Frequently Asked Questions
Which foundation works best for mature skin?
Foundations that work best for mature skin tend to be hydrating and flexible, rather than drying or heavy. “Mature skin looks best in hydrating liquid, serum, or soft satin formulas that move with the skin,” says Breitweiser. “These finishes help minimize the look of fine lines and dryness instead of emphasizing them.” Powder foundations aren’t off-limits, but heavier powders can exaggerate texture; Breitweiser says she prefers “keeping the base creamy and using powder only where absolutely needed.”
Are drugstore foundations as good as luxury ones?
“Drugstore makeup has come a very long way,” says DeMann, noting that the gap between them and luxury formulas is much smaller than it used to be. Today’s drugstore options offer more realistic textures, broader shade ranges, and finishes that look like skin instead of makeup. “Many drugstore formulas build beautifully without caking, which is ideal for mature skin,” adds Breitweiser. And just like with pricier options, application matters: “Use thin layers with a brush or damp sponge to keep everything looking fresh and natural,” she says.
What foundation ingredients help with dry skin?
For dry skin, especially mature skin, look for foundations that include hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredients. “Many brands include moisturizing agents like niacinamide, oils, and hyaluronic acid,” which help keep the formula flexible and prevent it from clinging to dry patches, says DeMann. She says she prefers liquid formulas because “they move with the skin” instead of sitting on top of it. Ingredients like glycerin, squalane, and ceramides can also make a big difference in helping foundation glide on smoothly and stay comfortable throughout the day.
Meet the experts
How we test and review products
Before reviewing any makeup, we ask questions about a number of factors: What ingredients are in it? Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses? Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge? Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?
For our review of the best drugstore foundations, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, cosmetic chemists, and professional makeup artists to review the products. This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions. We considered each product’s performance across four primary categories: ingredients, wear and longevity, packaging, and inclusivity. For more on what’s involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
