The idea that your beauty routine should change with your age is nothing new the wording "formulated for mature skin" is often used alongside skincare and make-up products. But this somewhat vague designation begs the question: What exactly is "mature" skin, and at what age is your skin considered mature?
"Because it can refer to either a certain age or condition of the skin, it’s a bit of an ambiguous term,” explains Sarah Chapman, cosmetic scientist, skincare expert and founder of Skinesis. "If we’re looking for classic signs of a ‘mature’ complexion, it would be skin that’s showing visible signs of ageing—loss of volume and firmness, fine lines, wrinkles and signs of sun damage such as uneven pigmentation and collagen loss.” It’s also important to note that a variety of factors play a role in skin maturity, including genetics, ethnicity, overall health, and lifestyle choices like hydration, smoking, drinking, and sun exposure.
What Happens to Skin When We Age?
As we get older, our complexion decreases its production of sebum, oil and ceramides, which are essential to help strengthen the lipid barrier and retain moisture, keeping skin plump and firm. "Cell turnover also slows down from about every 14 days as infants to about 30 days in our 30s to 60+ days as we reach our 60s,” says Chapman.
"In fact, research suggests that by our early twenties, collagen production starts diminishing by 1% each year. Our collagen and elastin fibres become thicker and less taut, leading to slackening, a change in face shape, and a reduction in the youthful plumpness of the skin.” However it isn’t one size fits all, and someone in their 20s may show more signs of ageing than someone in their 40s, so it’s all about being in tune with your skin.
What to Look for in a Foundation for Mature Skin?
According to Chapman, you should look for make-up with good skincare ingredients. "Our skin can become increasingly dull and dehydrated as we age, so hydrators such as hyaluronic acid can help plump out fine lines and help keep your skin looking dewy and radiant throughout the day.” Chapman says it’s worth noting that although a foundation offering extra UV protection is always beneficial, never skip your dedicated SPF.
As for things to avoid? "I recommend avoiding retinol in a foundation and focusing instead on delivering high-quality actives through your skincare. Vitamin A can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays, so if you do go for a foundation containing retinol, it’s even more important to wear a high-protection SPF underneath.”
How to Apply Foundation on Mature Skin?
Working with the likes of Golda Rosheuvel, Sophie Okonedo and Priyanka Chopra, celebrity make-up artist Kenneth Soh has a few tricks up his sleeve when working with mature skin.
"See where you need foundation, be it to warm and even out skin tone or to provide a little coverage, then working with the principal that less is more, use only what you need, starting from the centre of the face, working outwards,” explains Soh. "Keep as little product as possible on areas where there are lines or creases. I often run a clean cotton bud over the areas with lines to help prevent any creasing or build-up of foundation.”
With all this in mind, it’s time to sit back and enjoy the best foundations for mature skin, with every skin type and finish in mind.
The Best Foundations for Mature Skin, As Told By an Editor
- Best All-Rounder: Armani Luminous Silk Foundation, £47
- Best Glow Giver: Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation, £39
- Best for Dry Skin: Tom Ford Shade Illuminate SPF 50, £130
- Best Budget Foundation: L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect BB Cream SPF 50, £12
- Best for Oily Skin: Clinique Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation, £39
- Best for Light-Medium Coverage: Jones Road What The Foundation, £44
- Best for Medium-Full Coverage: Shiseido Synchro Skin Radiant Lifting SPF30 Foundation, £47
- Best Matte Foundation: Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation, £41
1. Best All-Rounder: Armani Luminous Silk Foundation
Formula: Liquid
Number of shades: 36
Finish: Naturally luminous
Coverage: Medium
First launched in 2000, there’s a reason why Armani’s Luminous Silk Foundation has stood the test of time—and garnered a cult following along the way. In just a few pumps it makes light work of covering age spots, redness and blemishes without creasing in fine lines and wrinkles. See the Micro-Fil technology as the cherry-on-top, naturally brightening the complexion for a radiant and glowy finish. We have every expectation that it will still be sitting here triumphantly in another 20 years.
Pros
- Feels weightless
- Good shade range
- Doesn't settle in lines
- Radiant finish
Cons
- Expensive
2. Best Glow Giver: Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation
Formula: Liquid
Number of shades: 30
Finish: Glowy
Coverage: Medium
As we now know, hyaluronic acid is great to look for in a foundation for mature skin and with Charlotte’s magic formula the much-loved ingredient takes centre stage. Expect skin to remain moisturised and hydrated throughout the day, with the added rose complex blend targeting dullness, dryness, pigmentation and dark circles. For a super natural finish, use a blending sponge and gradually build onto the areas that need a little extra coverage.
