As an Amazon affiliate, I may earn from qualifying purchases. Please read our Disclaimer and Privacy Policy.
After trying a variety of products, I finally learned how to conceal under eye bags over 50.
My problem is that my eyes water whenever it’s the least bit cold outside. Unless I’m wearing a waterproof concealer (which I found!), there’s no point in wearing concealer at all.
Unfortunately, dark circles and undereye bags are common for people over 50.
The reasons range from thinning skin, reduced collagen, lack of sleep, and lifestyle.
In this post, I’ll explain how the proper techniques and products can work together to achieve a smooth, bright under-eye area.
I’ll also share my secrets to minimizing the appearance of dark circles under the eyes.
Finally, I’ll give you a few product ideas to help get you started.
What causes undereye bags and how can you learn to conceal under eye bags over 50?
​I turn 57 years old tomorrow, and I’ve noticed that my skin, particularly the delicate skin under the eye, is thinning.
I have crow’s feet, my skin texture is changing, and I need a moisturizer with a rich, creamy formula.
I’m getting old, and that’s okay. I’m not going to do Botox because, frankly, I don’t have a lot of money.
Instead, I’m going to face aging head-on and get rid of the mirrors in my home (just kidding). I like to call this radical acceptance of the inevitable.
PS: I still feel insecure about how I look as I age. That’s why I try to keep it together by getting enough sleep, a decent diet, and a good skincare routine.
I’m learning to accept that sometimes, no matter how hard you try, your body will have “those days” when it just doesn’t feel it.
That said, let’s talk about the causes of dark under-eye circles and puffiness.
Loss of Skin Elasticity: How to Conceal Under Eye Bags Over 50
According to reduces including the Journal of Investigative Dermatology and the American Academy of Dermatology, the reason we lose skin elasticity and elastin production is a combination of biological and environmental factors.Â
Natural Aging Process: Why we want to learn how to conceal under eye bags over 50
As we age, the cells responsible for producing elastin and collagen (fibroblast cells) decrease.
In addition, our skin’s turnover rate decreases as we age. Damaged cells take longer to be replaced, and this affects or skin’s firmness and elasticity.
Hormonal Changes: Another reason why we want to learn how to conceal under eye bags over 50
If you’re reading this, I’m sure it doesn’t come as a shock. Anyone over 50 knows the trials and tribulations that come with “the change of life,” otherwise known as perimenopause and post menopause.
​For one thing, the dip in estrogen production decreases a lot during menopause.
Since estrogen is responsible for many bodily processes, it makes since that we feel hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, reduced bone density, mood, and sleep disturbance.
It doesn’t stop there. Progesterone levels also drop, leading to menstrual cycle changes, sleep disruptions, and other uncomfortable symptoms.
It’s no wonder we want to learn how to conceal under eye bags over 50!
Oh, wait! There’s more.
Women also have a small amount of testostorone that drops with age. That can lead to loss of libido, loss of muscle and bone density, and mood changes.Â
Why are we not talking about how to conceal under eye bags over 50?
Technically, we are. It’s important to understand that the changes we’re seeing in our skin is reflected through the significant changes our bodies are handling.Â
It’s easy to look in the mirror and think our skin is betraying us, when actually it’s our whole body! Feel better? No, I didn’t think so.
Here’s the thing, if you’re over 50 (as I am), it’s normal to have drier skin, the occasional appearance of puffiness under the eyes, along with all the other things that come with aging, including dark spots on our face and hands.
Don’t Forget These Pick Me Ups: A Complement to Learning How to Conceal Under Eye Bags Over 50
Since we’re working on better, more youth-ful looking skin, we could also be thinking about things like hair health and hairstyles.
Of course, a new look wouldn’t be complete without decent lipstick!
Read the following posts to help close the gap on your beauty and skin care routine:
25 Ultra Best Lipstick Colors For Over 60 Mature Women
Best shampoo and conditioner for hair over 50 (2024)
7 Best Stores for Petite Women’s Fashion Over 50
Top Secrets on How to Conceal Under Eye Bags Over 50
Okay, so let’s get to it. There are a ton of skincare products on the market. It’s a dizzying process to try and figure out which products will be right for you.
My secret is to mix and match products. When I was learning how to conceal under eye bags over 50, I specifically searched products designed to take the focus away from the fine lines and dark circles.
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to stick to one specific product line. Sometimes it takes a “beauty blender” of products to soften fine lines around the delicare area around the eyes.
The choice of skin care products is totally up to you.
However, I will give you some examples of the products I really like further into this post. In the meantime, I want to share how to prepare the under-eye area for makeup. You’ll want to do this to create a long-lasting and natural-looking finish.
Start with a Hydrating Eye Cream When Learning How to Conceal Under Eye Bags Over 50
Hydrating eye creams work by delivering moisture to the delicate eye area. For this, you’ll want products that attract and lock in water.
