— Style —

SEVEN DON’TS WHEN BUYING MAKEUP OVER 50

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For the last three weeks, I’ve been on a relentless hunt for a foundation that matches my skin tone and a concealer that doesn’t make me look like I have white circles under my eyes, but so far, no luck. This morning I applied my latest purchase… Could you hear my screams from where you are? I’m frustrated because I’m partly to blame for what’s become a long, futile makeup odyssey. 

I shouldn’t be surprised because I’ve violated all of my longstanding rules of thumb about buying makeup.

It all started when Clarins reformulated my longtime foundation and deleted my shade. Their new shade began a domino effect because it no longer matched my Chanel concealer. 

After trying lots of concealers, the saleswoman sent me home with one from Bobbie Brown that made the shadows under my eyes a deep purple. She promised it was the store lighting, and like an idiot, I believed her. After I got home and looked at my face in the daylight, I realized neither product was even close to my skin tone.

After I returned the Clarins, I went to another store. The makeup artist at Chanel was a lovely woman, but when she enlisted the help of a makeup artist, I should have bolted, immediately. Her lips were the size of Tulsa, and her eyebrows looked like they’d been applied with an asphalt roller, but no… I continued to sit there as she applied products and colors that didn’t work for me. And in the end, I bought the foundation she suggested. 

Who is this Brenda? What happened to the old Brenda’s commonsense when buying makeup?

The next day I returned the products and then stopped at the Bobbie Brown counter. My longtime makeup consultant was on a lunch break, but instead of waiting, I succumbed to the young consultant behind the counter.

“Why would Chanel sell you these products? They’re all wrong for you.” Finally, I thought. Someone who agrees with me, but alas, I walked away with others that were wrong for me as well.

I’ll spare you the half a dozen makeup videos I’ve watched and the bag of Dior products that don’t work on me either.

Yesterday I went to Ulta, but since this is where I started this blog post, instead of getting upset, again, let’s review what I already knew, but chose to ignore. 

THE SEVEN DON’TS WHEN BUYING MAKEUP OVER 50

  • Don’t ask the advice of a makeup artist if you don’t like the way they apply their own makeup, or if they’re too young to understand over 50 skin.
  • Don’t continue to seek the advice of someone who doesn’t listen to you when you say, “I can’t wear anything with blue undertones,” and then applies a blue/red lipstick and says, “It looks beautiful on you.” 
  • Don’t buy sparkly blush unless you want the canyons at the bottom of your lines and wrinkles to look like mirrored disco balls.
  • Don’t use an iridescent or sparkly highlighter on top of your cheekbones or under your browbone. It makes you look like your trendy granddaughter. Like you’re trying too hard to look younger.
  • Don’t buy makeup without stepping outside to look at your whole face in the daylight. That doesn’t mean standing near a window, inside the store.
  • Keep the boxes and the sales receipt and don’t hesitate to return anything that doesn’t work for you.
  • And lastly, there was a time in my life when I was friends with half the drag queens in town. For years we were all part of one of San Antonio’s most popular Fiesta events. We adored one another, but did I go to them for makeup advice? No. So why did I let a drag queen sell me foundation and concealer? I looked like a Japanese Kabuki master, and when I said my face was as white as a longneck goose, he pulled out a dark brown contour powder and said, “Well honey, we’ll just warm it up!” 

Me and Sandy, 2015. Photograph by Jennifer Denton. Sandy had just done my makeup. I can’t find the photo taken before Covid, and I’d give anything to have one of the first time she did my makeup.

I’m frustrated and a heartbeat away from calling makeup artist, Sandy Linter, in New York City, to schedule an appointment. She’s been advising me since I was 21, and now, Sandy is the gold standard for makeup on women over 50. Do you have her bestselling book, Makeup Wakeup? Obviously, I need to read it again. Last night, I even went online to check for cheap flights to New York City. There are no cheap flights to New York City that leave after dawn!

How could I have forgotten everything I’ve learned about makeup over the years? Could this be the first signs of dementia?

Love, Brenda

74 Comments

  • Betty October 1, 2022 at 7:46 am

    Brenda, You are too funny! Your blogs are always a great way to start my day. Would you believe I’m from Tulsa? LOL!

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 1:33 pm

      Thank you Betty! You’re sweet. I love having you here. xoxox, Brenda

  • Patricia October 1, 2022 at 8:29 am

    I know how you feel. My skin is different now and the makeup I’ve used for a while doesn’t look the same. The problem with drugstore brands is you can’ try them before you buy them. I’ve just quit wearing makeup for most occasions. Sorry you’re having this problem as well.

