Women’s skin, hair and beauty needs evolve as they age. What was just right for their skin in their 20s or 30s may not feel or look the same after 40. They can start to look harsher or unnatural, feel less comfortable to wear, or even emphasize certain unwanted signs of aging.
We asked several women what they’ve stopped using over time and were surprised to see just how similar their answers were. So here are 12 products women say they stopped using after 40.
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Bright blue or green eyeliner
The women we talked to agreed that bright eyeliner shades like bright blue, green or even purple can look beautiful. But they can sometimes make eyes look tired and not really complement more mature skin tones. Most think softer shades of brown, plum or navy are often more flattering and more subtle.
Harsh facial scrubs
Many women we talked to feel that harsh facial scrubs can be too drying and irritating for sensitive skin, as the skin gets more delicate with age. Most have switched to gentle chemical exfoliants with lactic or glycolic acid.
Dark lip liner
Dark lip liner in colors like black, brown or gray used to be trendy in the 90s. But many women over 40 feel that it’s difficult to pull off as lips naturally get thinner with age. Instead of a harsh line, they reach for liners one or two shades darker than their natural lip color to create a softer, more defined lip.
Heavy powder
Most women over 40 agreed that powder is an excellent way to mattify skin, but too much can make skin appear dry and cakey. As skin tends to become less oily with age, they usually just use a light dusting of powder in the T-zone and areas that get shiny.
Bubble bath bombs
Bubble bath bombs with strong scents were seen as fun by some women, but most women we interviewed said they often irritate skin that’s become more sensitive with age. In fact, most said that fragrance-free soaks and calming oils are great substitutes.
Heavy, full-coverage foundation
Most women said that foundation that is heavy or fully matte can easily settle into fine lines and wrinkles. Instead of making skin appear smooth, it can highlight more of what it’s trying to conceal. So they often switch to lighter, more hydrating formulas or just use a tinted moisturizer that feels more breathable.
Glittery eyeshadow
Although most women say that shimmery eyeshadow looks fun, the shimmer in those shades can settle into fine lines and uneven texture in the delicate eye area. So many just opt for softer, satin finishes or matte shades instead.
Bright, neon nail polish
Bold colors like neon green or electric blue can feel too harsh or distracting. According to most women we interviewed, neutral or classic shades often feel more flattering and easier to maintain.
Strong alcohol-based toners
Most women also said that alcohol-based toners can feel harsh and drying on the skin. And the tight, irritated feeling they leave behind doesn’t get any better as skin gets older. So most of them almost exclusively use gentle, hydrating toners or essences.
Overly dramatic false lashes
Many women felt that thick, long and dark false lashes can overwhelm the eye and look unnatural. Many tend to reach for lighter, more natural-looking lashes or just use a great mascara.
Hair spray with extra hold
Most women love hairspray. But they also said that super stiff versions that keep hair looking unnaturally straight or in place can also make hair look lifeless and crunchy. Most prefer flexible-hold sprays and light styling creams that give just enough hold without making hair stiff.
Heavy contour kits
Heavy contouring kits looked great on the women we spoke to when they were younger. But a lot of them felt it looks too harsh on skin that is a little more mature. They said that a little bronzing, especially with cream formulas, gives a softer, more youthful look that doesn’t look like paint.
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