16 Best Foundations for Mature Skin

Best Drugstore: No. 7 HydraLuminous AquaRelease Skin Perfector

Why it’s worth it: “I used to have a ‘no drugstore brand’ rule for mature skin, but so much has changed,” says Pilar DeMann, a Connecticut-based makeup artist. “A client of mine introduced me to this and now I have it in my kit and I use it on everyone. It’s sheer enough so you still see and feel the skin, but gives enough coverage so you can be photographed and still look great. It’s dewy and glides on. I just love it!” Closer to a skin tint than a traditional foundation, the product has a sheer, natural finish and offers variety: It can be used as a concealer, as an all-over skin tint, and can also act as a tinted moisturizer.

Editor’s tip: The brand recommends applying the product with your fingers to unlock the patented AquaRelease Moisture Beads that help hydrate the skin.

Key ingredients: AquaRelease Moisture Beads, ceramides, Pro B5 Vitamins | Finish: sheer | Shades: 6

Frequently Asked Questions

What to consider when looking for a foundation for mature skin

As you age, your complexion gains texture and leans on the drier side. New York City-based, board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, previously told Allure that this is because your skin produces less collagen and fewer natural lipids, such as ceramides and fatty acids, which leads to dehydrated skin and a weaker moisture barrier. When it comes to base makeup, “Fine or not-so-fine lines and larger pores can make foundation look mask-like at best and incredibly unflattering at worst,” explains Los Angeles-based makeup artist Fiona Stiles. That’s why finding a hydrating foundation is paramount for looking fresh. Trials recommend choosing liquid foundations as they “act more like a second skin.” Overall, finding a buildable-coverage formula with skin-plumping, fine-line-minimizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and squalane is the key to a flawless, crease-free base.

How to prep mature skin for foundation

Before you touch your makeup brushes, prepping your skin is essential for creating the smoothest finish possible. “Moisture is key, so always make sure you start with a moisturizer that’s hydrating but won’t turn greasy and interrupt your foundation texture,” Barose previously told Allure. Gucci Westman, the Los Angeles-based makeup artist and founder of Westman Atelier, also emphasized being vigilant about moisturizing your whole face, especially the area around your eyes.

How to apply foundation on mature skin

Tulve leans into the “less is more” philosophy when applying foundation to mature skin. Denser, full-coverage formulations may end up accentuating fine lines, so use a buildable formula you can layer to your desired finish for a seamless, second-skin-like result. “I apply foundation on the larger areas of the face first, like the cheeks and forehead, then I go in and tweak around the nose and the chin area,” makeup artist Sandy Linter previously told Allure. “Then lastly, I’ll apply concealer, plus maybe a touch of foundation under the eye area.”

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the right foundation for mature skin can be a challenge. However, by understanding what to look for in a foundation and how to properly prepare and apply it, you can achieve a smooth, even finish that enhances your natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What to consider when looking for a foundation for mature skin
• How to prep mature skin for foundation
• How to apply foundation on mature skin