Makeup's effect on perceived age depends heavily on several factors, including the individual's age, the type and application of makeup, and personal preferences. It's not a simple yes or no answer.
The Impact of Makeup on Perceived Age
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Teens and Young Adults: Research shows that in individuals in their teens and early twenties, makeup often makes them appear older. This is because techniques and styles often associated with maturity might not suit younger faces. Overuse of harsh colours or heavy application can exaggerate features, leading to an older appearance. ([Reference: Faces in their teens and early 20s appear older with makeup, while faces in their 40, 50, and 60s appear younger with makeup. Around the age of 30 or so, makeup does not affect apparent age.])
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Older Adults: Conversely, in individuals aged 40, 50, and 60, makeup can have the opposite effect, making them look younger. Strategic application techniques can highlight positive features and minimize the appearance of age-related changes. ([Reference: Faces in their teens and early 20s appear older with makeup, while faces in their 40, 50, and 60s appear younger with makeup. Around the age of 30 or so, makeup does not affect apparent age.])
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Around 30: Around age 30, the effect of makeup on perceived age is generally neutral. ([Reference: Faces in their teens and early 20s appear older with makeup, while faces in their 40, 50, and 60s appear younger with makeup. Around the age of 30 or so, makeup does not affect apparent age.])
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Makeup Style: The style of makeup matters significantly. A "full face" of glam makeup can indeed make someone appear older if it's overdone with harsh colors and techniques. Careful application using softer colors and techniques can achieve a more youthful and natural look. ([Reference: A full face only makes people look older if they overdo it with harsh black khol, in-your-face highlighter and blush etc. Carefully applied good…]) Conversely, some makeup styles deliberately aim to create a more mature look. ([Reference: But yeah, style matters. You do your makeup differently trying to look older vs trying to look younger. A lot of women put down the eyeliner…])
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Individual Variation: It's important to remember that every person is different. Skin tone, facial features, and personal style all play a role in how makeup affects an individual's appearance.
Conclusion
Whether makeup makes a girl look older is not straightforward. It depends significantly on age, application techniques, and the style of makeup chosen. While heavy application can enhance mature features in younger individuals, it can also minimize signs of aging in older individuals.
