The 9 Best Foundations and Moisturizers for Mature Skin, According to Celebrity Makeup Artists

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As we mature, finding makeup that enhances our natural beauty without emphasizing fine lines can feel like an uphill battle. We want smooth, radiant skin that also reflects the wisdom and confidence we’ve accumulated over the years. However, the array of anti-aging foundations and moisturizers at the drugstore and makeup counters often promise more than they can deliver.

That’s why we went straight to the celebrity makeup artist experts who work with A-list stars over 50. These are the pros that NFL superstar Tom Brady, iconic model and actress Brooke Shields, and songstress Michelle Williams trust to make them look camera-ready while still feeling comfortable in their skin. From skin-nourishing tinted moisturizers to rich creams that impart a lit-from-within glow, we asked them: what are your can’t-live-without products for mature complexions?

Read on for their recommendations on the best foundations and moisturizers for mature skin. Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or seeking effortless everyday radiance, these makeup artist-approved picks won’t let you down.

Related: The 6 Best Hairstyles for Women Over 50, According to Celebrity Stylists

What Foundations Do Makeup Artists Use on Mature Skin?

"The Nars Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation is one of my faves for mature skin," says Nyssa Green, a celebrity makeup artist who has worked with Brooke Shields and Tom Brady. "It's basically foundation that doubles as skin care. It diffuses imperfections and gives mature skin a dewy finish."

For a more budget-friendly option, Green recommends the Range Beauty Hydrating Foundation: "It's a lightweight formula that soothes and evens out skin and has a beautiful finish that doesn't settle into lines."

Related: 5 Essential Tips for Wearing Coats if You’re Over 50, According to Model and Style Mogul Molly Sims

Celebrity makeup artist Deida Massey, who has worked with Michelle Williams and Dr. Maya Angelou, also recommends ILIA's skin tint: "It provides light coverage, a mineral SPF and serum. It’s clinically proven to improve the look of dryness, blemishes, redness and wrinkles."

An affordable drugstore option she likes is the Everyday Great Skin Foundation from Wet n Wild: "This foundation is lightweight with medium to full coverage and covers age spots."

Related: The #1 Habit That Can Reduce Your Biological Age, According to a Geriatrician

What Is the Best Moisturizer for Mature Skin?

"I use Embryolisse Face & Body Cream because it provides the intense hydration that mature skin needs," says Green. "It feels luxurious and rich, but not greasy. It's affordable too!"

Another favorite is the Levels 2 Skin Moisturizer: "It has loads of botanicals and antioxidants that are so good for mature skin. It's a bit more expensive but a little goes a long way and it is worth it!"

Massey recommends Olay Regenerist Ultra Rich Face Moisturizer for Dry Skin: "It provides ultra rich moisture, especially during the winter months. It reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles. It is one of my favorite go-tos for my mature clientele."

Another affordable classic is Olay Regenerist Vitamin C Peptide 24 MAX Face Moisturizer: "It contains vitamin C which supports the skin's natural renewal process. It contains niacinamide to visibly improve wrinkles."

Sarah Egan, a celeb makeup artist who works with Amy Sedaris, shares that while she’s tried a lot of products, she keeps coming back to the reasonably-priced Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream. "It’s great for mature skin as it is a rich cream," she shares. "Due to its texture, I like to warm it up in my palms and gently pat it on rather than rub."

Should Mature Skin Use Primer Before Foundation?

"Primers can help seal in your skincare and help blur the face and hold makeup in place," advises Egan. "It’s not something you need to use every day, but if you are dressing up for a special event, I would include a primer." Egan likes Tatcha The Silk Canvas Primer because it "helps minimize wrinkles and works well with combination skin."

However, Green says that using a good moisturizer like the ones she suggests can eliminate the need for primer, which she shares can "weigh down mature skin."

Related: 6 Best Supplements for People Over 50

What Do Makeup Artists Use To Hide Wrinkles?

Egan shares a clever trick: "Take a very moisturizing product like a cream blush and top it with some eye cream on the highest point of the cheek near the crow’s feet. This keeps everything soft and keeps skin from creasing." Egan likes Hi Beautiful’s You BE YOU SKIN Skin Perfecting Tint.

Celebrity hair stylist and makeup artist Emilio Uribe, who works with stars like Beyoncé, Shakira and Anne Hathaway, also says hydration is key. "Start with well-hydrated skin—this seriously is my go-to ‘secret’ that is the key to having a smooth, wrinkle-free appearance."

He recommends Aqua by Jesse's organic makeup line, which he says contributes to a youthful appearance on mature skin by enhancing skin moisture. "Moisture is so essential, and often overlooked! Trust me when I say, this is crucial to having a youthful skin appearance."

A budget buy he likes is the $7 Maybelline Dream Radiant Liquid Hydrating Foundation.

There you have it—skincare secrets straight from the experts! Let your natural beauty shine through by using products that hydrate, nourish and gently even out your skin. With these celeb-approved foundations and moisturizers, your mature complexion will look flawless.

Next: 5 Essential Tips for Wearing Jeans if You’re Over 50, According to Model and Style Mogul Molly Sims

Sources

• Nyssa Green, celebrity makeup artist who has worked with Brooke Shields and Tom Brady

• Deida Massey, celebrity makeup artist who has worked with Michelle Williams and Dr. Maya Angelou

• Sarah Egan, a celeb makeup artist who works with Amy Sedaris

• Emilio Uribe, celebrity hairstylist and makeup artist who works with stars like Beyoncé, Shakira and Anne Hathaway