8 Setting Powders for Mature Skin That Are the Perfect Final Step in Your Makeup Routine
And how to apply them so they won't emphasize wrinkles!
Powders have come a long way in recent years. No longer just a compact to pull out when you’re going to the restroom to “powder your nose,” today’s formulas are more innovative and versatile than ever. Gone are the chalky, dry finishes of formulas past. Powder, setting powders specifically, now come in a wide array of options that offer a litany of benefits when it comes to enhancing the overall look of your skin. The caveat: If you have more mature skin, it’s important to both choose — and use — setting powder strategically. So we asked top makeup artists to explain exactly what to look for in a best setting powder for mature skin along with their application tips and product picks.
What are the benefits of using a setting powder?
The name says it all. “Setting powder does exactly that — it sets your makeup to keep it in place and extend longevity throughout the day,” explains celebrity makeup artist Carly Giglio. And while mature skin tends to be drier, oily spots can still crop up. So a setting powder will help tamp down any unwanted shine, adds makeup artist and beauty expert Jenny Patinkin. Finally, many setting powders offer a blurring or soft-focus finish, which minimizes the look of imperfections and irregular skin texture on the face.
How to pick the right setting powder
The nice thing about picking a setting powder? There are tons of options to choose from. The challenging thing about picking a setting powder? There are tons of options to choose from.
1. Pick between pressed or loose setting powder
First, consider whether you want a pressed or loose version. According to Giglio, both are great for mature skin, but it’s more about considering your lifestyle and needs. Loose powders can sometimes be messier, although they do tend to make for more precise application. On the flip side, if you like to have a powder on-hand while you’re on the go, pressed versions are a good choice, she says.
2. Determine if you want additional coverage with your setting powder
Next, think about whether you want your powder to give you some extra coverage. If you’re just after the makeup setting benefits, translucent options are great. If you want the powder to bolster the coverage of your concealer and foundation, pick a tinted variety. Tinted powders are also choice for helping camouflage sun damage or neutralize redness, both of which can become more prominent as your skin ages, notes celebrity makeup artist Andrew Sotomayor.
If you’re choosing a tinted version, opt for a hue one to two shades lighter than your skin tone. “When powder interacts with moisture or oil on your skin it can sometimes turn a deeper color,” says Sotomayor. “Picking one that’s slightly lighter will counteract that issue and also brighten your complexion.”
Related: The 12 Best Foundations for Mature Skin That Will Cover + Repair Flaws
3. Look for skincare benefits + decide your finish of setting powder
It’s also best to seek out formulas with hydrating ingredients, an easy way to ensure the powder doesn’t end up looking chalky or dry on more mature skin, notes Patinkin. A few ingredients to look for are hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and niacinamide.
Finally, consider the finish of setting powder. Matte formulas are a good choice for absorbing unwanted sheen, ones labeled as “soft focus” tend to have a velvet-like finish and anything radiant or luminous will add extra glow to your skin.
How to use setting powder
Remember this overarching rule of thumb: Less is more, particularly when you’re trying to prevent powder from settling into fine lines. “The key to successful powder application on aging skin is to use as little as possible,” says Patinkin. The more you wear, the higher the likelihood it will settle into and accentuate wrinkles.
To help ensure you don’t go overboard with powder — no matter the type of powder or tool you’re using — start the application along your T-zone (forehead, nose and chin), which naturally tends to be oilier, says Giglio. This way the most product gets onto the area that needs it most. Dust any leftover onto other spots that may need it, like your cheeks.
Below, you’ll find the best tips for using loose and pressed setting powder.
How to apply loose setting powder
Apply loose formula with a large, fluffy brush. Although, you may also want have a small eyeshadow brush on-hand for more precise application in spots like under the eyes, Sotomayor notes. You can dip the brush into the powder, then tap off any excess back into the container, but Patinkin prefers another method. She advises pouring a small amount into the cap of the container, dip the brush in it, then rub the bristles on the back or palm of your hand. This gives you more control over how much product gets onto the brush and helps make sure the powder is evenly distributed before you apply it on your face, she explains.
