I’ve been wearing daily makeup since I was 15, but the beauty routine I had as a teenager is far different from my current regimen at 43. As we age, our skincare practices have to change to address different concerns, from acne to clogged pores to fine lines and wrinkles. It’s a natural progression as we get older. Fighting against crepiness and loss of hydration is not limited to skincare products; you can also extend that care to cosmetics, as it has the power to enhance skin or leave it looking dry, dull, and cakey. Here’s a rundown of how best to utilize makeup on mature skin for a more youthful appearance.

First, what are the best foundations for maturing and aging skin? As with other skincare products, you want to pick a foundation with multifunctional properties, particularly formulas that promote hydration in addition to coverage and radiance. Ideally, you want immaculate coverage with a natural finish like a second skin — a big part of looking young and vibrant as we age is by avoiding heavy or cakey makeup. Think “less is more” when it comes to foundation. Look for lightweight formulas that focus on maintaining moisture, plumping, firming, and protecting from UV rays. Some ingredients to look for include hyaluronic acid, grapeseed oil, and vitamin E. If your skin is mature but still on the oily side, look for formulas that contain minerals such as mica or synthetic fluor phlogopite to help absorb excess shine and subtly blur pores. As for texture, go with a creamy or serum-like product, as these will appear more natural with a glowy finish rather than matte, which can exaggerate wrinkles and dry patches.

Once I hit 40, I personally found that drugstore cosmetics were no longer up to the task of what I needed from makeup. Of course, other people have different experiences and needs when it comes to the brands they prefer, but for me and my money, I’m willing to spend a bit more on foundation than what’s on offer from CVS and Rite Aid. However, when it comes to eyeliner, mascara, nail polish — the drugstore is my go-to.

A recently discovered brand, Jones Road, features What the Foundation tinted moisture balm. This creamy, skin-loving formula comes in 12 shades and boasts key ingredients like jojoba oil and sodium hyaluronate. This is best for light-to-medium coverage, is super hydrating, and works for all skin types.

I also really like this brand’s Miracle Balm, which can work as a blush, highlighter, or for an all-around glow. You can apply products with fingers or brushes for the best effect.

Another brand I’d highly recommend is Dr. Jart’s. I’ve used a variety of their products, both skincare and cosmetics and have been pleased with the results. Their Premium BB Tinted Moisturizer features niacinamide, which reduces redness and the appearance of fine lines, and comes in SPF 40 for sun protection. This is a great product for both face and neck for a natural finish.

Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint foundation also boasts niacinamide, as well as plant-based squalane that hydrates and is meant to visibly improve elasticity. The hydrating formula finishes super dewy and works with dry and combination skin. Full disclosure: I’ve not tried this foundation, but I’ve been using their Lip Wrap overnight treatment to soften and combat chapped lips here this winter, which gives me faith in this product line, which is a good guideline. If you find one item that works well, chances are other offerings from the same line will also suit your needs.

The foundation I’m currently using for in-person workdays when I’ll be seeing people (yes, you can have different makeup for different types of days; you can even have a hanging-at-home foundation) is Il Makiage’s Woke Up Like This foundation. This comes in up to 50 different shades and helps smooth and even the skin for a flawless natural finish. I wear this in combination with the Jones Road Miracle Balm mentioned above and MAC lipstick in “bated breath” for in-office work days.

When looking for the best foundation, if possible, hit up the makeup counter and swatch some products on the side of your cheek or the back of your hand to see what the finish actually looks like. If the formula doesn’t look nice on your hand, it will not look great on your face. For online purchases, a lot of brands will have quizzes to determine your best match and pictures to compare your skin tone to various models. Check the return policy and see if there are any free trial sizes to swatch test upon delivery. And while some of these brands can be pricey, many offer discounts with subscriptions. So, if you find you love a product and intend on using it again, sign up for the subscription for the discount.

Again, these are the products and brands I found that work best for me. You may have your go-to’s you already love. But if you’re looking to change things up, consider some of the points above. Next up, HOW to apply makeup for mature skin, in part 2.