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 1:38 pm

      You’re having the same problems? Oh dear, Patricia! I know my skin texture has changed, but never in a million years did I think I’d have this much trouble finding products that work for me. Colors and textures have always been easy choices. Don’t give up! Makeup’s supposed to make us feel better. Let’s just go back to the basics: good moisturizer and an eye cream, find a foundation that looks good in the daylight, and hopefully a concealer if you wear one. Here’s wishing us luck! xoxox, Brenda

  • Darlene October 1, 2022 at 8:44 am

    I’ve never worn makeup other than some lip balm. It’s just too complicated and if I start now, everyone would wonder why and I don’t want that kind of attention.

    • Fiona October 1, 2022 at 12:24 pm

      Longtime reader, first time commenter. I’ve subscribed to other blogs but yours is the only one that continues to keep me interested. Your subjects are always different and I like you as a person. You have a big heart and know how to laugh at yourself. Qualities we can never get enough of these days. Bless you Brenda!

      • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 1:43 pm

        Thank you, Fiona! I’m touched by your sweet words. Thank you for reading and letting me know. Blessings to you as well, Brenda

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 1:40 pm

      Hi Darlene, I understand, but hopefully, you’re wearing a moisturizer with sunscreen to protect you from skin cancer. xoxox, Brenda

  • Jocie October 1, 2022 at 8:47 am

    “There isn’t a cheap flight after dawn!” Laughing so hard I couldn’t have heard your screams. You’re our Erma Bombeck, Brenda!

    • 1010ParkPace October 1, 2022 at 1:44 pm

      LOL! Thank you, Jocie. I’m just stating things the way they are. xoxox, Brenda

  • Gray October 1, 2022 at 9:06 am

    I love this post! I haven’t had the same problems because I CAN’T FIND A MAKEUP ARTIST TO HELP ME nor anywhere to try products. If Sephora or Ulta don’t have them, I must order them online.
    I am in Richmond VA, and our Nordstrom closed during Covid and our Saks is practically empty. I went in to try some Chanel lipsticks and they had 4 of the 26 shades and the saleslady was extremely snooty.
    I have also been told that I have cool tones AND that I have warm tones, so I try to buy neutral stuff?! Who knows what my skin tones are?
    I guess I’m just gonna have to read Sandy’s book!!!

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 1:53 pm

      Hi Gray, Cool tones, warm tones… How can we be sure? It’s frustrating. A girlfriend suggested I “have my colors done” by a woman here in town who helps you understand what colors work with our hair and skin tones. I’ve never done that, so perhaps. We both have some good stores that are available to us, but it would be nice to have the expert guidance of a makeup artist. When I was having trouble getting the right shade for my thin eyebrows, I went to Sephora on two different occasions and talked to two different makeup artists who had drastically different opinions. We have to go with our gut on some of this, but if a product says “neutral” on it, that might be the way to go. What if you have them put different samples in a small container, label them, and try them at home in the daylight? That’s what I’ll be doing from here on out. And yes, Sandy’s book gives great suggestions. Love seeing you here! Brenda

  • Mimi October 1, 2022 at 9:07 am

    I’d like to make an appointment with Sandy Linter. How do I contact her?

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 1:56 pm

      Hi Mimi, You can make an appointment by calling Rita Hazan Salon in NYC and ask them to schedule you for “a lesson” with Sandy Linter. Their phone number is (212) 586-4343. The address is 720 Fifth Ave, 11th Floor, NYC. Let me know if you see her, and tell her I said hello! xoxox, Brenda

  • Sally October 1, 2022 at 9:39 am

    You’re hilarious! I laughed out loud reading about the Tulsa sized lips! I live in far SW Texas and my options for makeup are Family Dollar, Dollar General, some very old makeup at a very tiny, old pharmacy or on line. I squeeze in a visit to any thing I can find when traveling to larger cities. Next week San Angelo!

