In my 40s and need a make-up reboot

[Ypsilanti]

As the title suggests, I’m in my early 40s and almost overnight it seems like the make-up I’ve been wearing for the past decade no longer works for me. I prefer a light, natural look, but even so I feel products are now just sitting on my skin rather than enhancing/improving in the way they used to.

I have very dry skin so have a good moisturising routine and have done for years. I am very fair and have mild rosacea - started a Skin & Me prescription a few months ago which is definitely helping. But while improved, I feel my skin still looks sallow and lifeless.

I know I could go to a makeup counter and ask for advice but ideally I don’t want to be restricted to a single brand. Does such a thing as a multi-brand makeup counter exist? I’m in London so lucky to have lots of choice. Any other recommendations or advice welcome - I feel I’ve suddenly aged by years!

I've recently discovered AYU, fantastic make up.

I'm 39 and make my own tinted moisturiser using my favourite livid foundation and suncream. Sits lovely 😍

As you're in London, could you go to a big Space NK? Think they have some interesting brands without the counter approach of a department store.

Otherwise, is it worth booking a session with a makeup artist and getting them to go through things with you? Might be doable cost-wise with a few friends for an alternative to a night out?

Random curveball suggestion - get on meetup and look for beauty / perimenopause events! Where I am (N Yorks) there are several groups for perimenopause women and I’ve been to beauty themed events at a local salon, clothes events for peri changing bodies, etc. Appreciate this may not be relevant but worth a shot!

I’d not thought of Space NK - thank you! I’ve not heard of AYU so will look them out too. And on the peri front, no doubt that’s the cause (I don’t have any other symptoms yet) so not a bad suggestion to connect the dots and think laterally.

I know you didnt want a single brand, but i like Trinny London - can do your product matches online. She is also on Instagram and has loads of makeup videos / advice. It's Trinny Woodall (from Trinny and Susannah) x