the industry pros below to pick the five standout formulas that really perform.
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