The updates in makeup and skincare after 55 often come down to how you apply what you already have. One simple technique, used by seasoned makeup artists and facialists, can help your skin look lifted, smoother, and more alive without adding extra steps.
Here, we’ll break down the upward-and-outward method, why it works so well on mature skin, and how you can use it every day with your moisturizers, serums, and oils. Then we’ll touch on more pro tips that support radiance and comfort as skin becomes thinner and more delicate over time.
The upward and outward method for applying skincare
As skin changes with age, it loses firmness, elasticity, and natural bounce. That often leads to a mild downward pull around the cheeks, jawline, and neck. Applying skincare in quick, random motions does nothing to counter that. What helps is a direction that gently works against gravity, giving your face a subtle lifted look and improving the way products absorb.
Start at the base of your neck and move your hands upward toward your jaw. From there, work from the center of your face outward. Sweep from the chin toward the ears, from the sides of the nose toward the cheekbones, and from the lower cheek toward the temples. Around the eyes, keep the pressure light and follow a smooth arc under the eye, starting near the nose and gliding outward.
This approach stimulates circulation, helps products melt in, and makes your face look more rested. Over time, it keeps your skincare from dragging the skin downward and gives your whole routine a more intentional feel.
More pro tricks to boost radiance in mature skin
These tips are all about working with mature skin’s natural texture, not fighting it.
- Warm products with your hands before applying. Thicker creams spread more easily when softened slightly. This prevents tugging and gives you a smoother finish.
- Use gentle pressure. Mature skin marks easily, so think of your hands as guiding the product rather than rubbing it in.
- Let each layer settle. Give your serum a few seconds before adding moisturizer. This helps each product do its job and prevents pilling.
- Don’t skip the jawline and neck. These areas often show aging first. Extending your routine downward keeps everything looking more cohesive.
- Tap, don’t drag, around the eyes. The skin there is thin, so tapping improves absorption without stressing the area.
- Blend toward the hairline. This keeps skincare even and prevents visible edges once you apply makeup.
- Use upward motions with sunscreen too. The same direction helps avoid settling into folds or emphasizing creases.
- Finish with a light press. Placing your palms gently against your cheeks and forehead helps products mesh with your skin.
These techniques allow you to apply skincare as makeup artists do on set: precise, thoughtful, and supportive of natural facial structure. Applying your products upward and outward takes only a few seconds, but it can shift how your face looks and feels throughout the day. With steady practice, your skin appears smoother, brighter, and more lifted.