The best beauty products for mature & menopausal skin – according to make-up artists
Rachael Martin
Beauty & skincare
Reading time: 5 minutes
Has the menopause affected your glow? Consider this your go-to guide to the best make-up & skincare products around that are perfect for you
It’s no secret that as we reach the menopause, our skin might not feel quite the same. Dryness, sensitivity and potentially interrupted sleep (thanks night sweats) all mean our skin can be less glowy than it used to be. The good news? We don’t need to settle for it. Ageing and, more specifically, the menopause can be the perfect time to experiment and try new things so that you can become a better, more confident version of yourself.
With this in mind, we nabbed some time with three beauty experts who've all the know-how to dealing with menopausal skin, whether it’s extra hydration you’re after or simply something that’s going to make you feel fab (even while going through a hot flush).
Keep reading for the products you need to know about for mature skin, according to those in the know…
Hannah Hodgkiss
Hannah is a make-up artist and beauty therapist who, at 40, is currently going through the menopause. You can read more about her inspiring story on women owning their scars. As a result of this, Hannah’s really honed her understanding of the needs of menopausal and perimenopausal skin.
"In my experience, menopausal skin can feel more sensitive," says Hannah. "When it comes to prepping skin for make-up application, I recommend cooling, soothing products that aid calmnessand relaxation. I also swear by spending a little extra time at the prepping stage. Massaging is invaluable when it comes to helping boost a tired complexion. By taking just five minutes to work a cream into your skin, you can look plumper and feel more put-together and collected. It’s all about setting aside some dedicated 'you' time."
Her top beauty products for mature, menopausal skin are:
Botanics Organic Hydrating Day Cream
• Size: 50ml
• Fast-absorbing
"I’ll use this softening day cream on clients and myself – it’s a favourite part of my make-up routine. It leaves a lovely glow to the skin, thanks to the infusion of rosehip extract, it smells divine and my skin feels instantly nourished. My top tip? Wear mixed in with your foundation to help create a bright and glowing base."
Benefit High Beam Satiny Pink Complexion Highlighter
• Size: 6ml
• Long-lasting
"Another issue with menopausal skin can be dullness," says Hannah. "Adding radiance is high on my priority list. I like to apply a small amount of this pearlescent highlighter across cheekbones, brow bones and the cupid’s bow. Less is more and be sure to blend for a smudge-free finish."
"Another issue with menopausal skin can be dullness," says Hannah. "Adding radiance is high on my priority list. I like to apply a small amount of this pearlescent highlighter across cheekbones, brow bones and the cupid’s bow. Less is more and be sure to blend for a smudge-free finish."
Botanics Rose Quartz Gua Sha
• Always sterilise tools between treatments
"I cannot stress how fabulous rose quartz stones are for massaging the contours of the face – it’s deeply relaxing and can help tone, too. An industry secret is that they are even better when popped in the fridge. The smooth and cooling surface is an extra treat if you’re experiencing a hot flush."
Kay Montano
"As a woman going through the menopause myself, I have a lot of thoughts," says Kay Montano, a London-based make-up artist who counts Zoë Kravitz and Jennifer Lawrence among her clients. "There’s so much misconception around the menopause that you’ll not feel good or are no longer sexy. That’s absolutely not the case. We can get on with it and look and feel amazing in the process."
And when it comes to skincare and make-up?
"The main thing for me is getting enough sleep and keeping my skin hydrated," says Kay. "With this in mind, the products I recommend either boost hydration levels or just make you look gorgeous, glowing and wide awake. These are the products that'll make you feel good."
Her top beauty products for mature, menopausal skin are:
Liz Earle Superskin Moisturiser Unfragranced for Sensitive Skin
• Size: 50ml
• Fragrance free
"I love Liz Earle. I feel like she really celebrates women in midlife and is a trailblazer. This is my go-to purchase for both myself and clients alike. It’s without petroleum and contains pomegranate flower, cranberry and rosehip seed oils to help nourish dry skin – I’m never without it in my kit."
RapidLash Eyelash Enhancing Serum
• Size: 3ml
• Avoid direct contact with the eye
"As we age, our lashes can become thinner. I absolutely swear by RapidLash for dramatically fuller-looking lashes. People ask me all the time if I’m wearing falsies and I’m not – it’s all down to this little tube, which also makes me look much more awake."
Chanel Le Recourbe Cils De Chanel Eyelash Curler
• Comes with two protective silicone pad replacements
"For curly, voluminous lashes, invest in this curler. It adapts to all eye shapes and optimises the natural curl without damaging. It’s amazing for adding brightness to the eye area and can act as a real boost of confidence. Add mascara and you’re good to go."
Ruby Hammer
"When it comes to menopausal skin, you might be dealing with dryness, pigmentation and even acne flare-ups," says 60-year-old (yes, really) make-up artist, Ruby Hammer MBE. "With this in mind, I would always suggest products that contain nourishing ingredients that comfort while still targeting your skin concerns. Anything that contains niacinamide, retinol and peptides can help renew and plump dull complexions. A particular favourite ingredient of mine is hyaluronic acid, which absorbs into the skin beautifully. Look out for it in make-up formulas."
Her top beauty products for mature, menopausal skin are:
Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer
• Size: 6.2g
• Contains vitamins A, C, and E
This infuses skincare with make-up, so it’s no wonder this concealer is Ruby’s favourite. "I’ll reach for this if I need to conceal pigmentation," she says. "I work by strategically camouflaging using a fine or tapered brush to dot on concealer where needed. This provides great coverage and is incredibly long lasting."
Dior Hydra Life Fresh Reviver Sorbet Water Mist
• Size: 100ml
• Apply this mist daily, or as required, morning and night
This refreshing, glow-boosting mist is well worth the investment thanks to the infusion of vitamin C. "It’s ideal for keeping cool if you’re feeling hot and bothered," says Ruby. "Pop in the fridge and it’ll provide a beautiful hit of cool in the midst of a hot flush. Plus, it’s amazing for setting your make-up."
Kiehl's Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum
• Size: 50ml
• Suitable for all skin types
One of Ruby’s favourites for soothing menopausal skin, this retinol serum also contains peptides and ceramides. Simply apply after cleansing and follow with a moisturiser nightly. Use an SPF for optimal protection during the day.
Menopause shouldn’t equate to disappointing skincare or make-up. Here’s to reaching for products that soothe, calm and, ultimately, spark joy and excitement.
