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Plus, these days, powder foundation means more than a dusty sweep across your face.

Cosmetic items overlapping on a brown background. Center 2 makeup clamshell compacts. Sides black white and gold compacts.

Collage: Laneen Wells; Source images: Courtesy of brands

There’s nuance to texture and finish that’ll reel you in and make you a fan.

Skin that looks fresh and radiant for hours.

It works especially well for people with oily and acne-prone skin (shout out tomenopause-related skin changes).

Chanel Ultra Le Teint Ultrawear All-Day Comfort Flawless Finish Compact Foundation top view of a black compact of powder foundation with sponge applicator on light gray background

The formula imparts a satin-matte finish in 30 shades, so it’ll always be in our rotation.

The result is a smooth finish that won’t settle into fine lines.

“It’s also great for humid weather and oily skin types.”

Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Custom Finish Powder Foundation top view of a black compact of powder foundation with black flat sponge applicator on light gray background

How do I choose the best powder foundation for mature skin?

“The more silky the powder, the better it will work on mature skin.”

So, look for powder foundations that tout hydrating ingredients.

MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation in deep brown on light grey background

Ideally, you should swatch the formula on your skin to get an idea of the finish.

“Look for a formula that’s not completely matte,” says Nick Barose says.

What’s the best way to apply powder foundation on mature skin?

BareMinerals Matte Loose Powder Mineral Foundation SPF 15 top view of a jar of loose powder foundation with black cap ajar on light gray background

Applyingfoundation to mature skin, whatever the formula, should revolve around one thing: moisture.

Black recommends looking for aprimer for mature skinwith a semi-matte finish.

Next up is concealer.

Make Up For Ever HD Skin Matte Velvet Powder Foundation black and brown compact of powder foundation on its side on light gray background

Since these are typically liquids or creams, they should be applied before any powder.

(Using a dry sponge, on the other hand, will scale down the coverage.)

When it comes time for touch-ups, don’t always reach for the compact, according to Barose.

Maybelline New York Super Stay 24HR Hybrid Powder-Foundation component with silver and black accents on a light gray background with red Allure Best of Beauty seal in the top right corner

Regular reapplication can make the powder too thick.

“Instead, opt for blotting paper to avoid powder build-up,” he says.

How do you avoid powder foundation settling into wrinkles?

One/Size by Patrick Starrr Turn Up The Base Versatile Powder Foundation shiny red compact of powder foundation on light gray background

Then, once youve finished applying your powder foundation, apply ahydrating mist.

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?

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Powder Foundation in white compact packaging on light gray background

Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge?

Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?

This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions.

For more on what’s involved in our reporting, check out our completereviews process and methodology page.

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