Your skin changes as you get older. With that in mind, it’s probably a good idea to invest in a selection of makeup products specially formulated for mature skin, particularly your foundation.
But with so many options out there, how do you know which one suits your skin type?
To help you decide, we asked experts to recommend some of the best foundations for mature skin.
Table of Contents
- Giorgi Armani Luminous Silk Foundation
- Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation
- Cle de Peau Radiant Cream Foundation
- Jane Iredale Beyond Matte 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation
- Neutrogena’s Hydroboost Hydrating Tint
- Use a primer instead
- Consider a CC cream
- Clinique’s “Beyond Perfecting” Foundation + Concealer
- Opt for a tinted moisturizer
- Add a drop of rosehip oil
- Estee Lauder Perfectionist Youth-Infusing Makeup with Spf 25
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What type of coverage is best for mature skin?
- How can I choose the right foundation shade for my skin tone?
- Are there foundation ingredients that are especially beneficial for mature skin?
- Is using a separate primer with the foundation for mature skin necessary?
- Can foundation cause breakouts on mature skin?
- Can foundation address certain skin problems like dark spots or uneven skin tone?
- Is setting the foundation with powder for mature skin necessary?
- Is it necessary to use a separate moisturizer before applying foundation for mature skin?
- Can foundation be worn by mature skin with dry skin?
- Is using a separate setting spray with the foundation for mature skin necessary?
- Can foundation be worn on mature and sensitive skin?
- What is the best way to remove foundation from mature skin at the end of the day?
Mature skin typically needs a foundation with more moisture and hydration than youthful skin. Mature skin may also benefit from products that help to smooth fine lines and wrinkles and provide a subtle lift to the skin. Foundation for aging skin also should be smooth and not settle into facial lines.
Giorgi Armani Luminous Silk Foundation is a lightweight, smooth foundation that has a simple ingredient list and luxurious feel on the skin.
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation contains hyaluronic acid, which draws moisture into the skin while also providing a smooth finish.
Cle de Peau Radiant Cream Foundation
Cle de Peau Radiant Foundation is another hydrating foundation with a clean finish.
When most people get older, their skin loses moisture, hydration, and elasticity. So switching to cream makeup will look better on the skin. Finding a cream or liquid foundation that has a semi-matte formula is perfect because you can then eliminate powder, which can accentuate and settle into wrinkles and lines.
I love the new Jane Iredale Beyond Matte 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation. It contains Hyaluronic Acid which everyone needs to keep skin hydrated while offering buildable luminous coverage.
Erum Ilyas, MD, MBE, FAAD

Board-Certified Dermatologist, Montgomery Dermatology
I tend to find that there are several factors mature skin needs to take into consideration. The thinning of the skin can make it harder for the foundation to blend in. Fine lines and deeper wrinkles are ‘traps’ for the product to accumulate within. Keratoses and discoloration seem to call for more coverage at the risk of the foundation appearing ‘caked on’.
My recommendation here has been Neutrogena’s Hydroboost Hydrating Tint. I’ve been impressed with this product’s lightweight hydrating texture that allows for it to go on smoothly, provide coverage and look natural.
As a former makeup artist, I have used many types of foundations on hundreds of women. When it comes to mature skin, you want to specifically look for a foundation that is going to sit on top of the skin and not sink into pores and fine lines. I’ve seen a bad foundation make a 19-year-old look twenty years older, so don’t feel it’s all your fault if a foundation doesn’t look right.
Use a primer instead
If you’d like to stay with a more affordable foundation, you can always use a primer instead. Primer’s are often very affordable, easy, and quick to apply, and will give your skin that perfect, smooth base that your foundation will sit on top of.
Consider a CC cream
For foundation recommendations, consider a CC cream, which will also have skincare ingredients that will improve the texture and appearance of your skin over time, or a hydrating foundation that will keep skin moisturized.
Don’t be afraid to get samples from your local beauty store and try them for a few days. There is no one-size-fits-all foundation that is perfect for every person, so it may take a little time to find the right one for you.
Related: 16 Best Makeup Tips for Older Women
The formula is smooth and resists settling-in to fine lines even after a full day of wear. The finish is very natural, not tacky, and melts into the skin for a flawless finish.
The bottle has a super convenient wand applicator that can be used to swipe or dot on the skin, depending on how much coverage you’re looking for.
Work it into the skin with a brush or sponge blender – this product blends easily even with fingers, so don’t worry about buying tools. This formula is well-pigmented and doubles a concealer, so feel free to use the tip of the applicator to spot-conceal any troublesome areas and follow-up with a quick blend with your fingertips.
Pro tip: Steer clear of matte and shimmer formulas. Mattes will age the skin and give a lifeless appearance, and shimmers will accentuate any existing wrinkles.
Opt for a tinted moisturizer
For aging skin, a liquid foundation or a tinted moisturizer is best which will give you a dewy look without accentuating fine lines and wrinkles, unlike a powder foundation that will make it look more pronounced.
Add a drop of rosehip oil
I think the thing to understand about finding the best foundation for mature skin is knowing how mature skin has changed and how this affects your foundation.
What I experienced and see is that older women get foundation settling into their lines and wrinkles. While it’s good to be proud of all of the wrinkles we have earned, we certainly don’t want our makeup to look bad after taking the time to apply it.
