5 Top "Best of Everything After 50" Beauty Picks for 2013

A new year is here . . . the perfect opportunity to throw out the old and bring in the new (beauty products, that is!).  If you don't usually wear makeup, maybe it's time to harness the power of a few well chosen beauty products to brighten our faces and polish our looks. And, it's fun! Remember: embracing your age and wanting to feel pretty are NOT mutually exclusive.

To that end, I'm always on the lookout for the best beauty products out there that are really right for women over 50. Our goal is to have a fresh, modern face without spending a lot of money or time. And for sure, if you've been wearing the same makeup for the past 30 years, it's definitely time to start the new year off with some new products in your beauty bag to make you look fab. Every beauty product recommended below is well priced, easily available, and can be worn by a wide range of skin shades. On top of that, they are all products I tested for several weeks (or months) and have crowned them "keepers"! Even if you try these, keep this in mind: it's a big world out there filled with lots of products in all different price ranges. Experiment and have fun!

Here are my 5 top "Best of Everything After 50" beauty picks for 2013:

FOR YOUR FACE: 

Garnier Skin Renew Miracle Perfector B.B. Cream: 'Beauty Balms' or B.B.s as they are known, are the latest thing coming out of the beauty industry and this is one of the best. It's a moisturizer, foundation, sunscreen and skin perfector all rolled into one. It doesn't take much to give you nice coverage and a dewey--but not greasy--complexion. Under $12.00 at Ulta.com.

 

 

 

 

FOR YOUR CHEEKS:

Laura Geller Blush-n-Brighten in Pink Grapefruit: This is a universally flattering earthy pink that looks good on just about anyone. It has the right amount of pink, mauve and beige tones (and a little bit of shimmer to brighten our faces) to give cheeks a pretty glow. This has become my gold standard of blushes and has been a "best seller" on QVC for years. It's pricey, but worth it, especially because it lasts and lasts. Under $35 at laurageller.com.

 

 

 

FOR YOUR EYES:

Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner in Charcoal: I have tried every brand, from the most expensive to the least, and this is by far my favorite. The shade isn't too dark but still creates definition. And, true to its name, it really stays on. The best way to apply eyeliner is to simply follow the lash line. For us who are over 50, it's more flattering to apply a little more on the upper lash line, and very little (or none at all) on the lower. Under $5 at Target.com.

 

 

 

 

FOR YOUR LIPS:

L'Oreal Colour Riche Lipstick in Tender Pink: Once we're over 50, it's best to steer clear of lip colors that are too dark or bright. This is a very pretty shade of pink that stays on and keeps our lips moist. If you have trouble with lipsticks bleeding, or with colors fading too quickly, try using a lip-colored pencil first (but not one that is darker than your color, which is a very dated look). Under $10 at walgreens.com.

 

 

 

 

FOR TAKING IT ALL OFF: 

Albolene Moisturizing Cleanser: This has been around forever, and I've been using it for years. There is truly nothing more effective or better priced for removing makeup without clogging pores or irritating skin. Gently massage this cream all over your face, including your eyes to completely remove even the most waterproof mascara. The cream liquifies on the skin. Highly recommended. Under $8.00 at drugstore.com.

 

 

 

Have a beautiful New Year!!

Photo Credits: polyvore.com, qvc.com, drugstore.com, bellasugar.com