A good primer creates a smooth base, allowing for more seamless makeup application and all-day wear. The best primers for mature skin often include hydrating ingredients to soften the look of fine lines and plump the skin. After reviewing dozens of options from top beauty brands and getting firsthand recommendations from makeup artists, we selected the Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Hydrating Makeup Primer as the best makeup primer overall for mature skin, thanks to the hydrating ingredients and radiant finish. We also recommend the Maybelline Grippy Serum Primer for an affordable yet effective formula.
To narrow down the list of winners, we considered different skin types, ingredients, formulas and finishes. In particular, we prioritized versions with hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin and niacinamide. “As we age, we lose moisture in the skin,” says professional makeup artist Alexa Rae Johnson. “The most important thing for mature skin is for it to feel supple and hydrated before applying makeup to keep products from drying out, caking up and settling into fine lines and wrinkles.” Below, you’ll find all the best primers for mature skin, ranging from a drugstore bestseller to a lightweight formula with SPF.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
At Forbes Vetted, we’ve researched, written and published dozens of makeup stories. Our coverage includes roundups of the best dewy foundations, best foundations for combination skin and more.
- Author of this story Katherine Louie is a lifestyle commerce editor with over seven years of firsthand experience testing skincare, makeup, haircare and more. Some of her recent work includes the best moisturizers for aging skin and the Saie Supersuede Powder Blush review.
- Forbes Vetted deputy editor Jane Sung assigned and edited this story. She oversees the beauty, fashion and travel verticals for the site and has written about the best LED face masks and the best laser hair removal devices.
- Louie also gathered key insight and guidance from three professional makeup artists: Alexa Rae Johnson, Cat Mignano and Kelli Anne Sewell.
How We Chose The Best Primers For Mature Skin
To narrow down our options for the best primers for mature skin, our beauty team tapped into our market knowledge and extensive testing experience, highlighting products and brands that offer hydrating, effective formulas.
- We closely assessed the formulations and ingredients to evaluate those that work well with mature skin specifically.
- We analyzed the key ingredients in our top picks to ensure they cater to various skin concerns.
- The experts we spoke with made recommendations based on their professional experience, while customer reviews were examined for standout product traits. As everyone’s budget looks slightly different, we included a wide range of prices.
- All the products selected for this story were also reviewed and approved by Sung.
What To Consider In The Best Primers For Mature Skin
“When choosing a primer for mature skin, the goal is to smooth texture, blur fine lines and boost hydration,” says celebrity makeup artist Cat Mignano. As skin naturally loses moisture as we age, mature skin benefits from hydrating formulas, although it’s a good idea to consider your skin type first. According to the three makeup artists we tapped, here’s what else to consider before making a purchase.
Skin Type
As with most skincare products, it’s essential first to consider your skin type and any skin concerns you may have. While those with mature skin typically benefit from added hydration, those with oily or sensitive complexions might have slightly different needs. “Typically for mature skin, there is a need for a thicker, more hydrating sort of advanced cream,” says makeup artist Kelli Anne Sewell. “However, regardless of skin type, it’s important to support the skin barrier.”
Ingredients
Our experts agree that you should look for hydrating and soothing ingredients in a primer. “Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid for moisture, vitamin C for brightness, and peptides or niacinamide to help firm and support overall skin health,” says Mignano. All of the options we highlight in this guide help plump the skin and boost hydration, but in particular, we recommend the Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Hydrating Makeup Primer (our best overall pick) and the Nars Light Reflecting Hydrating Primer (our choice for the best hydrating primer).
Formula And Finish
The formula and finish largely depend on your personal preference, as some people prefer a more luminous, glowy finish while others prefer a natural finish. The Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Hydrating Makeup Primer has a radiant finish that gives your skin a lit-from-within glow, while the Benefit Porefessional Face Primer adds a more matte appearance.
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