While 40 may be the new 30, it doesn't mean that worries about looking younger will wait another 10 years. If you're over 40 and look into the mirror wondering when you got to be so old, worry not. There are plenty of ways to look younger after 40.
Change your makeup routine. In your 30s you may have been able to get away with just a touch of makeup, but chances are your skin's needs have changed now that you're in your forties. Before applying makeup, use a moisturizer to make skin soft and supple and wait a bit before putting on the rest of your makeup.
Invest in a concealer to cover any flaws, from dreaded age spots to dark circles under the eyes. Use a medium coverage or light coverage foundation to help even out your complexion, without having the color sink into fine lines and wrinkles.
Avoid iridescent hues and shimmers when it comes to eye color and lipstick, as they can make you look older. Instead, go for a natural look using shades of gray and brown and skipping black, which can be too harsh and look like shadows under the eyes.
Also avoid colors that are too deep or light when it comes to lipstick. Lip liners can increase the look of wrinkles around the lips, so gently apply lipstick sans liner.
Nothing ages a person more than having yellow teeth. Avoid foods and drinks that stain teeth, like coffee, tea and wine. Some foods are natural whiteners, like strawberries and green tea. You may also want to talk to your dentist about whitening products, which can be done in office or at home. There are also many over-the-counter products that can help whiten as well.
While some women don't mind the "natural" look, the vast majority of women choose to use hair color to conceal the grays that appear with age. While it can be tempting to try something different, a funky hair color makes you look older, not younger. Going darker is also aging, as it can create shadows in the crevices of your face, making you look more wrinkled than you are. Instead, choose a shade only slightly lighter than your natural color and use both highlights and lowlights to make it appear as nuanced as natural hair.
While the toned bodies of celebrities over 40 may be inspiring, the vast majority of women must face the fact that their miniskirt days have come to an end. Choose clothing that is not only flattering, but also age appropriate to avoid looking like you are "trying." Wearing age appropriate clothing actually makes you look younger, rather than older.
