Editor Tip: If you do want sheer coverage, just apply it with a powder brush instead of the included sponge.
Key Ingredients: Squalane, apricot extract, rosemary extract | Available Shades: 17
Best Talc-Free Formula: IT Cosmetics Celebration Full Coverage Powder Foundation
Why It’s Worth It: Most powder foundations are built with minimizing excess oil in mind; they tamp down shine and help blur pores. What sets this IT Cosmetics formula apart is a lineup of powerful skin-care ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed collagen, peptides, and antioxidants like niacinamide and vitamin C, which help brighten skin — putting it among the best foundations for mature skin, full-stop. Another bonus: Celebration Full Coverage Powder Foundation is talc-free (which gives formulas a silky feel but can look chalky) and leaves skin with a radiant finish.
Editor Tip: It comes in only seven shades, which may be a tough sell for some skin tones.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide | Available Shades: 7
Best Non-Comedogenic: L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24HR Fresh Wear Foundation In A Powder
Why It’s Worth It: This TikTok-viral foundation makes skin look professionally airbrushed and feels just as lightweight, too. Available in 20 shades, L’Oréal Paris’s oil-free Infallible 24HR Fresh Wear Foundation In A Powder won’t crease, settle in wrinkles, or clog pores, making it a winner for those with combination skin. Plus, it’s heat-proof, so it can see you through the warmer months without caking up or feeling heavy, and comes with a flat sponge applicator designed to lend more versatility.
Editor Tip: When used dry, this drugstore powder lends a natural finish, but — as Black mentioned — dampening the sponge first will turn it up to full coverage.
Key Ingredients: Silica, dimethicone | Available Shades: 20
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the best powder foundation for mature skin?
While powders aren’t Black’s first choice for mature skin, which tends to be dry, “there are some new formulas that contain hydrating ingredients and very fine texture,” Black says. “The more silky the powder, the better it will work on mature skin.” Black is also a fan of hybrid formulas that transform into a powder finish, as these also tend to work better on mature skin than traditional powders.
Ideally, you should swatch the formula on your skin to get an idea of the finish. “Look for a formula that’s not completely matte,” makeup artist Nick Barose says. “It should reflect light a bit so you get that healthy, luminous glow along with the coverage.”
What’s the best way to apply powder foundation on mature skin?
Applying foundation to mature skin, whatever the type of formula, should revolve around one thing: moisture. To that end, “Start by prepping your skin with a heavy moisturizer and allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes,” says Black; this method allows the moisture to sink in before applying primer and prevents pilling. Black recommends looking for a primer for mature skin with a semi-matte finish.