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 2:02 pm

      Hi Sally, I know what you mean about southwest Texas. You don’t have a lot of options. Fingers crossed you find what you need in San Angelo. I looked online and they have a Dillard’s. If that doesn’t work, stop in San Antonio on your way home. La Cantera Mall, off IH-10, before you cross Loop 1604. It’s a few blocks from IH-10. They have a Nordstrom’s, Saks, and Neiman’s. Not sure if the Dillard’s is still there. Good luck and remember my rules of thumb!… Here’s hoping I do. xoxox, Brenda

  • Shaoron October 1, 2022 at 10:07 am

    I know your pain…too moist, too dry, setttling. Too shiny too Mayte and on and on! Never before! Argh! Pain in the posterior!

    • Marita October 1, 2022 at 10:47 am

      Been there, done all of that, and wondered later how I could have allowed my wiser, more experienced self to be so hijacked. Love that you’ve maintained a snarky sense of humor about it all. I choose to avoid pricey brands, with Jane Iredale, Clinique, and occasionally Estée Lauder at the top of my spend range and drugstore brands like Revlon and L’Oréal at the bottom. While you can’t sample drugstore makeup, you CAN return it—at least to CVS and Rite Aid—opened or not, with a receipt. (Best to check your store before buying.) For under eyes, I’ve had good luck with Revlon’s Photoready Concealer. My go-to foundation is Jane Iredale’s PurePressed Base Mineral foundation. Both come in a variety of shades. Good luck out there!

      • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 2:10 pm

        Marita, You, too? I used to use everything Clinique, but as my skin got older, I needed a skin care regimen suited to over 50 skin. I still use their makeup remover in the purple bottle. It’s the best. Fast and not greasy. At the moment I’m making a combination of two Bare Minerals concealers work, and Bare Minerals is reasonably priced. I don’t purposefully use the more expensive brands, but over the years, because of how they’re pigmented and the skincare benefits, they’ve gradually risen to the top of my list. Thank you! Brenda

        • Marita October 1, 2022 at 4:42 pm

          I also like the Clinique eye makeup remover in the purple bottle. Got it as a sample and have stuck with it. Agree that Clinique is geared toward younger skin. Under eye fave treatment fave is Olay Retinol24.

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 2:04 pm

      Hi Shaoron, I’m sorry you’re experiencing this as well, but at least we know we’re not alone! And yes, it’s a pain in the backside, which is why I lost it the other morning! Grrrr…. Here’s hoping we figure this out, Brenda

  • Jane October 1, 2022 at 10:18 am

    I do a pretty good job with my makeup but I could definitely use some lessons. Problem is all the makeup artists at the department stores here are way to flamboyant for me. They’re young and I look at the way they do their makeup and I don’t want to ask their advice.

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 2:15 pm

      Jane, Well said! Not long ago I visited the Ulta store near me, and all the salespeople–men and women–were wearing too much contour powder/cream. It was like they’d taken a lesson from Kim Kardashian, except they’d forgotten the “blending” step. Honest to goodness, they looked like clowns! And no, I’m not taking makeup advice from them! It would be nice if Sandy Linter would do another national tour where you can schedule a makeup lesson with her. Thanks for the comment, Brenda

  • Serena October 1, 2022 at 10:29 am

    I’m going through the same thing! How do you manage to make it sound so funny! So what are you going to do? Inspire me Brenda like you do about everything else. I can’t afford to fly to New York.

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 2:30 pm

      I hear you, Serena. If we can’t find the humor in a situation, then all is truly lost. We can’t let ourselves become down because then we lose hope, and hope is everything! The hope of what a new day will bring is why we get up in the morning. Hope helps us see past the doom and gloom and hang on for another day, because we know nothing stays the same. Nothing. That’s the nature of life. Say to yourself, “Yes, I can’t find a makeup that looks good on me, but I have a roof over my head, a car to drive, the sun is shining, and with this makeup, I could always join the circus. (That’s supposed to be funny.) Things could be a lot worse. Actually, we’re lucky if that’s the biggest problem we have right now, but yes, it is a real problem. The next step for me is I’m going to remember my rules, and I’ve taken notes from the YouTube makeup videos I’ve watched. Tomorrow I’ll go back to the store and ask the salesperson to put samples of those products in small jars and label them, and I’ll try them at home. No more putting it on under store lighting and then buying it, only to discover when I get home that it’s all wrong for me. We’re smart women! We can figure this out. xoxox, Brenda

  • Cassandra Moore October 1, 2022 at 10:44 am

    I am reading this through a different prism and did not find the reference to the size of a woman’s lips funny. The first thing I thought was, “Was the salesperson a black woman?”