Look for products with humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera. You may not find a product with all three ingredients, and that’s okay.
You’ll want a product with a least one of these ingredients because they attract water from the deeper layers of skin or the enviroment. This helps to keep the skin hydrated and plump.
Other active ingredients to look for include when learning how to conceal under eye bags over 50
- Emollients (squalane, ceramides, and plant oils)
- Occulsives (shea butter or dimethicone)
​The skin under the eye is very thin and prone to dehydration. This is what causes those prominent fine lines.
Of course, we also want to reduce the puffiness of under-eye bags with products that can constrict blood vessels to calm inflammation.Â
Look for products with:
- Caffeine
- Green tea extract
- Chamomile
Protect the skin barrier
Ingredients like ceramides, peptides, and and niacinamide (Vitamin B3) help strengthen the skin barrier. A stronger skin barrier is better at holding onto hydration.
Look for a good product with a lightweight, hydrating concealer. If you haven’t figured it out by now, moisture is the secret weapon for mature skin.
Drier, thicker concealers can settle into fine lines and make undereye bags appear more prominent.Â
Support Collagen Production
Skin care products have come a long way, with many hydrating eye creams now including ingredients to support collagen production.
These ingredients include things like peptides and retinal in low concentrations. Vitamin C may also be added as a brightening agent.
Skincare Habits to Minimize Undereye Puffiness
Unfortunately, the best concealer in the world can’t perform miracles. If you’re experiencing severe puffiness and dark circles, there are a few things you can try.
These include:
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling under the eye
- Sleep on a slightly elevated pillow to get more blood flow (blood circulation). Elevating your head helps to prevent fluid buildup in the rest of your face by encouraging fluids to drain away.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Use products that contain caffeine, which can help reduce puffiness.
A healthy lifestyle that includes getting adequate sleep, reducing salt intake, and managing stress can go a long way in how your skin ages.
How to Apply Concealer for Maximum Coverage and Minimal Creasing
Now that you’ve prepped the skin with a hydrating eye cream, you might want to use a makeup primer.
This is optional, but it may further smooth out fine lines while creating a more even surface for your makeup.
To apply the primer, apply a small amount with your ring finger and gently pat it in.
Applying the concealer
A little goes a long way. In fact, too much concealer can settle into lines.
That defeats the whole purpose. Instead, place two or three small dots of concealer on the darkest areas under your eyes. To help brighten the eye area, try applying your concealer in a triangle shape under your eye instead of straight across.
You can use a damp makeup sponge (not wet!) or your ring finger to gently blend the concealer without tugging on the skin. Avoid dragging or rubbing as this can irritate and stretch the skin.
Buildable coverage
It’s better to start with a thin amount of concealer first. Then, if you want, you can add more coverage if needed.Too much layering will become cakey.
Set with powder
​This takes a little finesse. You’ll want to use a very fine, transculent setting powder and small fluffy brush.
Using a very small amount, lightly press the powder into the skin where needed. A tiny amount goes a long way. Be careful not to get powder into your eyes.
Use a light-reflecting pen or highlighter (optional)
To get a radiant finish, consider using a small amount of highlighter on the inner corners and just below the outer corner of your eyes. Blend lightly with your fingertip or sponge.
The Best Concealers to Hide Undereye Bags Over 50
The following are some of the best undereye concealers for mature skin.
Again, for me it was a of trial and error. Eventually, I setled on Lise Watier Concealer and I’ve been using it happily for about 6 years now.
​There are plenty of colors to choose from, it’s waterproof (a huge plus for me) and it goes on with a light touch and a matte finish.
THIS IS MY FAVE!
Lise Watier Concealer
- Creamy formula
- Luminous finish
- Recommended for concealing undereye bags and circles
- High coverage
- Smoothes the appearance of wrinkles
- Natural Finish
Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer
For light to medium complexion
- Radiant finish
- Moisturizing
- Hides blemishes, dark circles
- Long lasting all-day wear
- Dermatologist tested fragrance-free
Jane Iredale *My second fave!
Enlighten Plus Under-eye Concealer
- Brightens & depuffs
- Lightweight
- Full coverage with SPF
- Smooth skin texture
- Corrects fine lines
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the best way to conceal under eye bags over 50 is to look after your skin and choose the best products for you.
You can start by prepping your skin with a primer, using a concealer color that works best for your skin type, and setting your makeup with a light touch of powder.
I’ve mentioned a few of my favorite under eye concealers above. While I stand by my choice of Lise Watier, the next best thing would be the Jane Iredale concealer.
I hope you’ve learned a few things on how to conceal under eye bags over 50. I also hope that my product suggestions are useful.
I’d love to know what your favorite concealers are so let me know in the comments!
Thank you for reading this post! If you have a minute, why not click on the social media icons below and share what you’ve learned.