The 18 Best Foundations for Mature Skin, Tested & Reviewed
Choosing the right foundation is very important for mature skin. As we get older, our skin goes through changes that can make it more challenging to find the perfect makeup. Mature skin may become drier, show fine lines, or lose some elasticity. Using the right foundation can help make your skin look smoother and brighter, boosting your confidence
In this post, you’ll discover the best foundations for mature skin, including options specifically for those over 60. We will share product reviews to help you find the best full coverage foundation for mature skin and tips for choosing the right foundation for mature skin. You will also learn about the best makeup for mature skin, making it easier to look and feel your best!
2. Understanding Mature Skin
Characteristics of Mature Skin
Mature skin has several common features that make it different from younger skin. Here are some of the main characteristics:
- Dryness: As we age, our skin produces less natural oil, leading to dryness. This can make the skin look dull and emphasize fine lines.
- Fine Lines and Wrinkles: With time, fine lines and wrinkles often appear around the eyes, mouth, and forehead. These are natural signs of aging.
- Loss of Elasticity: Mature skin may lose its firmness and bounce, leading to sagging. This can affect how foundation sits on the skin.
- Uneven Skin Tone: Age spots and discoloration can develop, making the skin look uneven. This may require a foundation that provides good coverage.
Factors to Consider in Foundations
When looking for the best foundation for mature skin, there are important factors to keep in mind to ensure you choose the right product:
- Hydration: Look for foundations that provide hydration. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin help keep the skin moist and plump, which is especially important for mature skin.
- Coverage: Consider how much coverage you want. If you prefer a natural look, lighter coverage may be enough. However, if you need to cover more imperfections, the best full coverage foundation for mature skin can help even out your complexion.
- Ingredients: Choose foundations with nourishing ingredients. Avoid products with harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin. Opt for formulas that include antioxidants and soothing agents to help maintain skin health.
- Finish: The finish of the foundation matters. A dewy or satin finish can give a healthy glow, while a matte finish may highlight dryness. Choose what feels best for your skin type.
By keeping these characteristics and factors in mind, you can find the best foundation for mature skin, including options for those over 60. This will help you achieve a fresh and vibrant look while ensuring your skin stays healthy. Remember, the right foundation can make a big difference in how you feel about your makeup and your skin!
3. Key Ingredients for Mature Skin
Hydrating Ingredients
Hydrating ingredients are very important for mature skin. Here are some key ones to look for in foundations:
- Hyaluronic Acid: This ingredient helps keep your skin moist and plump. It can hold a lot of water, which makes your skin look smoother and more youthful.
- Glycerin: Glycerin is another great hydrator. It draws moisture from the air into your skin, helping to keep it soft and hydrated.
- Oils: Natural oils, like jojoba or argan oil, help nourish the skin. They can make dry skin feel softer and add a nice glow.
Anti-Aging Ingredients
Foundations with anti-aging ingredients can help improve the appearance of mature skin. The following are some healthy ingredients to look for:
- Peptides: The production of collagen, which keeps skin elastic and firm, can be increased with the aid of peptides. This can lessen the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines.
- Antioxidants: Antioxidants, such as green tea extract and vitamin C, shield your skin from harm brought on by free radicals. Additionally, they help improve the overall tone and brightness of your skin.
- Vitamin E: This vitamin is great for nourishing the skin and protecting it from environmental stressors. It helps keep skin healthy and can improve its texture.
Non-Comedogenic and Sensitive Skin Formulas
When choosing a foundation, it’s essential to pick one that is gentle on your skin. Here’s what to consider:
- Non-Comedogenic: This means the product won’t clog your pores. Clogged pores can lead to breakouts and other skin issues, which is especially important for mature skin.
- Sensitive Skin Formulas: If you have sensitive skin, look for foundations that are free from harsh chemicals and fragrances. Gentle formulas help avoid irritation and keep your skin comfortable.
By choosing foundations with these hydrating and anti-aging ingredients, as well as non-comedogenic formulas, you can support your skin’s health while enjoying beautiful makeup!
4. How to Choose the Right Foundation
Foundation Types
When it comes to foundations, there are several types to choose from, each with its own benefits. Here’s a quick overview:
- Liquid Foundation: This is the most common type. It can offer various coverage levels, from light to full. Liquid foundations are easy to blend and can give a natural finish.
- Cream Foundation: Cream foundations are thicker and provide more coverage than liquid. They are great for dry skin because they usually contain more moisturizing ingredients.
- Powder Foundation: Powder foundations are lightweight and provide a matte finish. They are ideal for oily skin and can be applied easily for touch-ups throughout the day.
- Stick Foundation: Stick foundations are compact and easy to apply. They provide good coverage and are convenient for travel. They can work well for all skin types, depending on the formula.
