A Mature Makeup Routine for Ages 25-35

The beauty of makeup is that there are no rules. Whether you prefer to go au naturel or full-on glam, makeup is a personal choice that ultimately reflects your style. Above all, makeup is optional. But, if a pop of color on your eyelids or a swipe of lipstick makes you happy, why not have a little fun?

This month at BWB, we’re focusing on the topic of age when it comes to beauty. As a result, I’ve been thinking about my relationship with makeup over the years. If you’re between the ages of 25-35 like myself, you’ve probably had your fair share of trial and error when it comes to cosmetics. This is the prime time for self-discovery in life, and makeup, too. If you’re looking for more products to add to your list to try, read on for a few picks that I’m loving for this day and age.

Go for a Quality Foundation

Mineral Air Complexion + Blush Kit

How you treat your skin in your 20s and early 30s can greatly impact how it looks in the future. If you use foundation, choose a light formula like this one from Mineral Air to nourish your skin while giving it coverage. What’s unique about the Complexion and Blush Kit is that it works with a device, so you can mist on the product without touching your face. The first time I used it, I was surprised by how easy the process was — just open the tab and add 5-10 drops of foundation (which comes in 11 shades). Then, start misting 2-3 inches away from your face in a circular motion.

For a rosy glow, follow with blush (which is applied the same way). The foundation is made with a hyaluronic acid serum base to hydrate your skin, while the titanium and zinc mineral base act as a natural sun protective barrier. Plus, it’s packed with antioxidants from pomegranate and algae extracts as well as Vitamin E.

Hydrate With a Smart Skin Serum

Mineral Air Renewal Serum Skincare System

To go the extra mile in keeping your skin hydrated, use Mineral Air’s Renewal Serum Skincare before applying foundation. It also mists on with a device and uses a micronizing technology to deliver a no-waste, 30-second dose of clean, good-for-you ingredients. I like to think of this serum as an invisible face shield. Not only does it feel soothing to apply (cue the zen moment), but it also helps combat fine lines and wrinkles, while hydrating, brightening, balancing, and plumping your skin. Recharge it, refill it, and repeat the process for healthier skin in no time.

Try an Illuminating Concealer

BECCA Cosmetics Under Eye Brightening Corrector

They say eyes are the windows to your soul, so keep yours looking bright with the help of an illuminating concealer. Life between the ages of 25-35 is typically the time to work hard, go out, explore—and sometimes, that means staying out late. If I don’t get enough sleep, my under eye area usually shows it with tired-looking dark circles. Recently, I have been using BECCA Cosmetic’s Under Eye Brightening Corrector, which deflects light and color corrects. It comes in two shades—a light to medium pearlized peachy-pink and a medium to deep pearlized apricot. When it comes to concealers, it’s hard to find the right one to do the job, but this product makes it easy and nourishes your skin with Vitamin E.

A Multi-Tasking Face Oil Can Work Wonders

RéVive Glow Elixir

To maintain looking healthy and radiant, add a face oil to your routine now and your skin will thank you in your late 30s and beyond. RéVive’s Glow Elixir Hydrating Radiance Oil is a product that multi-tasks. While boosting hydration, it also works as a highlighter to give you a soft, pearlescent glow. Apply it over your moisturizer or foundation, as well as on your cheekbones, bridge of nose, brow bone, and chin for a sun-kissed look that’s still subtle. Essentially, it’s the quickest way I know how to look awake and energized.

Choose a Lash-Amplifying Mascara

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes! Mascara

Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes had a 45,000-deep waitlist when it launched in August 2020, and for good reason. This mascara works. The combination of the pro-precision paddle brush applicator (which comes in an aesthetically-pleasing diamond shape) boosts the volume of your lashes, while stretching and separating each one to appear longer and clump-free. The formula is filled with a lash-lifting polymer, carnauba wax to add texture, and keratin to condition individual hair fibers. You might just say “wow” after applying it on one eye and comparing it with the other.

An Essential Eyeshadow Palette Is Key

RÓEN 11:11 Eye Shadow Palette

This eyeshadow palette is as dreamy as the name sounds. If you’re wishing for an easier makeup routine, it’s an essential that you can’t go wrong with, no matter your age. Each of the four colors are staples that can be used for every day or dressy occasions, and it only takes a few seconds to apply. Just swirl the color on your fingertip in a circular motion and spread over your eyelids. Blend the edges with an eyeshadow brush, and voilà: brighter-looking eyes.

Experiment with Eyeliner

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner

Upon aging, thick eyeliner can appear heavier on the eyes. One benefit of being between the ages of 25-35 is that collagen is at its prime, making it an ideal time to try out bolder makeup if so you desire. This classic eyeliner from Stila lets you play around with different looks with the marker-like tip that makes application a cinch. Draw on a cat-eye or, even bolder, a double-winged eyeliner for a dramatic effect. It’s waterproof and lasts all day so you can wear it day-to-night without any touch-ups needed.

Can’t Go Wrong With a Bright Lipstick

ILIA Color Block High Impact Lipstick in Knockout

It’s no secret that the color of a lipstick bullet can have the power to change up your entire look. A magenta with a cool undertone like this one from clean beauty brand ILIA can make your complexion look brighter and instantly bring out that youthful rosy glow. In just one swipe, you’ll get long-lasting full coverage with a smooth texture. Lipstick shades in the pink color family can also make for convenient cream blushes. A few times while traveling in the past, I had forgotten to bring my full makeup bag only to discover that this common makeup trick works: just dab a little bit of lipstick on your cheeks and blend with your fingers to create an illusion of dewier, brighter skin.

Accentuate Your Brows with a Definer

M·A·C’s Eyebrows Styler in Medium Brown

If you’ve plucked one too many brow hairs as a teenager, you may value the genius of a good brow pencil. Of course, every face shape is different and maybe you can pull off the thin brow look of the ‘90s. But, if you’re looking for a fuller set or to fill in sparse spots, try a definer like M·A·C’s Eye Brows Styler. It’s water-resistant, comes in eight shades, and easily adds shape, color, and density to your brows. Twist the definer up to apply fine, hair-like strokes, and use the spoolie on the opposite end to even it out for a more natural look.