The 10 Best Foundations For Mature Skin

Mature skin has its own specific set of concerns, meaning that when fine lines start to show, you might find your old faithful foundation just doesn’t cut the mustard anymore. But don't fret, as the solution is really simple: upgrade your base to a product that has been created with your skin type and skin tone in mind.

A formula that's suitable for dry complexions, lends skin a radiant glow and doesn't emphasise or settle into lines is the absolute Holy Grail. Thankfully, there are plenty of new formulas out there which combine skin-loving ingredients with a full-coverage finish.

To help you choose a foundation that caters to your mature skin concerns, we've quizzed Lancome's Make-up Artist, Shehla Shaikh...

When should you switch up your foundation?

‘Everyone’s skin ages at different times – if you’re finding your skin is feeling drier and fine lines are looking more visible, it’s a good time to take a look at your skincare routine and change your make-up accordingly,’ says Shaikh. There’s no hard and fast rules on when to swap your foundation, just go by how your current make-up feels and sits on the skin and then try a few different formulas to fine 'the one'. It's all about feeling comfortable.

SHOP: The Best Foundations For Mature Skin

What's the main thing to look for in a foundation for mature skin?

‘The key things you need to consider before choosing a foundation for mature skin are texture and coverage - anything too matte and full coverage will age the skin as it gives a flattening effect and emphasises fine lines and wrinkles. So it's important to use light-reflecting products with a dewy, fresh finish,’ says Shaikh. For this, steer clear of powder foundations and full coverage foundations, especially if your dry skinned. If you have oily skin, go for an oil-free foundation that will stay put all day.

Moisture-rich formulas harnessing hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid (and water-based foundation) work well for mature skin, Try using CC Cream as a moisturiser and foundation to balance and brighten the complexion, giving a lifting effect. We love Chanel's Super Active Complete Correction SPF 50, £48 and It Cosmetics CC cream, £32, for a radiant finish.

What's the best way to prep mature skin before applying foundation?

Ensuring that skin is hydrated and primed before applying foundation is a key step in any beauty routine, but it’s particularly important for mature complexions. 'Using a serum like Lancôme's Advanced Génifique Hydrating Face Serum, £59.50, under your moisturiser is a must – its anti-ageing benefits and luminosity really lift the complexion and helps the make-up glide on. I love to mix a drop of this with a liquid foundation,' Shaikh reveals.

What's the best way to apply foundation to mature skin?

'It’s important to strike a balance between a matte and dewy finish. Try using a fluffy brush with a liquid foundation and buffing it into the skin gradually - this will give you a seamless, flawless finish. And don't apply too much at once. My trick is to use Advanced Génefique Serum, £59, on clean skin followed by light-weight foundation. Use a little powder down the t-zone to seal any shine.' For touch-ups on the go, try a foundation stick - applying the coverage as and where you need it.

Face primers for mature skin

When it comes to mature skin, prepping the complexion before applying your foundation is key, making a primer an essential pre-make-up-step. We'd recommend a radiance-boosting formula that adds a subtle glow and blurs out imperfections, try Laura Mercier's Pure Canvas Illuminating Primer, £32, or Charlotte Tilbury's Wonderglow, £39.

So there you have it, everything you need to know about how to prep, prime and paint mature skin for that perfect radiant glow.

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