Choosing the right foundation often calls for an assessment of your skin type and its needs, which tend to evolve as we age. And if your former go-tos aren’t quite doing the job anymore, it may be time to change up your products. The best foundations for mature skin come with built-in skincare benefits, like hyaluronic acid to retain moisture or vitamin C to even out and brighten. Consider it a multitasking move that improves your complexion over time, so you need less concealing in the long run, which is always a good thing. (Our top picks in this category are the and our best drugstore foundation the .)
The best foundations for mature skin often feature additional skincare benefits for a healthy, ... [+]
“Radiant, vibrant, healthy glowing skin at every age should be everyone’s goal,” says celebrity makeup artist Jo Baker. Ahead, find the best foundations for aging skin, including a drugstore classic, a spot-correcting wonder and a versatile stick—plus expert tips on how to apply any formula for a radiant finish.
- Best Foundation Overall For Mature Skin:
- Best Long-Lasting Foundation For Mature Skin:
- Best Stick Foundation For Mature Skin:
- Best Drugstore Foundation For Mature Skin:
- Best Full-Coverage Foundation For Mature Skin:
- Best Clean Foundation For Mature Skin:
- Best Moisturizing Foundation For Mature Skin:
- Best Foundation For Dark Spots:
- Best Serum Foundation For Mature Skin:
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
As makeup-wearers and avid testers ourselves, the Forbes Vetted staffers who have written, edited and updated this list know what it takes to find the best foundations for every skin type and stage in life. Our senior beauty editor has swatched and tested countless complexion products and reports on some of her top picks for this story, and senior fashion editor has covered the beauty industry for 20-plus years. Having access to top professionals in the field, we also tapped two makeup artists and for their expert picks as well as best practices for achieving a radiant, flawless look at any age.
How We Chose The Best Foundations For Mature Skin
We’ve done our due diligence in researching ingredients used in the most effective foundations for mature skin. In our selection process, we dove deep into customer reviews and testimonials to include top-rated products within various categories. Our team also incorporated firsthand insights for their own recommendations. Lastly, makeup artists and provided expertise on application tips, trending products and top-of-the-line formulations.
What To Consider In Foundation For Mature Skin
Scibelli is an industry veteran who has contoured and highlighted some of Hollywood’s most famous faces, including Molly Sims and John Legend. Here, he shares his top tips on how to pick the right formula for your skin type.
Skin Type
Skin type is important to consider when choosing the best foundation for aging skin. For example, Scibelli says those with dry skin may need a formula with hydrating properties in a liquid or cream form, while oily skin types could opt out of the added moisture and choose a lightweight or powder consistency.
Finish
Foundation finish is the way the product appears when it dries down. It can range from dewy to matte to natural, and is typically a personal preference based on skin type. Scibelli does note that he typically does not use formulas that are shimmery or pearlized on mature skin. “It can settle into unwanted areas and actually accentuate fine lines and wrinkles,” he says.
SPF
Built-in sunscreen is important to protect against sun damage, of course, but also to prevent further breakdown of collagen in the skin as well as future sun spots. It’s still important to apply an additional sunscreen (before using foundation) to ensure you’re getting the full broad-spectrum protection.
Price
Foundations can be found at every price point. Pricier versions might have added skin-benefitting features or high-quality ingredients, but more affordable or drugstore options could also perform just as well.
Shade Range
Finding the right shade for your skin tone can involve a bit of trial and error. It’s ideal to know your general skin tone and undertones, which can vary from warm to cool to neutral. Fortunately, an increasing number of brands are featuring a wide range of shade options to make it easier to find the right fit for you.
What Kind Of Foundation Is Best For Aging Skin?
Creams, serums, sticks—many types of foundation work for mature skin (like our top pick the , which provides buildable coverage). The most important thing is that it blends in well so that it’s undetectable. Baker is partial to lightweight, oil-free foundations, which provide a modern no-makeup makeup finish. “You see your skin—but better. You want to enhance your complexion without masking your unique features,” she says. “This is ideal for more mature skin types that are looking for a radiant, smoothed complexion without the old-school weighty coverage.”
It also helps to apply with a light hand. “Oftentimes, heavier foundations can just make people look older than they are,” says Baker. “Instead, keep it light; keep it dewy.”
How Do You Keep Foundation From Settling Into Wrinkles?
First, prime your skin properly. “Choosing the right skincare is key. I have been using serums under makeup for normal to combination skin and skipping moisturizer, as it seems to be the perfect balance. But drier skin types can benefit hugely from the layering of skincare—especially during colder months,” says Baker.
Then, give your serums and moisturizers a few minutes to sink in. “You’ll be pleasantly surprised that your makeup will last longer,” finds Baker, who also recommends applying a primer to even out the surface and fill in any creases. “Sisley’s gel primer is an absolute go-to in my kit, as it creates an invisible mesh layer all over your face,” she says. “This step helps any base last longer and stay put with a flexibility and firmness you can’t get with a regular moisturizer.”
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