Related: How to Bake Makeup Undereyes So Dark Circles and Fine Lines Disappear Fast
How to apply pressed setting powder
Apply pressed powders with a makeup sponge, preferably one that’s slightly damp. This both helps it better grab onto the powder and also adds a little moisture, notes Patinkin. Press, then roll the sponge, a technique that works the powder into the skin without removing the underlying makeup, explains Giglio.
For more setting powder application tips, check out this video from @StephanieMarie on YouTube.
Related: Dirty Sponges and Brushes Could Make You Sick — Here’s How to Clean Them
The best setting powders for mature skin
Keep scrolling to see the eight makeup-artist approved setting powders.
Best loose setting powder for mature skin
Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder (Buy from Ulta, $47)
Giglio lauds this formula for being extra finely-milled, which further minimizes the likelihood of it settling into fine lines. “It gives skin a smooth, soft-focus finish, while also helping absorb excess oil,” she adds. It’s also long-lasting with an impressive 16 hour wear-time.
Best pressed setting powder for mature skin
Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder (Buy from Sephora, $48)
Prefer a pressed powder? Giglio recommends this compact and loves the lightweight feel, airbrush effect and four shades that deliver medium coverage. Plus, it contains hydrating almond oil, making it a great option for drier, more mature skin.
Best translucent setting powder for mature skin
Ashunta Sheriff Beauty BlurEFX Powder (Buy from Ashunta Sheriff Beauty, $30)
This translucent pick comes in one shade that, according to Sotomayor, is a universal match. “It’s meant for all skin tones, leaving your complexion looking healthy and natural,” he says. The formula offers both oil control and blurs imperfections as well, all while increasing the staying power of your makeup in the process.
Best drugstore setting powder for mature skin
Wet n Wild Photo Focus Loose Setting Powder (Buy from Target, $6.69)
Here’s proof positive that you don’t have to shell out the big bucks for a great setting powder. Giglio likes this affordable pick, noting that it’s another great finely-milled choice that leaves your skin silky smooth, never cakey, and feels completely weightless.
Best splurge + color-correcting setting powder for mature skin
Givenchy Prisme Libre Loose Setting and Finishing Powder (Buy from Sephora, $60)
For a splurge-worthy powder that also quickly camouflages skin flaws, look no further than this option from Givenchy. It comes in 6 color ways that can be used to brighten skin, reduce redness, blurs skin texture and more. Patinkin is a fan, noting that each of the shades contains a mix of hues that help ensure it looks natural on skin. And the finely-milled formula ensures the powder won’t sink into fine lines or wrinkles, plus feels, “silky and luxurious,” adds Patinkin.
Best tinted setting powder for mature skin
Kosas Cloud Set Baked Setting & Smoothing Talc-Free Vegan Powder (Buy from Sephora, $35)
With an impressive lineup of 10 shades to choose from, it’s easy to find your perfect match in this powder. Giglio notes that these include flattering ones for all complexions and loves the texture, too. “It allows your skin to look and feel like skin.”
Best setting powder with skin benefits for mature skin
MOB Beauty Blurring Loose Setting Powder (Buy from Credo, $28)
This powder blurs the lines between skincare and makeup, which is part of what makes it one of Patinkin’s go-tos. More specifically, it contains ingredients such as hydrating hyaluronic acid and brightening niacinamide that help deliver long-term benefits while also instantaneously perfecting your complexion.
Best blurring setting powder for mature skin
Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Microfinishing Pressed Powder (Buy from Sephora, $39)
“This blurs, smooths and absorbs oil,” says Giglio of another one of her choices. What more could you ask for! It comes in a translucent version, as well as two different shades. Giglio notes that she regularly uses the ‘peach’ hue on darker and deeper complexions to enhance skin’s warmth.
For more of our favorite makeup finds, click through these stories:
8 Best Highlighters for Mature Skin That Will Get You Glowing, According to Makeup Pros
The 9 Best Makeup Products for Rosacea to Avoid Further Irritation and Inflammation
Celeb Makeup Artists: These Are the Best CC Creams for Even, Glowing Skin All Day
