tvalettejones: I hope that this comment will reach you. I am far from perfect, but I am blessed with an odd combination of genetics that somehow seems to have allowed me to avoid (so far, at least), certain problems associated with aging. I am, however, short and possessed of a bountiful backside, heavy thighs and very short, bowed legs that have taken me some time to learn to deal with in a positive manner. No "bingo wings" thus far, but then, I have a LOT of muscle for an "old" lady. But, here's the thing. You want advice on how to deal with sagging skin, jowls, wrinkles, changing eyes and lips...I admit I have never seen any practical guides to make-up for these issues, only articles insisting that "women of a certain age" must invest in thousands of dollars worth of potions, injections and surgery to counteract them. Cosmetic counters are certainly NOT the place to go for advice, as they are employed to sell product, and as much as possible. I personally believe that you have to go with your own distinct abilities and instincts, plus a healthy dose of honesty. Really assess yourself in the mirror. Do you honestly look all that terrible? Can some of the problems be attributed to dehydration (all TOO common), exhaustion, stress, or unhappiness or depression? So much of our appearance depends on how we feel, our level of health, and what we are putting into our bodies. As for covering "faults" caused by aging with make-up, and adjusting your style to suit changing features, I have definitely found that less is enough. Concealer, base, blush and foundation have to be handled with a light touch on any skin, young or old, or their use becomes blatant and unnatural. The mask-like appearance so favored, it seems, by the cosmetic mavens, is very unattractive, and actually hides absolutely nothing. You must know your own face. If it seems like too much, it definitely is. If you feel uncomfortable, it will show. I know that I stopped using mascara (it made my eyes feel heavy), and liquid eyeliner (my vision is poor and my hands are unsteady, which could have led to some amusing mishaps). When I wear eye makeup, I prefer interesting shades and combinations that enhance my eyes and bring out their rather odd color. I do not heed the advice for "older women" that states one should stick to neutrals, naturals and greys. My eyes would sink into my head. I don't use concealer, not even over dark circles or blemishes, because, no matter how carefully blended, it is always obvious. Applying foundation pulls at the skin and clogs pores. And blush looks like, well, blush. So, try to know yourself, and love what you have. Some of what you mention cannot be corrected by cosmetics, but only by "medical" intervention. Do really want to inject your face with paralytic poison, plump your lips with silicon or collagen, or undergo surgery that NEVER guarantees results to allegedly improve a face that is quite probably quite lovely as it is? Experiment at home with new techniques, colors and products... go to the internet and look for websites that might advise you on how to get inexpensive samples and exercise your creativity until YOU are content. I hope this helps.
And, Josie dear, I don't actually speak for myself, or to "hear" my own voice. It has been a great pleasure to me to see how many women seem to have enjoyed what I've written, and if I've managed to empower or amuse just one individual, I am delighted. Surprised, too, as I have never considered myself as someone particularly enlightened or special. You say "fifty" as if it was something loathsome and vulgar, but someday, unless you sadly die, you will arrive there as well. I don't know how old you are, but you will learn, I hope, not to label and attempt to insult people you do not agree with or have failed to understand. If not, by the time you reach my age, you will be a bitter, ignorant, unhappy woman, left wondering how you got where you are and having no idea how to cope with it. In the meantime, I will remain most joyous and happy with life.