Pros
- Hydrating formula
- Radiant, satin finish
Cons
- May not be best for oily skin
3. Best Gel Foundation: Chantecaille Future Skin Foundation
Formula: Gel
Number of shades: 15
Finish: Radiant
Coverage: Medium
An oil-free gel foundation with an ultra-lightweight texture and radiant finish. The buildable formula provides adjustable coverage and is enriched with soothing ingredients like aloe, chamomile and green tea to minimise redness and irritation. It’s also one of Soh’s go-to products when working with mature skin. "The gel texture is lovely and nourishing so it creates a beautifully hydrated base.”
Pros
- Lightweight
- Moisturising
Cons
- Jar packaging can be messy
- Expensive
4. Best for Dry Skin: Tom Ford Shade Illuminate SPF 50
Formula: Liquid
Number of shades: 39
Finish: Dewy
Coverage: Medium to full
Not only is hyaluronic acid on hand for dehydrated skin in need of a little TLC, you’ll also find a trio of natural oils including noni fruit extract—FYI Miranda Kerr drinks its juice every day for a youthful complexion. The medium-to-full coverage foundation blends into the skin like a dream and light-diffusing powders create the perfect radiant finish. So. Much. Yes.
Pros
- Blends effortlessly
- Luxury formula
Cons
- Much higher cost than others on this list
5. Best Budget Foundation: L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect BB Cream SPF 50
Formula: Liquid
Number of shades: 8
Finish: Slightly dewy
Coverage: Light/buildable
Beauty doesn’t need to break the bank, and here is a perfect example. It’s a great one for everyday wear as, much like skincare, it can be applied quickly and easily onto the face with your fingers in the morning or on the go. If you like natural-looking coverage with a slightly dewy finish, look no further.
Pros
- Affordable
- Dewy finish
Cons
- Often sold out
- Not the most luxurious packaging
6. Best Stick Foundation: Westman Atelier Vital Skin Foundation Stick
Formula: Stick
Number of shades: 20
Finish: Naturally radiant
Coverage: Buildable
World class makeup artist and founder Gucci Westman was inspired by what she was looking for and couldn’t find in a foundation when developing this product. As a rosacea sufferer, it was important for skin soothing ingredients, such as coconut oil and camellia seed oil, to feature in an easy-to-use creamy stick formula.
Pros
- Quick and easy to apply
- Blends effortlessly
Cons
- Higher price point than others
- Can cling to dry patches on very dry skin
7. Best for Oily Skin: Clinique Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation
Formula: Serum
Number of shades: 42
Finish: Satin matte
Coverage: Full
Salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid and three types of vitamin C work to reduce dark spots, discolouration, age spots, and blemish marks every time you wear Clinique’s clever concoction. For those with oily skin on the lookout for a full coverage foundation that will not budge, you’ve just met your match.
Pros
- Great for breakout-prone skin
- Full coverage
Cons
- May not be best for dry skin, or those who prefer a dewy finish
8. Best Skincare/Makeup Hybrid: Sisley Sisleÿa Le Teint Anti-Ageing Foundation
Formula: Liquid
Number of shades: 20
Finish: Luminous
Coverage: Light
Skin loving ingredients like soy peptide, white willow extracts, chlorella and cherry blossom are at the helm of Sisley’s light-coverage foundation. The super moisturising blend softens lines and wrinkles while boosting skin's natural radiance and firmness—prepare for the onslaught of compliments.
Pros
- Skincare boosted formula
- Moisturising
- Luxurious formula with skincare ingredients
Cons
- Expensive price tag
9. Best Radiance Booster: NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Foundation
Formula: Liquid
Number of shades: 36
Finish: Natural
Coverage: Medium
This foundation is loved by all ages and skin types for good reason. Infused with biomimetic oat, milk thistle and cacao peptides to defend against pollution and blue light, the buildable formula seeks to improve the general appearance of skin, even after it’s removed. The light-reflecting technology is just the ticket for giving the skin a healthy and natural allover radiance.
Pros
- Extensive shade range
- Naturally radiant finish
Cons
- Need to build up for full coverage
10. Best for Light-Medium Coverage: Jones Road What The Foundation
Formula: Balm
Number of shades: 16
Finish: Seamless
Coverage: Light to medium
Anything world renowned make-up artist Bobbi Brown touches turns to gold, and the foundation from her newest venture Jones Road is no different. Ingredients like jojoba oil and sodium hyaluronate play their part in plumping and hydrating the complexion while the buildable light-medium coverage gives a your-skin-but-better finish.
Pros
- Hydrating formula
- Melts into the skin for a natural finish
Cons
- Packaging can be messy
11. Best for Medium-Full Coverage: Shiseido Synchro Skin Radiant Lifting SPF 30 Foundation
Formula: Liquid
Number of shades: 30
Finish: Radiant
Coverage: Medium to full
Featuring a blend of mandarin-peel extract, light-adjusting technology, luminous pearls, and microcrystals, this foundation refines skin texture, reduces the look of hyperpigmentation, and smooths fine lines. It’s also water-, transfer-, and crease-resistant making it the perfect pick for summer.