    • Arlo October 1, 2022 at 11:24 am

      Cassandra, I didn’t interpret it that way. Brenda would never do that. I read it that the makeup artist had too much filler in her lips.

      • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 2:50 pm

        I appreciate you, Arlo! Thank you. xoxox, Brenda

    • Barbara October 1, 2022 at 11:30 am

      Cassandra, I’m a long time reader of Brenda’s Blogs and she doesn’t have a discriminatory bone in her body. With that line I’m sure she was just trying to be funny which is one of the things I like about her blogs. She always sees the humor in a situation. Xo, Barb

      • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 2:51 pm

        You’re the best, Barb! Thank you! xoxox, Brenda

    • Beckye October 1, 2022 at 12:00 pm

      Another long time reader. Nope. Brenda wouldn’t even insinuate anything like that, and I don’t think those who follow her regularly would think that. I read it that they have had too much filler injected. Welcome to the Brenda’s Blog group!

      • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 2:52 pm

        Awe, you’re sweet, Beckye! The Brenda’s Blog Group! Love it, and you! Brenda

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 2:42 pm

      Hi Cassandra, I’m going to guess you’re a new reader. If you are, welcome! I’m happy to hear from you. I frequently use hyperbole when I write because it can be funny, but I never mean it to make fun of a particular person or group unless it’s me. My goal is to lift women up, offer suggestions and encouragement and help them see the humor in certain situations. The makeup artist I was referring to had way too much filler in her lips. I hope to see you here, again, Brenda

  • Colleen October 1, 2022 at 11:09 am

    It’s frustrating when a product or color you love is discontinued. When I was a teenager I wore Revlon’s Cherries In The Snow lipstick color. Revlon was considered high-end back then and the best department stores sold it. More than 60 years later Revlon still sells that blue red shade and I still love and wear it. It cost less than $10.00!

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 2:49 pm

      Hi Colleen, Hope you’re having a great day! I remember Cherries in the Snow as well. What a great name! I used to think I wanted to be one of those people who named lipstick, nail polish, and paint colors. Revlon was THE best, and they got lots of mileage from their creative ads for that lipstick. So fun to know it’s still on the market, and you still wear it! Talk about brand loyalty! xoxox, Brenda

  • Carrie October 1, 2022 at 11:17 am

    Hi Brenda, I’m 42 and I agree with your experiences and all of the other women who left comments. I don’t identify with many of the women my age. I’m not a social media type and don’t want their cookie cutter look. No big eyebrows and tons of makeup. The men I know don’t like that look either. Stay the path. You’ve always looked beautiful and I know you’ll find something that works for you.

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 2:58 pm

      Thank you, Carrie. You remind me of when I was in my early 40s. We didn’t have social media, but most of the women on TV and in magazines were great role models. Nothing too extreme. They were women I wanted to emulate. If you’re having these feelings at 42, what must little girls and teenagers feel about themselves and the pressure to look perfect? It’s not until we’re older that we realize there is no such thing as perfect. It’s the imperfections that make us stand out. Hopefully we can embrace them and not strive to look like someone else. Best, Brenda

      • Katherine October 2, 2022 at 7:13 am

        Hi Brenda,
        What a beautiful picture of you taken with Sandy the make up artist. She did an outstanding job.
        It’s so disappointing when the brand you have been purchasing decides to discontinue that product that you love and have grown to depend on or change the formula. I feel for you and hear your frustration.
        Have you contacted the company directly to see if they have some product hiding out? You are a smart lady I’m sure you have contacted every one on the internet. There is a company out there that sells discontinued cosmetics. I wonder if you can find your foundation through them. It’s a long shot.
        I love love love your sense of humor. You are a very patient person to go through all this cosmetic shopping drama. Give yourself a big hug. Need to have a tee shirt made for you that says. “I survived the cosmetic counter.”
        xox

        • 1010ParkPlace October 2, 2022 at 5:30 pm

          Katherine, what a wonderful comment. Thoughtful and sweet and so love your idea for the t-shirt. LOL! Thank you! I have spoken with two makeup experts and think I’ll steer clear of discontinued and old products. The ingredients can change, become rancid and cause skin problems. I will keeping looking. There’s something out there that will work for me. I’ll find it. xoxox, Brenda

  • Lisa October 1, 2022 at 11:30 am

    I feel your pain. My latest find is La Mer foundation, ridiculously expensive but just might be the Holy Grail. Lasts a long time, because you just use one pump. It took a couple of attempts to get the right shade, but I’m satisfied for now. Neiman, Saks and Sephora carry it. Of course, with my 65 year old skin, this could all change next week!

