Women have been obsessed with makeup since the ancients discovered that they could beautify themselves with any pigments they could get their hands on. We're always looking for expert tips, so I asked New York City based makeup artist Stefanie Syat for her beauty advice on makeup styles and best cosmetics.
Interview with Stefanie Syat
Q: What are your top three tips for women over 40 - not the usual, no sparkles and lighter makeup - something new that women might not know?
Syat: 1) I love a defined top eyeliner. As the years pass, those luscious lashes tend to become a bit more scarce. A pigmented top liner (preferable a Bobbi Brown or MAC liner in Dark Brown, Black, or Deep Plum - depending on mood and complexion) fills in those lash gaps while creating the illusion of a thicker lash line overall.
For the makeup savvy folks, adding a "wing "or "flick" to the the top eye liner gives an automatic eye lift. It's addictive.
2) Use Peter Thomas Roth Max Anti-Shine Mattifying Gel all around the eyes AFTER concealer. No need to explain, just try it and you'll be obsessed!
3) Lip Liner. I am not usually a fan of lipliner because so many people abuse it, but when worn correctly, it can really take years off the face. I think the trick is to apply the liner after the lipstick to give a fuller and more even appearance around the mouth. If you have even lips and do not feel that your lipstick feathers then you can skip it altogether. But adding a finishing touch of liner in certain areas - around the cupids bow, for example, can make a world of difference.
Q: What's the number one mistake women over 40 make when it comes to makeup and hair?
Syat: I think women over 40 use too many coral shades in their makeup - specifically blush. Pink is the natural undertone of most people when they flush, so to look as natural and fresh faced as possible, stick to the pinks! Coral tends to sit on the skin whereas the pink blends in and feels more like a pick-me-up.
Q: If you could only have ONE item of makeup, which could you NOT live without and why?
Syat: Mascara. I have blond lashes and look about 12 years old (and still asleep) without it.
More About Stefanie Syat
Stefanie Syat is a NYC-based freelance makeup artist specializing in editorial, advertising and beauty. Born and raised in the Boston area, Syat was a trendsetter with her friends and family at a young age. She decided to pursue her interest in fashion, art and design as a commercial photography major at Ohio University. While working in photography, Syat found her true passion for makeup and has been working in the makeup industry ever since.
With a keen understanding of lighting, she understands the importance of great makeup. The combination of her attention to detail and versatile makeup skills has fostered her success while her upbeat personality and strong work ethic keeps her clients extra happy.
A few of Syat's recent clients include: Covergirl, Lucky Magazine, Birchbox, QVC, Converse, Maxim, ESPN Magazine, Bacardi Limon, Heinekin, Verizon, PUMA, Gilt Groupe, Bravo and MTV.
She is currently working on her newest glam project, Pre-Dame. Featured on NYC's WABC - Channel 7 Eyewitness News and written up in Time Out New York, Syat says, "Pre-Dame is changing the way manhattanites pre-party one smoky eye at a time! Grab your girls and book your own Pre-Dame Makeup Party before your next big event!"
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