Pros
- Includes skincare benefits
- Radiant finish
- Blurs the skin
Cons
- Fragrance may irritate sensitive skin
12. Best Serum Foundation: ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 30
Formula: Serum
Number of shades: 30
Finish: Dewy
Coverage: Light
Hyaluronic acid and herbal squalane create a natural barrier that locks moisture into the skin while niacinamide brightens dark spots and smoothes fine lines. It feels exceptionally weightless on the skin so much so, you won’t even realise you’re wearing base make-up at all. For any areas that need a little extra coverage, go in with a slightly heavier duty concealer like the Ilia Beauty True Skin Serum Concealer.
Pros
- Feels weightless
- Offers a dewy finish
Cons
- Needs to be layered for more coverage
13. Best Matte Foundation: Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation
Formula: Liquid
Number of shades: 49
Finish: Matte
Coverage: Full
Matte foundations are harder to come by these days—current makeup trends are all about glow and radiance. However, if you have oily skin and are prone to shine, then a matte foundation is your best bet for keeping skin looking fresh and even all day long. This lightweight formula prevents shine without looking dry or cakey.
Pros
- Great for oily skin
- Matte finish
Cons
- Can emphasise dry patches
- Not for you if you prefer sheer coverage
14. Best For A Skin-Like Finish: Beauty Pie Everyday Great Skin Foundation
Price shown is members' price.
Formula: Liquid
Number of shades: 21
Finish: Natural
Coverage: Medium to full
Infused with high-tech micro-pearls, Beauty Pie's Everyday Great Skin Foundation is loved for its natural but radiant skin-like finish. Plus, the fact there are multiple shades and undertones makes it easier than ever to find the shade that actually suits your skin tone.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Good shade range
- Natural finish
Cons
- You need to be a member to access lower price
15. Best SPF Foundation: Lumene Vegan Collagen Serum in Foundation SPF 30
Formula: Liquid
Number of shades: 9
Finish: Luminous
Coverage: Light
Lumene's collagen infused foundation is a skin-care based formula that was created with the purpose of hydrating and smoothing the skin after continuous use. The SPF 30 will help protect your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays all year-round without feeling to heavy on the skin or clogging pores.
Pros
- Looks natural
Cons
- Limited shade range
16. Best Powder Foundation: Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Powder Foundation
Formula: Powder
Number of shades: 50
Finish: Natural matte
Coverage: Buildable (Light to Full)
You might think that mature skin would be incompatible with powder formulas, but there are currently loads of options on the market that don't dry out the skin or look cakey. One that every beauty-lover has been raving about lately is Fenty's soft matte powder foundation for its ability to keep the skin looking airbrushed without appearing dry or flaky. Not to mention the shade range is very impressive!
Pros
- Quick to apply
- Buildable coverage
- Ideal for combination or oily skin
Cons
- Can require reapplication
- May be too matte for dry skin
17. Best Hydrating Foundation: Dior Forever Skin Glow Foundation
Formula: Liquid
Number of shades: 43
Finish: Radiant
Coverage: Light to Medium
If you like a radiant finish, then you will love this foundation from Dior. The serum-like formula features an 86% skincare base to hydrate the skin and let it breathe. However, it still manages to deliver impressive coverage and will last you from morning till night.
Pros
- Hydrating formula
- Radiant finish
Cons
- Might not be the best for oily skin types
18. Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Foundation
Formula: Liquid
Number of shades: 43
Finish: Fresh and natural
Coverage: Buildable
Few foundations tick all of the boxes, but this one comes incredibly close. It's buildable, hydrating, looks natural (while still providing impressive coverage), and can double up as a concealer. In short, it's a makeup bag must-have, and so so easy to use and apply if you're a foundation newbie.
Pros
- Extensive shade range
- Mattifying formula
- Buildable coverage
Cons
- May not be suitable for those who prefer a radiant finish
How We Tested
We know that foundation is one of the most personal products in your makeup bag—especially when you're navigating the nuances of mature skin. To make sure every recommendation here truly delivers, we put each foundation through its paces on real skin, not just in swatches or studio lighting. Our editors and contributors (with skin ranging from dry to combination and ages spanning 30s to 60s) wore each formula in their daily lives, from school runs to Zoom calls to long dinners. We looked at coverage, blendability, finish, how it wore throughout the day, and—crucially—how it interacted with fine lines, dryness, or texture. If it creased, caked, or disappeared by lunch, it didn’t make the cut.
Why Trust Us
AtBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , we take beauty recommendations seriously. Our team includes seasoned beauty editors and writers with years of industry experience—not to mention a serious obsession with finding products that actually live up to the hype. We research ingredients, speak with dermatologists and makeup artists, and, most importantly, test everything ourselves. We don't just follow trends—we filter them through a lens of what works for real people with real skin concerns. If it's on this list, it's because we've genuinely tried it, loved it, and would happily recommend it to our mums, our best friends, and you.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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