Finish Options
The finish of your foundation can greatly affect how your skin looks:
- Matte Finish: This finish gives a flat, shine-free look. It’s great for oily skin as it helps control excess shine. However, it can emphasize dryness or fine lines on mature skin.
- Dewy Finish: A dewy finish gives a radiant and healthy glow. This is often more flattering for mature skin, as it helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and dryness.
For mature skin, a dewy finish is usually more suitable because it adds moisture and luminosity, making the skin look fresh.
Application Tips
To achieve a smooth and even finish when applying foundation, follow these tips:
- Prep Your Skin: Start with a good moisturizer and primer to create a smooth base. This helps the foundation go on evenly.
- Use the Right Tool: Use a damp makeup sponge or a foundation brush to apply your foundation. A sponge can help create a natural finish, while a brush provides more coverage.
- Apply in Layers: Start with a small amount of foundation and build up coverage where needed. This prevents a heavy look and helps you avoid caking.
- Blend Well: Make sure to blend the foundation well, especially around the jawline and hairline, to avoid any harsh lines.
5. The 18 Best Foundations for Mature Skin
Here’s a list of the 18 best foundations for mature skin, along with their key features, pros and cons, best uses, price points, and where to buy them. This information will help you find the perfect foundation to enhance your skin’s natural beauty.
1. L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Radiant Serum Foundation
- Key Features: Provides medium coverage with a radiant finish. Infused with hydrating serum and antioxidants.
- Pros: Lightweight, moisturizing, good for dry skin, and brightens the complexion.
- Cons: May not provide full coverage for blemishes or deep wrinkles.
- Best For: Dry and normal skin types.
- Price Point: Approximately $15.
- Where to Buy: Available at drugstores and online retailers like Amazon.
2. IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream
- Key Features: Full coverage foundation with SPF 50. Contains anti-aging ingredients like peptides and vitamins.
- Pros: Provides sun protection, brightens skin, and offers a natural, dewy finish.
- Cons: Can feel heavy if too much is applied.
- Best For: All skin types, especially dry and sensitive skin.
- Price Point: Approximately $39.
- Where to Buy: Available at Ulta, Sephora, and online.
3. Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Foundation
- Key Features: Lightweight, medium coverage with a dewy finish. Contains hydrating ingredients.
- Pros: Affordable, blends easily, and gives a natural glow.
- Cons: May require setting powder for oily skin types.
- Best For: Normal to dry skin.
- Price Point: Approximately $8.
- Where to Buy: Available at drugstores and online.
4. NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation
- Key Features: Full coverage with a radiant finish. Contains skin-loving ingredients like raspberry, apple, and watermelon.
- Pros: Long-lasting, comfortable wear, and does not settle into fine lines.
- Cons: Higher price point.
- Best For: Combination and dry skin.
- Price Point: Approximately $49.
- Where to Buy: Available at Sephora and NARS’ official website.
5. Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup
- Key Features: Full coverage foundation with a matte finish. Long-wearing and waterproof.
- Pros: Excellent for covering imperfections, long-lasting, and does not transfer.
- Cons: May feel too heavy for some users.
- Best For: Oily skin and those needing long-lasting coverage.
- Price Point: Approximately $45.
- Where to Buy: Available at department stores and online.
6. Clinique Even Better Makeup
- Key Features: Medium to full coverage with a natural finish. Contains ingredients to improve skin tone.
- Pros: Good for sensitive skin, provides moisture, and evens skin tone over time.
- Cons: Limited shade range.
- Best For: Combination to dry skin.
- Price Point: Approximately $29.
- Where to Buy: Available at Clinique stores and online.
7. Revlon ColorStay Makeup
- Key Features: Full coverage foundation available in two formulas: one for normal/dry skin and one for oily skin.
- Pros: Long-lasting, affordable, and comes in a wide range of shades.
- Cons: Can feel thick on the skin.
- Best For: Oily skin (for the oily formula) and all-day wear.
- Price Point: Approximately $12.
- Where to Buy: Available at drugstores and online.
8. Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick
- Key Features: Creamy stick foundation with buildable coverage. Provides a natural finish.
- Pros: Easy to apply, great for touch-ups, and works well on-the-go.
- Cons: May not be suitable for very dry skin.
- Best For: All skin types, especially for those who prefer convenience.
- Price Point: Approximately $42.
- Where to Buy: Available at Sephora and Bobbi Brown’s official website.
9. Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation
- Key Features: Medium to full coverage foundation with a matte finish. Wide range of shades available.
- Pros: Good for oily skin, lightweight feel, and does not oxidize.
- Cons: May be too matte for dry skin types.
- Best For: Oily and combination skin.
- Price Point: Approximately $36.
- Where to Buy: Available at Sephora and Fenty Beauty’s website.
10. Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation
- Key Features: Full coverage with a matte finish. Contains skincare ingredients to help skin look smoother.
- Pros: Long-lasting, helps minimize the appearance of pores, and provides a flawless look.
