'I'm an over-50s beauty writer. Here are 6 makeup products I can't stop using.'

I love makeup. I really do.

Not only do I write for you here at Mamamia, but I also run an over-50s beauty channel on YouTube, where I focus on skincare and makeup for women like me.  Women who've lived a little, know what they like, and want products that actually work for us, not against us.

Watch: Indy Clinton spilled exactly what's in her bag on Mamamia's You Beauty. Post continues below.

We're often overlooked by the beauty industry, barely marketed to and rarely represented, which, in the words of Julia Roberts, is a "big mistake. Big. Huge." We're at a stage in life where many of us have more disposable income and know our skin better than ever. But because we're not part of the marketing spotlight, we're often left out of the loop on what's new and genuinely good. That's where I come in.

Think of me as your pocket guide.

I test a lot of products — it's part of the job — and while plenty come and go, there are a few that make it into regular rotation. These six makeup products have earned their place on my face. I reach for them over and over in real life and not just for content. And if you're a fellow over-50 beauty lover, I think you might fall for them too.

A skin-perfecting base that lets your skin shine.

Kylie Cosmetics Skin Tint Blurring Elixir - 2.5N, $45.

If you've avoided Kylie Cosmetics because of who's behind it, here's a reminder: Coty owns 51 per cent of the brand, and the base products are genuinely excellent. I've tried them all, and this skin tint is the standout. It delivers lightweight, light-to-medium coverage that resembles real skin, just smoother, plumper and more hydrated. It blurs beautifully, doesn't settle into fine lines, and won't clog pores or cling to dry patches.

This silicone-based formula includes skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration and line-plumping, propanediol for moisture and ingredient absorption, and pentylene glycol for added hydration and antimicrobial benefits. Emollients like phenyl trimethicone and dimethicone leave a silky finish and lock in moisture; everything mature skin needs to look fresh and radiant.

My favourite way to apply it is with a small, dense brush. I load the brush by tapping it into the product on the back of my hand or palette, then work it in before applying. This gives me light, even coverage that I can build in layers — perfect for textured or mature skin that needs glow without weight.

Image: Supplied.

Setting without settling.

Morphe's Bake & Set Setting Powder, $22.

If you're after a setting powder that flatters mature skin, this powder is a winner. Many women avoid powder with age, fearing it'll highlight texture, but this talc-free, finely milled formula does the opposite. It blurs, smooths, and controls shine without looking dry or cakey, leaving skin naturally radiant.

It sets makeup for long wear, feels weightless, and contains vitamin E to help condition the skin, all for a fraction of the price of high-end powders.

Pro tip: After setting, soak (yes, soak) your face with setting spray to melt everything together, boost glow and lock in your base. Fan it down until dry. You will see the difference.

Image: Supplied.

A bronzer that brings life back.

Benefit Hoola Wave Balm, $65

I know the original Benefit Hoola Bronzer has cult status, but honestly? It never worked for me (too orange, too 2000s). Enter the Hoola Wave Balm, and I'm officially converted. This firm balm has the perfect neutral undertone and a buildable formula that gives a natural, healthy warmth without looking heavy or overdone.

It's less pigmented than the powdered version, which is a good thing. You can layer it gradually for a seamless finish. My go-to method: use a flat, dense brush and stamp the product on rather than swiping. This avoids disrupting any base products underneath, and yes, it applies beautifully even over powder.

Image: Supplied.

Eyeshadow that adds pop without the drop.

Colorrose Water Ripple Eyeshadow, $23

If you know me, you know I'm eyeshadow-obsessed, and yes, I own a collector-level stash. While I adore high-end palettes, this affordable gem has truly impressed me. This one has a warm rose-gold with soft coppery depth, adds just the right touch of shimmer and colour, making eyes pop without overpowering. Perfect for mature lids.

The formula is buttery and mousse-like, gliding on easily and blending without creasing, fading, or settling into fine lines. Just tap it on with your fingertip for a quick glow, or layer over a matte brown for extra depth. Whether you wear glasses or love a simple routine, this can be your one-and-done palette or blend shades and finishes for glowy, elegant and effortlessly flattering looks. Bonus: it's practically foolproof.

Image: Supplied.

Mascara that stays put (no panda eyes).

Revlon All In Tubing Mascara, $25.95

With hooded, sagging eyes, I've never been a fan of tubing mascaras; they typically don't provide the volume or lift I need. While I love that they don't smudge, most fall flat on the drama. But the Revlon All In Tubing Mascara changed everything. THIS. DOES. BOTH. It delivers bold, lifted, curled lashes with real volume, enough to open up hooded eyes beautifully.

It's hands down my favourite tubing mascara, and honestly, might be my top mascara full stop. The fact that it also comes in brown? I grabbed that too, and I'm obsessed.

Image: Supplied.

The lip oil that feels like skincare.

L'Oréal Paris Plump Ambition Hyaluron Lip Oil, $29.99

This lip oil has quickly become my cold-weather go-to. It delivers juicy shine, a subtle colour wash, and deep hydration, all without stickiness. The gentle tingling is just enough to feel like it's working, but never irritating.

For lips over-50, it's a dream: it plumps without sting, smooths lip lines, and leaves your lips feeling plush and cushiony for hours, even after the shine fades. I love it so much, I now own six of the ten shades and wear one daily. Just pair it with a lip liner and you're done.  Effortless, polished, and perfectly hydrated.

Image: Supplied.

I'd love to hear what your go-to products are, especially the ones that make you feel like the best version of yourself. Share your favourites in the comments! Let's keep this age-positive beauty conversation going, and if you want to see me putting these products into practice, you can check it out here.

Love beauty that actually works? Here's more to explore:

• 'I'm an over-50s beauty writer. Here's the best budget skincare routine for menopausal skin.'

• 'I'm a 56-year-old model. Here's the skincare routine I swear by.'

• 'I'm a beauty writer in my 50s and this $18 makeup product has been a game-changer.'

Feature image: Supplied.