Editor’s tip: If you want full coverage, use a powder brush instead of the included sponge to apply.
Main 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 created with minimizing excess oil in mind. Helps reduce shine and blur pores. This IT cosmetic formula features a lineup of powerful skin care ingredients including hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed collagen, peptides, and antioxidants like niacinamide and vitamin C to help brighten your skin. -Stop. Another bonus: Celebration Full Coverage Powder Foundation is talc-free (which gives the formula a silky feel, but can make it look powdery) and adds a glow to your skin.
Editor’s tip: There are only seven shades, so depending on your skin tone, it may be a hard sell.
Main 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 your skin look professionally airbrushed and feels just as lightweight. Available in 20 shades, L’Oréal Paris’ oil-free Infallible 24HR Fresh Wear Foundation in a Powder is perfect for people with combination skin, as it won’t crease, set in wrinkles, or clog pores. Plus, it’s heat resistant, so you can use it in warm weather without it clumping or feeling heavy, and it comes with a flat sponge applicator designed for more versatility.
Editor’s tip: This drugstore powder gives a natural finish when used dry, but like Black said, dampening the sponge first gives full coverage.
Main ingredients: Silica, dimethicone | Available shades: 20
FAQ
How do I find the best powder foundation for mature skin?
Powders aren’t Black’s first choice for adult skin that tends to be dry, but “there are some newer formulas that have moisturizing ingredients and a very fine texture,” she says. “The silkier the powder, the better it will work on mature skin.” Black is also a fan of his hybrid formulas that transform into a powder finish. This is because these formulas also tend to work more effectively on mature skin than traditional powders.
Ideally, you should be able to see the formula applied to your skin to get an idea of the outcome. “Look for a formula that isn’t completely matte” Makeup Artist nick burrows Say. “To get a healthy, bright glow with coverage, it needs to reflect a little bit of light.”
What is the best way to apply powder foundation on mature skin?
When applying foundation to mature skin, no matter the type of formula, it should focus on one thing: moisturizing. To do this, “start by prepping your skin with a generous moisturizer and leave it on for at least 10 minutes,” says Black. This method allows moisture to penetrate before applying the primer and reduces pilling. For black, we recommend looking for a primer for adult skin with a semi-matte finish.