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 3:01 pm

      Hi Lisa, I’m familiar with La Mer’s famous moisturizer, but until now, I didn’t know they made makeup as well. You look at the price the way I do: cost per wear. Sometimes it can still be outrageous, but if we can afford it, and it works for us, why not? xoxox, Brenda

      • La Contessa October 1, 2022 at 3:52 pm

        Owned by Estée Lauder I just read the other day!Estee started Clinique too as their own competitor!They own A LOT of the cosmetic brands now!!

  • Terry October 1, 2022 at 11:46 am

    I actually have done online consultations with Chanel directly. They were great, and other than my inability to buy only what I need, I thought the sessions and the service was wonderful. They ship everything to you, and you can return. Who would have thought that a facetime session would work.

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 3:04 pm

      Facetime sessions with Chanel? Really? I didn’t know that, Terry. I’m thrilled to hear it worked for you, but after all my in-person struggles, I’ll have to think about that. Thanks for telling me, Brenda

  • Suzy October 1, 2022 at 12:01 pm

    Cherries in the Snow! When I was a teenager my mother wore that color. Those were the days when Twiggy was on all the magazine covers. I liked frosted pale pink lipsticks and used Dippity Do to set my hair. Don’t remember the color but the brand was Yardley.

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 3:07 pm

      Hi Suzy! Frosted lipsticks and Dippity Do!!! Oh, my stars! They take me back. The only problem with Dippity Do was it flaked in your hair and looked like you had dandruff. And Twiggy and Yardley… Yes! All the fresh-faced English girls were so beautiful…. They’re still so beautiful. Thanks for the memories, Brenda

  • Connie October 1, 2022 at 12:40 pm

    I am dying laughing at this hilarious post! Girl, you can write! Disco balls? The size of Tulsa? OMGOODNESS! I am so tired of young chicas at Nordstroms selling me makeup for what must be a gothic look!

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 3:13 pm

      Hi Connie, I’m happy you got a chuckle out of it, but it’s true. Do we really want our wrinkles to sparkle? The people at the makeup counters–doesn’t matter where–are reflections of their age and their beauty standards. Unfortunately, most women of a certain age don’t have the same perspectives they do. It’s not a slam on any ethnic or cultural group, but it’s a very real problem for those of us who don’t want to look that way. Thanks for the comment and your support! xoxox, Brenda

  • Ann October 1, 2022 at 12:42 pm

    I wore Lancome foundation years ago and still remember the number, 2 N for neutral. When that quit working for me as my skin and their formulation changed, I tried other brands that use the same numbering system as a place to start my search. I swipe the sample color down the side of my face, chin and neck. If it looks good in all 3, it’s probably a winner. These days I start with a primer before foundation. The Ordinary brand is a good everyday option.

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 3:16 pm

      Thanks, Ann for telling me about a brand I don’t know. Ordinary. I use the same method of swiping the color, but the problem has been finding a matching concealer that doesn’t settle in the wrinkles under my eye, dry out and make me look like my grandmother, or is obviously the wrong color. I’ve never had this much trouble finding foundation and concealer that work together. So frustrating! Brenda

  • Beckye October 1, 2022 at 12:43 pm

    This post is an example of why I love your blog! You address things we’re all experiencing but that no one talks about! It’s discouraging when cosmetic companies change or discontinue products, and leave us in the lurch to find something that looks good. I’ve given up on finding a concealer and am breaking all the rules now that I have some wrinkles. Could Sandy do a video for us of common instructions and suggestions for women of a certain age? Thank you for posting on this!

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 3:18 pm

      Thank you, Beckye! I sometimes wish I still wore glasses because at least they could hide the fact that my concealer and foundation don’t match. Great idea about a Sandy video! I’ll ask her! XOXOX, Brenda

  • LA CONTESSA October 1, 2022 at 2:50 pm

    FIERA………its called a concealer but use it as a foundation!Buy their brush too or if you have a similar one use that!
    It’s 20 some odd dollars and I LOVE IT!
    You and I are are the same skin tone I believe…………..
    LET SME KNOW!
    XOXO

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 3:22 pm

      Thanks for the tip, Elizabeth! I’ve never heard of Fiera! I learn so much here! xoxox, Brenda

  • Dee Dee October 1, 2022 at 3:37 pm

    “Could this be the first signs of dementia?” Dementia’s not funny, but you are hilarious! Thanks for the laugh and after reading everyone’s comments, I know I’m not alone in the quest for products that work on my 65+ face.

