The best foundations for mature skin
When it comes to makeup, customisation is key. There are products specially designed for all shades, skin types, and sensitivities – but one category that can sometimes feel overlooked is makeup for mature skin.
Introduction to foundation for mature skin
Your skin changes as you get older, and so should your foundation. Not only can your skin texture change, but you’re also more likely to be dealing with dark spots, wrinkles, and fine lines. We’ve put together a handy guide to our best foundations for mature skin to make it easier to find the right products for your complexion.
Understanding mature skin
Skin evolves over time as part of the natural ageing process. This means that the makeup you wore in your 20s might not suit your over-40 skin.
Skin concerns in mature skin
As time wears on, collagen production slows down. This important protein is what keeps your complexion firm and plump, but we lose approximately 1.5% of natural collagen each year after the age of 20. While you may not notice the difference at first, over time this causes the skin to lose its bounce and elasticity. Fine lines and wrinkles become more prominent, and skin becomes drier and more prone to dehydration.
Additional age-related skin concerns include open pores, dullness, hyperpigmentation, and age spots.
How to choose foundation for mature skin
As with any makeup, mature skin foundation formulas will vary – so how can you choose the right fit? One key tip when comparing foundation for older skin is to look at it from a skincare perspective. You not only want a foundation that provides flawless coverage, but one that addresses skin concerns like dehydration, uneven tone, and dullness. Hydration should be top of the list. A good moisturising formula ensures the makeup blends into your skin for a silky finish without settling into fine lines.
Top recommendations: Best foundations for mature skin
Here are our top picks when looking for a flawless foundation, no matter your skin type.
Old price £41.00 New price £30.75
Best for all skin types: Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation
For skin that needs a delicate touch, a liquid foundation can provide smooth, all-over coverage without worrying about cakey powder. A smudge-free option is perfect for letting you get on with a busy lifestyle without stopping for reapplications (and to wipe makeup transfer off all your favourite tops!). Plus, it’s a buildable foundation, enabling you to achieve the coverage you desire.
Featuring hyaluronic acid, moringa, and Vitamin E, our Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation comes in a sweeping 45 shades so you can find the perfect pigment to match your skin. They’re all specially coated to maintain a consistent PH level with the skin, meaning the colour-match lasts all day long. Plus, our innovative Eternal Soft Polymer technology means that 24-hour coverage isn’t just effective but feels comfortable and increases the foundation’s staying power. A top tip for a glowing finish: mix a few drops of Advanced Génifique Serum in with this foundation and then apply.
Best for glowing skin: Teint Idole Ultra Wear Care & Glow Foundation
For days when you want a supercharged, healthy glow, opt for a medium coverage, buildable glow foundation that provides all-day hydration and highlights your skin’s natural radiance.
Our Teint Idole Ultra Wear Care & Glow Foundation features an 82% glow boosting skincare serum, powered by mandelic acid and hyaluronic acid for smoothing and hydration. Staying fresh all day without transferring, fading or settling, our Care and Glow Foundation is the perfect choice for a longwear, natural glow.
Old price £41.00 New price £30.75
Best for an extra touch of coverage: Teint Idole All Over Concealer
If you’re looking for a little extra coverage, or seeking to target a specific area, try our Teint Idole Ultra Wear All Over Concealer. Offering up to 24 hours of hydration, this skin-loving formula offers comfortable and breathable coverage – great for mature skin. You can use this all over your face, like a foundation, or apply it to specific areas to conceal discolouration or dark marks.
Application tips for mature skin
If you’re worried about foundation looking cakey or powdery on your skin, try applying it in lightweight, buildable layers with plenty of blending. Our step-by-step guide to foundation for mature skin makes it easy to achieve a soft and sophisticated look.
How to prepare mature skin before applying foundation
Getting the most out of your foundation starts with a smooth base. Prep your skin with extra protection from environmental stressors, like UV rays and pollution. Try Lancôme’s Advanced Génifique Serum to nourish skin with hydrating hyaluronic acid and natural pre- and pro-biotic extracts to target the signs of ageing. Follow your serum with one of our moisturisers for mature skin and your foundation will glide right on.
How to achieve a natural and youthful look
For a natural glow and youthful look, choose a mature skin foundation that matches your skin tone. This makes it easier to blend seamlessly into your skin. Apply in light layers using a brush, sponge, or even your fingers. By using a lighter touch during application, you’ll prevent the formula from settling into your fine lines and creases or looking too obvious.
How to address mature skin concerns
As we age, it’s important to switch up our skincare and makeup routines. The best foundation for mature skin often has a satin or light-reflecting pearlescent finish. This boosts your complexion’s radiance without drying it out. But if you like a classic matte look, opt for a hydrating formula. Consider adding a moisturising primer to your routine as well to keep skin looking smooth. Our Prep & Hydrate Illuminating Primer is a great pre-makeup choice for mature skin.
Additional skincare tips for mature skin
Mature skin needs a little extra support to tackle the common signs of ageing.
Importance of a skincare routine for old skin
From dryness to hyperpigmentation, older skin comes with unique challenges. A good skincare routine restores moisture and preps the skin for flawless makeup application. Yet even more importantly, it prevents further damage, protecting your skin from harmful environmental stressors.
Top anti-ageing ingredients to look for in skincare products
The anti-ageing skincare market can be overwhelming, with thousands of creams, serums, and masks promising to minimise fine lines, erase wrinkles and give you a boost of youthful radiance. But some really do make a difference!
Here are a few active ingredients that outperform others in clinical studies:
1.Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that helps your skin cells hold onto water for a plump, hydrated appearance.
2.Fatty acids support your skin’s outer layer while reducing inflammation and breakouts.
3.Amino acids stimulate collagen production to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce signs of sun damage.
4.Vitamin C restores brightness to dull or tired-looking skin.
Lifestyle factors that affect skin health
Many of us have a different skin age to our biological age. Factors that can lead to premature ageing include stress, smoking, a poor diet, and lack of sleep. But the biggest factor is sun damage. The sun’s UV rays damage your skin’s natural collagen and elastin, all while causing hyperpigmentation and blemishes. Want to fend off the signs of ageing? A good daily SPF is a must, which is why foundations for mature skin usually have this built right in.
Conclusion
As we age, our skin needs a little bit of extra TLC to naturally restore collagen, elastin, and moisture. The best foundations for mature skin are packed with hydrating ingredients for a balanced skin tone and confidence-boosting glow.
From weatherproof formulas to pearlescent finishes, there’s a foundation for all mature skin types in the Lancôme range. Pair with your favourite skincare products and a face full of confidence to complete the look! And, if you’re interested in a little more skincare advice, why not take a look at our top tips for youthful skin.