The fact of the matter is that our skin gets drier as we get older. And this is what causes the foundation of any brand to settle in our pores and wrinkles. So I experimented with many different primers and many different foundations over the last couple of years.
And what works fabulously is to add a drop of rosehip oil to my face after my moisturizer and before my primer. This has made all of my foundations stay put and look fresh all day.
This innovative makeup foundation infused with antiaging serum. It also offers a long-lasting coverage that will help your skin look perfectly even and without blemishes. Additionally, it reduces the look of lines, nourishes the skin, and making it look hydrated and youthful.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of coverage is best for mature skin?
When it comes to coverage, mature skin types typically benefit from medium to full-coverage foundations, as they can help even out skin tone and conceal imperfections such as fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. However, choosing a foundation that looks natural and will not settle into lines or wrinkles is important. Choose a formula with a radiant or dewy finish, as this can give the skin a youthful and refreshed appearance.
How can I choose the right foundation shade for my skin tone?
Choosing the right foundation shade for skin tone is crucial for a natural and flawless look. The best way to find the perfect shade is to try a few shades on the side of your face near your jawline and choose the shade that blends seamlessly with your skin. It’s also important to consider your skin’s undertones, whether warm (yellow or golden), cool (pink or red), or neutral, and choose a foundation with a similar undertone to your skin.
Are there foundation ingredients that are especially beneficial for mature skin?
Certain ingredients in foundations can be especially beneficial for mature skin. Hyaluronic acid, retinol, and vitamin C are key ingredients to look out for. They can hydrate, firm, and brighten the skin. In addition, antioxidants like green tea and vitamin E can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. When buying a foundation, pay attention to the ingredients list and look for products that contain these skin-friendly ingredients.
Is using a separate primer with the foundation for mature skin necessary?
While using a primer is unnecessary, it can be helpful in your makeup routine if you have mature skin. Primers can help create a smooth base for your foundation, even out fine lines and wrinkles, and help your foundation to last longer. Look for primers that contain moisturizing and firming ingredients like hyaluronic acid and retinol, as these can help enhance your foundation’s benefits.
Can foundation cause breakouts on mature skin?
Foundation can sometimes cause breakouts on mature skin, especially if the formula is heavy and clogs pores. It is important to choose a foundation that is non-comedogenic, meaning it will not clog pores and is suitable for sensitive skin. If you have mature skin prone to breakouts, opt for a lightweight, oil-free formula that will not cause skin irritation or breakouts.
Can foundation address certain skin problems like dark spots or uneven skin tone?
A foundation can address specific skin concerns such as dark spots or uneven skin tone. Some foundations contain skin-lightening ingredients such as niacinamide and vitamin C, which can lighten the skin and reduce dark spots. In addition, foundations with medium to full coverage can help even out skin tone, conceal imperfections and give the skin a more uniform appearance.
Is setting the foundation with powder for mature skin necessary?
Whether or not the foundation needs to be set with powder is a personal preference and depends on your skin type and the foundation you are using. For mature skin, choosing a lightweight powder that will not settle into fine lines and wrinkles is important. If you have dry skin, you may prefer to avoid powder altogether or opt for a sheer, setting powder. This will set your foundation without further drying it out.
Is it necessary to use a separate moisturizer before applying foundation for mature skin?
Yes, a separate moisturizer must be used before applying foundation for mature skin, regardless of skin type. A good moisturizer will help hydrate the skin and provide a smooth base for the foundation. It will also help prevent the foundation from settling into fine lines and wrinkles. When choosing a moisturizer, choose a formula specially formulated for mature skin with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin E that can hydrate and protect the skin.
Can foundation be worn by mature skin with dry skin?
Yes, a foundation can be worn on mature skin with dry skin. When choosing a foundation for mature skin with dry skin, opt for a formula that contains hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin and has a radiant or dewy finish. Choosing a lightweight formula that blends easily and will not stick to dry patches is also essential. In addition, using a hydrating primer before the foundation can help create a smooth base for the foundation and enhance its effect.
Is using a separate setting spray with the foundation for mature skin necessary?
Whether or not to use a separate setting spray with foundation is a personal preference, but it can be a helpful step for mature skin. A good setting spray can help lock in the foundation and prevent it from sliding or settling into fine lines and wrinkles. When choosing a setting spray, choose a formula formulated for mature skin with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, which can hydrate and protect the skin.
Can foundation be worn on mature and sensitive skin?
Yes, a foundation can be worn by mature skin with sensitive skin, but choosing a gentle and suitable formula for sensitive skin is essential. When choosing a foundation for mature skin with sensitive skin, opt for a formula that is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and free of potentially irritating ingredients such as alcohol and parabens. It’s also essential to test any new foundation on the inside of your wrist before applying it to your face to ensure it will not cause irritation or breakouts.
What is the best way to remove foundation from mature skin at the end of the day?
The best way to remove foundation from mature skin is to use a gentle, non-irritating cleanser that effectively removes all traces of makeup without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Opt for a cleanser specially formulated for mature skin and contains ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, which can help hydrate and soothe the skin. Using a soft cloth or cotton pad saturated with a gentle makeup remover can help to effectively remove stubborn foundation without tugging or pulling on the skin.