    • 1010ParkPlace October 1, 2022 at 3:53 pm

      Thanks, Dee Dee, for letting me know you’re having problems as well. We’re the largest, wealthiest demographic in the history of the world. You’d think the cosmetic industry would see this problem as a goldmine! xoxox, Brenda

  • Teresa October 1, 2022 at 11:35 pm

    Well this has been great for me I have used a make up for years I will not name the product to protect the innocent but I sell it! It’s just not working for me anymore my skin has changed so much. I now find myself looking for months for a new foundation it just isn’t happening I will keep on the hunt! This is my first time to comment I love your blog you are such a delightful person Brenda Thank you!

    • 1010ParkPlace October 2, 2022 at 12:27 am

      Thank you Teresa! While I’m sorry you’re in this predicament as well, your comment is therapeutic for me. I’m almost to the point where I think maybe I’m being too picky, but then I think back to all those years when products were a perfect match and makeup was easy and I realize I’m not so thank you again! ❤️❤️❤️ Brenda

  • Doreen McGettigan October 2, 2022 at 9:29 am

    I definitely felt this post! Not only having difficulty finding the right shades for over 60 but finding the right shades and products for my chemo-damaged skin.

    • 1010ParkPlace October 2, 2022 at 2:55 pm

      I hear you, Doreen! The good news is eventually your skin will improve after all of the poison is out of your system. Because we’re both prone to kidney stones, I imagine you’re already drinking a ton of water, which will help. Aging takes guts, doesn’t it? Praying you’re almost done with treatment. Love, Brenda

  • AR October 2, 2022 at 1:59 pm

    Reread Makeup Wakeup from cover to cover last night. It’s a classic and as relevant for all ages.

    • 1010ParkPlace October 2, 2022 at 2:58 pm

      Thanks, AR! It was next to me on the sofa, last night, but I opted instead for a thriller on Netflix. Everything Sandy and Lois Joy Johson suggest is gospel. These women have been in the beauty business for a long time, and I trust what they tell me. Brenda

  • Rosemarie October 2, 2022 at 10:36 pm

    Hi there
    I’m still laughing! Hilarious post – visualizing it all! Lips the size of Tulsa = too funny!
    I have never gotten into wearing make up and I’m hitting 74 in a couple of months. I do wear lipstick and sunscreen. Use a moisturizer at times. Did buy eye makeup a few months ago as I thought I should accent my eyes while wearing a mask at work – that lasted for one evening.
    Decades ago I went to the Shiseido counter and was “made up”. Too funny when I came home and was sitting in the living room and my roommate said are you going to sit here all night looking like that! Yes it was extreme.
    When I was going to work the Lady Gaga concert I went to MAC and had my eyes done up – for her concert I wanted something extreme for the eyes. Got lots of compliments.
    When I’ve had facials I always got compliments on my skin = genetics!

    • 1010ParkPlace October 3, 2022 at 11:48 am

      Hi Rosemarie, Glad you found humor in what I wrote. When it comes to makeup, I think most of us are the classic “before” and “after.” Without it, I blend into the wall. Sometimes when I interview women, one of the questions I ask is “Lipstick or eyeliner?” Most women choose eyeliner because it’s the one thing that can make a huge difference in our appearance. It doesn’t sound like you want to wear makeup every day and that’s okay, but you are doing the two most important things: sunscreen and moisturizer, so brava, plus it sounds like you have great skin! I love that you have your eyes done for the Lady Gaga concert!!! That’s so fun! One of the reasons I love going to concerts is that I’m inspired by the over 65 artists… more like over 70… and I love seeing how the other concertgoers are dressed like top hats and black skirts for Stevie Nicks and black fishnet stockings and thongs for Cher! Loved your comment! Thank you! Brenda

  • Yvonne October 3, 2022 at 7:21 am

    I wrote a comment a few days ago but for some reason it didn’t appear here. Anyway, I know how you feel. Since the pandemic I wear moisturizer, tinted sunscreen and eye makeup because I still wear a mask except to go for a walk in the park where I put on one of my many beautiful lipsticks that I bought and that unfortunately are going bad due to lack of use. In the past I used Estee Lauder’s Double Wear foundation and concealer but now I just wear tinted sunscreen and can’t find a concealer that’s suitable. It sinks in the fine lines. Since I have to wear glasses, it helps to hide some flaws. Very disappointing and frustrating to say the least when you can’t find your usual makeup or when the formula has changed. The best thing we can do for our skin is to drink lots of water , use a good moisturizer, accept our imperfections and wear a beautiful shade of lipstick… it makes a huge difference. Brenda, you’re the best!

