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Class 1: Makeup Masterclass on Skin Prep for Longer Lasting Makeup

Class 1: Makeup Masterclass on Skin Prep for Longer Lasting Makeup - Adorn Cosmetics

As we age, our skin changes and so should our skincare and makeup routines. Whether you’re noticing drier skin, fine lines, or loss of radiance, the first step to a flawless face isn’t foundation it’s skin prep.

In this first instalment of our Makeup Masterclass series, we’re diving deep into skincare tips for mature skin to help you master makeup that actually lasts. This guide is tailored for those who want to enhance their natural glow, especially if you’re exploring makeup for mature skin over 50.

Spoiler: it’s not about piling on products it’s about thoughtful layering and choosing the right natural formulas.

Watch our founder Briony's Masterclass here on her best tips, for more in-depth info keep reading the article below.

Why Skin Prep Matters More as We Age

Think of skin prep like priming a canvas before painting. As we mature, our skin produces less collagen, retains less moisture, and becomes more textured. This means makeup can settle into lines, cling to dry patches, or disappear entirely if the skin isn’t properly prepped.

The good news? With a few intentional tweaks to your routine and a little help from performance-driven, kind-to-skin formulas you can restore bounce, radiance, and hydration that allows your makeup to glide on and stay put all day.

Overnight Recovery for Daytime Radiance

Prepping for makeup doesn’t start in the morning, it begins the night before.

To deeply replenish your skin while you sleep, we recommend the Overnight Sleep Repair Mask. Rich in skin-loving nutrients and hydrating botanicals, this overnight mask restores moisture and elasticity while you rest, so you wake up with plumper, more refreshed skin.

Tip: Apply this 2–3 times a week, especially before big events or long makeup days. Your skin will drink it up.

Sweaty Nights Repair Set - 3 Months - Acne & Blemishes

The Morning Glow Boost

When you’re over 50, radiance becomes your best friend. Mature skin can often look dull due to slower cell turnover and dryness, so waking up your skin with a boost of glow is essential.

Enter the Morning Glow Day Cream. Formulated with brightening antioxidants and hydrating ingredients, this multitasking moisturiser preps your skin for makeup while delivering a soft, natural glow that doesn’t feel greasy or heavy.

Why we love it: It’s lightweight but ultra-hydrating, leaving your skin luminous and supple, the perfect base for foundation or tinted moisturiser.

Jar of best day cream for mature skin by Adorn on a white background

Shop: Morning Glow Day Cream

Lock in Hydration with a Primer-Moisturiser Hybrid

Primers can be hit-or-miss for mature skin. Too mattifying, and they highlight texture. Too slippery, and your makeup won’t last. That’s why we swear by the Hydration+ Makeup Primer Moisturiser a two-in-one product designed specifically for dry or mature complexions.

Packed with nourishing Vitamin E, this product smooths out the skin’s surface, fills in fine lines, and creates a hydrated base that grips your makeup without settling into creases.

Pro Tip: Apply it while your skin is still slightly damp from your glow cream. This helps lock in moisture and gives your skin a dewy finish that looks fresh all day.

Clear jar of ADORN skin primer moisturiser on a white background

Shop: Hydration+ Makeup Primer Moisturiser

Add Extra Nourishment Where You Need It Most

Even with a great moisturiser and primer, certain areas like around the eyes, nose, and mouth may need extra love.

That’s where the Day Defence Face & Makeup Oil comes in. This gentle yet potent formula is rich in anti-ageing oils that provide an extra layer of protection and nourishment to mature skin.

How to use: Tap a few drops into dry patches or areas with deeper lines before applying makeup. You can also mix a drop into your foundation to create a custom hydrating base.

Adorn Day Defence Ceramide Oil bottle with yellow liquid on a light gray background

Shop: Day Defence Face & Makeup Oil

Skin Prep Tips for Mature Skin That Make a Visible Difference

Here are a few of our best tips to keep in mind when prepping mature skin:

  • Less is more: Mature skin tends to respond better to fewer, richer products. Focus on hydration and glow, not mattifying or tightening.
  • Be gentle: Use soft patting motions instead of rubbing. A gua sha or jade roller can also boost circulation for an extra glow.
  • Hydrate throughout the day: Keep a hydrating mist or facial spray handy to refresh your skin and help makeup stay looking fresh.
  • SPF always: While this masterclass focuses on makeup prep, no daytime routine is complete without sun protection. Always apply SPF as the last step before makeup.

The Result? Happy, Radiant Skin That Loves Makeup

When your skin is happy and hydrated, your makeup becomes a joy to apply. Foundation glides on, blush looks natural, and even highlighters catch the light in all the right ways.

Remember, makeup for mature skin over 50 doesn’t mean caking on coverage it means enhancing your features and embracing your skin’s unique texture and glow. Proper skin prep is the first (and arguably most important) step in that process.

Watch All Masterclass Episodes:

Masterclass 1: Skin Prep - WATCH HERE
Masterclass 2: Makeup Tools - WATCH HERE
Masterclass 3: Foundation - WATCH HERE
Masterclass 4: Concealer & Eye Primer - WATCH HERE
Masterclass 5: Brows - WATCH HERE
Masterclass 6: Contour - WATCH HERE
Masterclass 7: Blush & Highlighter - WATCH HERE
Masterclass 8: Eyes & Lips - WATCH HERE