As you get older, you need different qualities in your cosmetics. Mature skin is naturally drier and more matte, and fine lines become more pronounced. It’s vital to find cosmetics that work well with your skin as its needs change. Ageing is a natural process, but using products that brighten your complexion will keep you feeling gorgeous for years to come.
There are thousands of cosmetics brands out there, and it can be difficult to know where to start, especially if you've been using the same products for a long time. But don't fret – we've compiled a list of the best brands for older skin that work for every skin type and budget, so you can start 2022 looking your best.
Discover the best beauty brands, products, and essentials that will keep you looking your best no matter what.
1. Charlotte Tilbury
Charlotte Tilbury products are used by makeup artists everywhere, and once you’ve used them, you'll see why. There is a section on the website dedicated specifically to older women. This section features a range of foundations, moisturisers and cleansers which will leave your skin looking ten years younger. The products are designed to be moisturising and brightening, so they keep your skin healthy as well as flawless.
2. The Body Shop
The Body Shop is often overlooked as a beauty brand, but they have a lot to offer for older women. Their biggest strength is their skincare range. They have several oils, serums and concentrates that are perfect for revitalising ageing skin. They have many products infused with Vitamin E, which is a must-have hydrating sensitive skin. The Body Shop is also great at giving back to communities around the world and using sustainable materials, so you can feel great about where your money is going.
3. Bobbi Brown
Bobbi Brown is a brand you can definitely rely on to deliver high-quality products that will work for any skin. Their products focus more on natural beauty, so they tend to be more neutral-toned, making it great for upgrading your day-to-day look. Plus, if you want to improve your skills or cosmetics knowledge, they offer virtual consultations with a makeup artist who will give you tips and tricks tailored to you.
4. Dior
As you might expect, Dior's makeup line is upmarket. Still, if you're looking to invest in some top of the line cosmetics, Dior will undoubtedly deliver. That being said, don't judge before you take a look, because the price tag on their cosmetics is nothing like the price tag on their fashion lines. Their mascara is well-known as one of the best out there. For timeless classic looks like a perfect red lip, Dior is the place to go.
5. Maybelline
On the other end of the price spectrum, there’s Maybelline. If you want to grab great products at a bargain, give Maybelline a try. Their anti-ageing eye concealer is famously as good as similar products at triple the price. For skin products, their Fit Me range is fantastic for all ages, but its focus is on minimising pores which is especially good for older women.
6. Neutrogena
Neutrogena is predominantly known for their moisturisers and skincare products, but their makeup is equally as nourishing. They have a foundation with hyaluronic acid, which moisturises and plumps the skin at the same time. Neutrogena foundations tend to be lightweight and less full coverage, but they will even out your skin tone and leave you with a fresh, dewy look you'll love.
7. Estée Lauder
Estée Lauder has been a staple for older women for years, so if you haven't tried it yet, this is the time. Many of their foundations and concealers are SPF 25, so they'll protect you from sun damage to keep your skin healthy while also covering up blemishes. Their anti-ageing serums and repair creams are worth the price tag, and their makeup is no different. Their foundations tend to be much higher coverage, and they can cover up anything!
8. Elizabeth Arden
Elizabeth Arden is another beauty brand that has stood the test of time, perfecting their formulas through the years. While most of their products will serve you well, their lipsticks 100% deserve special mention. Whether you want a matte or gloss colour, all Elizabeth Arden lipsticks are incredibly moisturising. Many of them also have SPF protection to keep your lips feeling healthy wear after wear.
9. Fenty Beauty
Fenty Beauty has been making waves in the cosmetics industry since Rihanna launched it in 2017. The brand has been lauded for its inclusive range of shades and long-wear formulas. Fenty Beauty now has a sister brand, Fenty Skin so that you can get your makeup and skincare all in one place. Aside from its deservedly famous foundation, their highlighters are also not to be missed. Nothing makes skin look rejuvenated like a touch of glitter.
10. The Ordinary
The Ordinary is no ordinary cosmetics brand. They don't offer a full range of cosmetics as they focus on skincare. They sell foundations and primers with skincare at heart, making them an excellent choice for older skin. It's the coverage of a foundation with the nourishment of a serum. Their products look natural and come at a very reasonable price, so it's one to add to your list in 2022.
Katy Gilroy from The Lilac Scrapbook agreed with our recommendation of this brand. Katy told Age Times: "The Ordinary is a fantastic choice as the low cost and easy access - it's sold in various different places - mean you can try products without having to worry about where to get it from or spending a lot of money. With such a huge range of products for a variety of skin types, you're bound to find something which will fit right into your routine."
We also spoke to lifestyle blogger Amy Marshment, who gave Age Times a bonus recommendation. Amy said: "We all have individual skin needs no matter our age. We all go through different things, have different lifestyles, diets, and not forgetting budgets!
"However, one brand that I know is super effective, luxurious, and easy to use is Caudalie. Their premier cru range is second to none and an incredible all-rounder for anti-ageing."