    • 1010ParkPlace October 3, 2022 at 11:54 am

      Thank you, Yvonne! Masks have been game changers for makeup. I’ve never tried tinted sunscreen, but I’ve seen some great reviews on some of the brands. One of the makeup artists I’ve talked to in the last month said an eye cream will help prevent concealer from settling into our fine lines. I thought it would be just the opposite, but it does seem to help. Now if I could only find the right shade!! I drink tons of water, and when I don’t get enough sleep, or I drink alcohol, it shows on my face the next morning. These were all things I could get away with when I was younger. All the things we take for granted… You’re the best as well, Yvonne! Thanks, again for the great comment. xoxox, Brenda

  • Rosemarie October 3, 2022 at 2:36 pm

    This is a follow up re previous e-mail.
    I’m still laughing a day later. Lips the size of Tulsa. I’m sure I’ll still be laughing the rest of the week.
    Thanks again for sharing your experience. I shall try your tip re eyeliner – tomorrow – cosmetic counter here I come.

    • 1010ParkPlace October 3, 2022 at 4:41 pm

      You’re a love, Rosemarie! Thank you! I, too, am gearing up to go to the cosmetic counter tomorrow to return some things that don’t look good on me. I think I’ll be better able to handle any disappointment that comes my way, and I’ll remember to steer clear of salespeople whose beauty aesthetic is on the back side of the moon from mine. Let me know how you do! xoxox, Brenda

  • Sandra Sallin October 4, 2022 at 10:30 am

    Ha! You’re a hoot. The first piece of advice is don’t buy anything until you give it the “ sitting in the car in bright shade test.” That’s my way of seeing what the color really looks like. Searching for the perfect foundation is a “b**ch.” have you tried Sephora? That’s where I found my lovely Dior Forever. Give it a try.

    • Brenda Coffee October 4, 2022 at 10:48 am

      Hello My Darling Sandy! Yes, that used to be my rule as well, but somehow, it got lost by the wayside. I have a bottle of Dior Forever I’m going to return. It’s too matte for my skin and that look is aging on me. Interesting how the same foundation can look so different on us. xoxox, Brenda

  • margiemi October 6, 2022 at 5:20 pm

    Have you ever heard of the website: lookfabulousforever.com? The company was started in England by Tricia Cusdon and provides makeup/tutorials, etc., for “older women.” (“Perfect makeup for older faces”) She has a very interesting web site with reams of information. I have purchased some of her eye shadows/lipsticks/blush; and, if whatever I purchase doesn’t feel right/look good to me, I have returned it. It might be worth a “looksee.” I wear makeup every day but find, when I wear a mask, I stick mostly to eye makeup/blush. I’m a “full makeup” user and have my dressing table full of various colors/brands so I “feel your pain.” I’ll keep watching to see what you decide on in your never-ending search. Great subject and website.

  • Melody Caldwell October 6, 2022 at 9:04 pm

    I am over 60 and have also tried many new concealers/make up because Lancome discontinued my go to for years. I stumbled upon Giorgio Armani luminous silk concealer. I use it as makeup and apply with the Artisa brush. I purchased the product at Ulta and they have quite a few shades. It gives your skin a luminous glow as the name suggests. Never really write comments, but just love this product.

  • Linda November 19, 2022 at 7:58 am

    Hi Brenda, I’m just finding your fabulous blog, so I’m reading earlier posts. I’m 74 and discovered Armani Luminous Silk foundation a few years ago. I love it! Many shades and looks fabulous all day.

  • Sandra Sallin December 4, 2022 at 10:53 am

    Naughty you for forgetting those basic rules. I never buy a foundation until it’s been car tested. I put it on and then sit in the car and see how it looks. It’s that covered bright shade that tells no lies. Then if the color is good I go back and buy it. I’ve got a lot of red or pink in my face. I’ve been very happy with the Dior Forever shine? and the Chanel 1. Finding the right foundation is like a quest. It takes a long time and may tries. But I know you can do it. So go forth and try some more.

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