- Cons: Higher price point.
- Best For: Oily skin and special occasions.
- Price Point: Approximately $44.
- Where to Buy: Available at Sephora and online.
11. CoverGirl Clean Matte Liquid Foundation
- Key Features: Lightweight liquid foundation with a matte finish. Designed for oily skin.
- Pros: Affordable, easy to apply, and minimizes shine.
- Cons: Limited coverage for very dark spots.
- Best For: Oily skin types.
- Price Point: Approximately $8.
- Where to Buy: Available at drugstores and online.
12. Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation
- Key Features: Medium to full coverage with a silky, luminous finish. Contains micro-fil technology for a lightweight feel.
- Pros: Excellent for creating a natural glow and feels luxurious on the skin.
- Cons: Expensive.
- Best For: Dry and normal skin.
- Price Point: Approximately $64.
- Where to Buy: Available at Sephora and Armani Beauty’s official website.
13. Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation
- Key Features: Full coverage foundation and concealer in one. Offers a matte finish.
- Pros: Affordable, versatile, and good for covering imperfections.
- Cons: Can be heavy if too much is applied.
- Best For: Oily and combination skin.
- Price Point: Approximately $10.
- Where to Buy: Available at drugstores and online.
14. bareMinerals Original Loose Powder Foundation
- Key Features: Lightweight mineral foundation with buildable coverage. Natural finish.
- Pros: Good for sensitive skin, looks natural, and is easy to apply.
- Cons: May not provide enough coverage for those with significant imperfections.
- Best For: Sensitive and oily skin.
- Price Point: Approximately $32.
- Where to Buy: Available at Sephora and bareMinerals’ official website.
15. Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Full Coverage Foundation
- Key Features: Full coverage with a matte finish. Infused with Amazonian clay for oil control.
- Pros: Long-lasting, good for controlling shine, and doesn’t settle into lines.
- Cons: Limited shade range.
- Best For: Oily and combination skin.
- Price Point: Approximately $39.
- Where to Buy: Available at Sephora and Tarte’s website.
16. Alima Pure Satin Matte Foundation
- Key Features: Loose powder foundation with a natural finish. Made with pure minerals.
- Pros: Lightweight, allows skin to breathe, and suitable for sensitive skin.
- Cons: Requires more application time to build coverage.
- Best For: Sensitive and normal skin.
- Price Point: Approximately $34.
- Where to Buy: Available at Alima Pure’s official website.
17. 15-Hour Wear Foundation by Smashbox Studio Skin
- Key Features: Medium to full coverage with a natural finish. Long-wearing and waterproof.
- Pros: Excellent for photos, doesn’t settle into fine lines, and controls oil.
- Cons: May feel heavy for some users.
- Best For: Oily and combination skin.
- Price Point: Approximately $36.
- Where to Buy: Available at Sephora and Smashbox’s official website.
18. Physicians Formula The Healthy Foundation
- Key Features: Lightweight foundation with a natural finish. Contains vitamins and antioxidants.
- Pros: Good for daily wear, hydrating, and promotes skin health.
- Cons: Limited coverage for significant blemishes.
- Best For: Normal to dry skin.
- Price Point: Approximately $14.
- Where to Buy: Available at drugstores and online.
Tips for Applying Foundation on Mature Skin
1. Prepping the Skin
- Importance of Skincare: Before applying foundation, it’s crucial to prepare your skin properly. Mature skin often needs extra hydration and nourishment. Here’s how to prep:
- Cleanse: To get rid of any contaminants, start with a mild cleanser.
- Moisturize: To hydrate your skin, use a high-quality moisturizer.
- Prime: Consider using a primer designed for mature skin. A good primer can smooth out fine lines and create a smooth base for your foundation.
2. Application Techniques
- Using a Damp Sponge vs. a Brush: The way you apply foundation can make a big difference:
- Damp Sponge: Using a damp makeup sponge can create a natural finish. It helps to blend the foundation seamlessly into your skin, giving you a dewy look.
- Foundation Brush: A brush can offer more coverage and a polished finish. If you prefer a brush, choose one with soft bristles to avoid dragging on your skin.
3. Setting the Foundation
- Recommended Setting Powders or Sprays: To help your foundation last longer, you may want to set it:
- Setting Powder: Look for a lightweight, translucent powder that won’t settle into fine lines. Applying it with a fluffy brush can keep your makeup looking fresh.
- Setting Spray: A hydrating setting spray can help lock in your foundation while adding a nice glow. This is especially helpful for mature skin that tends to be dry.
Conclusion
Selecting the ideal foundation for older skin is crucial if you want to bring out your inherent beauty. The right products and application techniques can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels.
We encourage you to try the recommended foundations from our list and find the one that works best for your unique skin type. Everyone’s skin is different, so it might take some experimentation to discover your perfect match