Please help an almost 50 year old beginner!

[KaleidoscopeEyes]

I've never really worn makeup. I put a bit on when I go out but not 'face' makeup, if that makes sense. Hate lipstick and generally only do eyes and maybe a bit of concealer.

However.. I am getting to a point where I'm starting to need it a bit.

I need a budget basic kit to teach myself how to apply it, and I would really like some advice from all you beauty gurus!

TIA.

55 here.

I use a creme-to-powder foundation - mine is Avon but I think most of the big brands do them. Don’t be tempted to go too dark (or too light if like me you are dark-skinned) - you are aiming for your own skin colouring, just a more even tone and any blemishes covered.

I use blusher on my cheeks and a little on my browbone. I have also started to use a pale pink eyeshadow to bring my eyes “out” a bit, As they had started to look a bit sunken with age. I won’t go on about eyes as you already do them, but I use eyeliner (not a harsh line though) and have also started to “fill in” my brows carefully as they are beginning to get a bit sparse and grey. Makes a difference.

Natural-looking lipstick.

I aim for the “me, but on a good day” look. Too much make-up, or too dramatic, however well-applied, makes me look like a drag queen.

Also want to say, prep is really important, moisturiser, primer if you like it.

Good luck!

PS I often use lip balm through the day rather than lipstick, there are tinted balms that are quite nice.

I'd suggest going to a bigger Boots and getting your foundation colour-matched st the No 7 counter. You'll have plenty of choice of how thick the foundation is (coverage) but if you've never worn anything you might be surprised at the colour suggested. Mine's almost grey looking but makes my skin much more even -as suggested by pp

I'm 54 and never wore foundation or powder either. My skin started getting blotchy in menopause so I was recommended a cc cream. It's really light on the skin and just lifts your skin. I get whatever high end brand is cheap in TK Maxx! I agree about tinted lip balm. I use Nivea Cherry Shine. It has just enough colouring and is good for moisture.

Depending on budget, I'd suggest going to Space NK and booking a make-up appointment so they can show you a basic look. Just tinted moisturiser, a little natural blush in a good colour for you, and maybe some lip balm/gloss (plus mascara and concealer where needed) - Nars do a great tinted lip balm in their 'orgasm' colour that is sufficiently neutral (i.e. not too peachy for cool skin tones like their blushers) to work on most people. Space NK has loads of great but pricey brands. Or Bobbi Brown? Go at a quiet time! Preferably not lunchtime in the day during the week!