Sadly, also yes. Since our skin naturally becomes increasingly dry and dehydrated as we get older, a powder foundation only makes things worse. It settles into all of your fine lines, and the matte texture finish instantly ages you.
So at what age should YOU switch from powder to liquid makeup? I would say a good time to start using liquid foundation is at the point when your skin starts showing signs of aging (for most people, the age range is 35-40 years old).
Even the slightest signs of aging can be magnified with the wrong makeup, so if you'd like to see fewer crow's-feet or laugh lines, opt for a liquid foundation. “Powder can actually settle into wrinkles and accentuate them, but liquid products act like a filler for a smoother finish,” Bruzzesi says.
Roberts points out that powder foundation can "settle into fine lines and wrinkles, making them more visible and accentuating them," which will make your skin look older.
Of the 10 makeup mistakes that make you look older, going overboard on concealer is one of the most obvious—and also one of the most correctible! While many of us get through our 20s with just concealer, mascara, and lip gloss, that simply doesn't cut it later in life.
Look for non-matte products that do double, triple, even quadruple duty—say, by adding a dewy glow, intense moisture, sunscreen to ward off spots and wrinkles, retinol and even a filter-like finish. “Dewy foundations give you a more hydrated, youthful look than matte foundations,” says Duque.
Makeup artist Helena Olivares advises swapping vampy plum or brown tones for more neutral shades, as they can look a bit harsh on aging skin. Neutral tones and subtle pinks, she explains, can help you achieve a more youthful appearance, as they instantly give the skin a brighter and cleaner look.
Cream makeup tends to work better with mature skin for a number of reasons. The texture and moisture level of more mature skin is much more different than that of younger skin and therefore requires specialized products that take these factors into account.
Cornstarch and baby powder: Both absorb excess oil which gives you the matte flawless finish like a traditional translucent powder leaving the skin soft and smooth. Making them the perfect dupe for high-end translucent powders.
"Powder foundation is ideal for oily to combination skin types," Dalí notes, as powder helps to control shine and provides a matte finish. Powder foundation is also ideal for anyone who wants to wear matte makeup but desires a light finish that feels breathable on the skin.
Should Mature Skin Use Face Powder? Absolutely! There are several setting powders in the market by brands like Clinique, MAC, Dermablend, and more, for mature skin. With benefits like blurring fine lines, wrinkles, pores, and imperfections, these face powders are worth a try.
Like we mentioned above, if you have oily skin, powder foundation might be your best bet as they are excellent at absorbing and controlling excess oil. If you have combination skin, you can opt for liquid or powder, or both—try using powder foundation in oily areas and a liquid formula in other areas around your face.
What Does Powder Foundation Do? Powder foundation is a finely milled, pigmented powder that adds coverage to your skin with a lightweight finish. It tends to be a favorite among those who like a lightweight finish, have oily skin or want to be able to touch up their makeup throughout the day.
Disadvantages of Powder Foundation
Powder foundation is known for being harder to apply evenly and smoothly. It can often become patchy and look like it's caked on your face. If you're looking for a smooth, glowing finish, a powder foundation probably won't be able to achieve the look you're looking for.
Most people don't wear powder after foundation and still look flawless. The application matters however. You have to ensure that you start with a fine base and apply the foundation evenly. Some prefer dewy finish so applying a powder will not give that look.
For a fresh-faced and natural look, focus on the areas that the sun hits first (the same way you'd apply bronzer). Begin buffing the powder into your forehead, cheekbones, nose, jaw, and neck with firm but gentle circular motions. Blend it out a little and boom, done. For full coverage, you'll do the opposite.
Sprays are light formulas that usually leave no trace on the skin but set makeup just as efficiently as powders. If your skin ismature and dry, you should absolutely switch to a setting spray. The powder is really only suitable for mature skin that's still a touch oily.
Avoid Powder
Powder on mature skin can accentuate texture and dry out the skin even more. Many people use powder makeup to help their skin look more youthful. However, applying powder all over the face can actually age your skin faster.
“Retinol and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) can rejuvenate the skin and eliminate fine lines and wrinkles,” Dr. Patel says. “Hyaluronic acid helps your skin retain moisture, which gives it a smooth, glowing look.” Opt for serums and night creams with retinol and AHAs, and a daily face moisturizer with hyaluronic acid.
Using Foundation That's Too Light
Another side effect of collagen loss: Skin starts looking thinner and duller. (As always, lucky us.) If you move too far into the light foundation range (and away from your natural skin tone), things will start looking… pallid.
Retinoids and collagen-based skincare products are your secret weapon to keeping your skin looking young. Retinoid (or retinol) is a derivative of vitamin A that has anti-aging properties. It helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles and boosts collagen production (1).
Long hair can also make people look younger by providing a more youthful appearance. This is because longer locks tend to cover up wrinkles and age spots on the face, creating a smoother complexion that can give off an impression of youthfulness.