Are you still using the same skincare today that you did 20 years ago? We’re pretty sure your answer is a firm ‘no’.

After all, our skin naturally changes as we get older. And for that exact reason, we need to update our makeup over time, too. So while the foundation you loved at 25 may not give you the same glow-up 20 or 30 years later, there’s a slew of fantastic options available when it comes to finding the best foundation for mature skin.

Quick Links:

Why Do I Need to Update My Foundation as I Age?
What is the Best Foundation for Mature Skin?
How to Find the Right Foundation Shade

A lot of women start to notice changes in their complexion around their mid-30s, which is around the time that skin begins to get thinner, losing its elasticity and collagen. Oil production also slows down as we age, which can leave our delicate facial skin drier and make fine lines and wrinkles more visible.

Cell turnover also slows as we get older, meaning our skin doesn’t repair and regenerate as fast or effectively as it once did. Throw that all together with the effects of a lifetime of UV damage under the harsh Australian sun (yes, even if you wear SPF!) — you can one day look in the mirror to suddenly find dull and uneven skin tone, sagging skin, and hyperpigmentation staring back at you.

But there’s no need to vow never to leave the house again, or cover yourself up from head-to-toe like Elaine Benes. Using the right skincare and foundation for mature skin can help minimise the appearance of lines and wrinkles, sallowness and uneven skin tone, and give you back your glow!

When you’re on the hunt for the best foundation for mature skin, you’ll want to find one that fits two criteria first and foremost: lightweight and hydrating.

Thicker, heavier foundations aren’t ideal for mature skin as they can settle into any creases on your face. As well as appearing cakey, this can often make wrinkles look more prominent and draw attention to these areas. A lightweight foundation will even out your skin tone without creasing, helping you achieve a glowy, fresh complexion at any age. 

If you do feel like you need a little more coverage, avoid turning to a thick formula. Instead, choose a lighter, buildable foundation that you can add to a little at a time until you achieve the coverage you’re looking for.

Foundations that are infused with skin-loving ingredients are also a winner for mature skin. These give you twice the bang for your buck, delivering anti-ageing benefits and even skin tone at the same time. For example, Innoxa’s Lift & Firm Foundation, features dill extract, which helps improve skin elasticity, and vitamin E, which enriches skin with moisture and antioxidants. 

What if you’re dealing with an extra dehydrated complexion? The best foundation for dry mature skin is one packed with nourishing, moisturising ingredients like vitamin E and orange oil — if that’s you, we recommend trying Innoxa Anti Ageing CC Cream). 

Keep in mind that if your skin is dry, no foundation will glide on seamlessly. This is where a primer can come in handy. Primers act as a smoothing base that you apply before foundation. This gives you a smoother canvas to work with and can provide additional skin-loving benefits depending on your individual needs. We love Innoxa Hydrating Primer, which is packed with hyaluronic acid and avocado oil to plump and infuse skin with moisture.

Pro tip: Avoid powder foundation for mature skin. Powders tend to accentuate deep lines and wrinkles — the opposite of what we’re trying to achieve!

It’s a good idea to consider the seasons (yes, really!) when choosing the right shade of foundation for mature skin. Australia is a country of many, many climates and you may very well find that the best shade is actually two shades! A slightly darker option for the summer months, when your skin inevitably takes on a golden glow, plus a lighter option for winter. 

Pro tip: Mix a little of each foundation for a custom hue during in-between months in spring and autumn.

While there are often few shades available in a BB (Beauty Balm) or CC (Colour Correction) cream, picking the right one is usually a little simpler, as the sheerer coverage they offer blends out to suit a wider variety of different skin tones.