The Over-40 Makeup Trend That Actually Works (And My Rosacea-Friendly Routine!)

After cleansing, I apply my vitamin C serum. I'm currently enjoying the Intensive Vitamin C 20% Ampoule by VGreen. It's relatively new to my routine, but I'm already impressed. Vitamin C is a non-negotiable for me in the mornings for several reasons. It's a powerhouse anti-aging ingredient that boosts collagen production, brightens my complexion, and reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots (those pesky reminders of sun-drenched days without sunscreen – learn from my mistakes!). Beyond its anti-aging benefits, vitamin C is also a potent antioxidant, shielding my skin from environmental damage throughout the day. The VGreen serum absorbs quickly and doesn't leave a sticky residue, which I appreciate.

Next up is another absolute essential, especially for managing my rosacea: Finacea, my prescription azelaic acid. This product is a game-changer. I apply it every morning and most evenings, sometimes even twice a day. Finacea effectively calms the redness and inflammation associated with rosacea, keeping my skin looking even and balanced. It's a crucial step in my routine that helps me maintain a calm and comfortable complexion.

Now, for a touch of color. I'm not a foundation person. I prefer a natural, "no-makeup" makeup look that lets my real skin shine through. However, sometimes I want a little something extra to even out my skin tone and minimize any lingering redness from my rosacea. On those days, I skip foundation and instead mix a tiny drop of bronzing drops into my moisturizer. I've been alternating between Drunk Elephant's D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops and Indeed Labs' Nanobronze Bronzing Drops. The Drunk Elephant drops are a splurge, but they deliver a beautiful, subtle glow with added antioxidant benefits. The Indeed Labs Nanobronze is a fantastic, budget-friendly alternative that provides a similar sun-kissed effect. The key with both products is to use a tiny amount. With my fair skin, a single drop mixed into my Oat So Simple Water Cream is perfect. You can always build up the color gradually, depending on your skin tone and desired level of bronze. This technique creates a much more natural look than foundation and gives my skin a healthy, radiant glow without the sun damage.

Finally, the most important step of any skincare routine, regardless of age or skin type: sunscreen! This is another non-negotiable for me, both for anti-aging and for managing my rosacea. The sun is a major trigger for my rosacea flares, so protecting my skin with a broad-spectrum SPF is crucial. Today, I'm using La Mer's The Broad Spectrum SPF 50. It's a luxurious treat, and I love the dewy finish it gives my skin. It sits beautifully under makeup or can be worn alone for a naturally radiant look.

After my skincare routine, I skip foundation and go straight in with a cream highlighter stick. I'm currently using one from Colourpop – they're super affordable and come in a wide range of shades. I apply the highlighter to the high points of my face: cheekbones, brow bone, down the bridge of my nose, and a touch on my cupid's bow. This creates a beautiful, natural-looking glow that catches the light beautifully. The key is to blend, blend, blend! You don't want any harsh lines or streaks. I use my fingers to gently melt the product into my skin for a seamless finish.

Next, I add a touch of liquid blush. I'm currently loving Huda Beauty's Cheeky Tint Blush Stick. It's incredibly pigmented, so you only need a tiny amount. I apply a small dot to the apples of my cheeks and blend it outwards and upwards towards my temples. This gives a youthful flush of color and adds dimension to my face. The liquid formula blends seamlessly into the skin for a natural, healthy-looking flush.

Finally, to complete the look, I apply a coat or two of my favorite mascara. I'm currently using Benefit's Bad Gal Bang! Volumizing Mascara. It delivers amazing volume and length without clumping or flaking, which is essential for mature lashes. This helps to open up my eyes and make them look brighter and more awake.