A Guide To Foundation For Mature Skin

Avoid Matte Formulas 

“As we age, our skin loses elasticity, which causes a lacklustre, dull appearance. Because of this, our base needs switching up accordingly and the older we get, the more we should focus on boosting radiance. You want a formula that’s not matte, as these tend to sink into and enhance existing fine lines. Look for lightweight textures that are described as ‘sheer’ and ‘hydrating’ – they act more like a tinted veil across your skin, creating an even canvas that looks fresh and youthful. The only exception to the matte rule is if you’re going through the menopause. At this stage in your life, look out for formulas that are ‘long-wear’. Many now come in a lighter consistency that’s full coverage, but not occlusive.” 

Practice Your Application 

“Knowing how to apply your foundation correctly yields youthful, fresh results. Often people assume that it should be applied all over and in turn, they go in heavy-handed with a thick layer that sits on the face like a mask. Before you do anything, take a real step back. Look at your face and figure out what areas need covering the most. Usually, it’s not the entire face, but specific areas only – the eyes, nose and chin are areas that have discoloration and uneven tone. The easiest way to apply base make-up gradually is with your fingers. The heat from your hands will help blend the product in. You can absolutely use a brush, just be sure to really buff so you get a seamless finish that’s not patchy. Begin with thin layers and apply a little bit more each time to the areas that need it most.”

Get To Know Your Undertones

“With a second lockdown upon us, it’s not always clear how mature skin types should shop for base make-up online. This comes down to knowing your shade and specific undertones. Before you start shopping, look at your skin in natural light – this will allow you to see whether you’re warm, cool or neutral. Put simply, if you have blue/purple veins your undertone is cool. If you have green veins and yellow, golden skin, your undertones are warm. Finally, if you’re neither or in between the two, you’re considered a neutral undertone. If that all sounds too complex, you’ll be pleased to know many beauty brands are also making it easier for you to decipher by introducing help tools on their website – use the process carefully, it’s so worthwhile. You can also visit shade finding sites, Findation.com and MatchMyMakeup.com to narrow the search.”

Remember It’s Trial & Error

“Those with mature skin often find their foundation starts pilling more. The answer to prevent this from happening is trial and error. First, hydration is key – the smoother and more moisturised your skin is, the less risk you run of your make-up not adhering properly. That being said, there isn’t one answer that will work for everyone and more often than not, the problem isn’t with your foundation alone. Look at your skincare regime – only you know the combination of products you use and the order in which they go. It’s important to switch this regime up, as often this will highlight where the problem is. Finally, never use too much of any product. Loading skincare and make-up on top of each other is never a good idea and will naturally cause products to roll and flake. Always start small and allow everything to dry before applying any new layers.”

Try To Double Up

“If you’re lucky enough to find a foundation that matches your skin perfectly all over, great! However, you should try having a couple of shades to hand to work with the different tones over your face. Ideally, you would have a slightly lighter shade for under your eyes and a darker tone for any patches and uneven tone. Don’t be afraid to mix and match tones and textures – your natural skin tone isn’t one shade, so blending colours together will always provide you with a more natural finish. If budget is an issue, tinted moisturisers are a great place to start, followed by a concealer that can provide more coverage where needed.”

Use Your Primer Sparingly

“Not everyone needs a primer, but mature skin types can benefit from using them. Their job is to fill the skin and smooth bumpy ridges so that anything applied on top looks even and lasts much longer. For that reason, they’re great if you’re suffering from hot flushes or red, blotchy skin as they prevent any make-up from sliding out of place. While a great tool, they should be used sparingly – often a little goes a long way – and only when really needed. Make sure you wait a full minute or two to allow your primer to completely dry before applying any base make-up. This will curb any pilling and, as a result, prevent patchiness occurring. Just like you would with foundation, it’s important to choose a formula that describes itself as ‘hydrating’ or ‘illuminating’ for a fresher finish.”

Get A Head Start

“While there are many hard-working foundations on the market, there are four worth recommending for mature skin. First, Clarins’ Everlasting Youth Fluid which is a great all-rounder – hydrating, sheer, buildable and available in numerous shades. Secondly, Armani’s Luminous Silk Foundation is a make-up artist favourite. It’s one of the best for blurring the skin, giving great coverage and offering radiance, too. Shiseido’s Synchro Skin is great for those going through the menopause. It has an in-built heat technology that adapts to your skin, plus it’s the perfect amount of matte, but with a glow-y dry down. Finally, Chanel’s new L’Essence de Teint couldn’t come more highly recommended. It’s expensive, but is a skincare-foundation hybrid with a plump, dewy texture that’s unbeatable.” 
  

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