13 Best Primers For Women Over 50 – 2023’s Top Picks
Cover the fine lines and wrinkles and give your skin a long-lasting smooth finish.
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Georgina Goetz is a professional MUA from Hamburg, Germany, with three years of experience. She started her career with an apprenticeship as a hairdresser at “Marc Gruenkemeyer and Stylists,” a salon specialized in curls and fine hair. ... more
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The 5th decade of your life brings wisdom and wrinkles – the former requires celebration, the latter makeup. The best face primers for over 50 years’ women become the MVP of your makeup kit at this point. Because this is the time when your skin needs some extra TLC as it starts to manifest your age. It gets dehydrated easily, fine lines and wrinkles start sprouting up, dark circles and blemishes make your skin look dull, and pores get even more clogged than it was. You need a lot of makeup to cover the freckles and scars, but it ends up giving you a cakey look. Regular beauty products become less effective at this point, and your skin starts to ask for some special care. But aging does not have to sound like a horror story. It is a beautiful process, and as for mature skin, there are products in place that can give you a flawless look, no matter your age.
Want to give your face an instant lift? Check our list below!
In This Article
Top 13 Best Primers For Women Over 50 – Our Picks For 2023
1. Best Anti-Aging Formula: Covergirl Simply Ageless Anti-Aging Foundation Primer
Image: Covergirl Let the almost-ordinary packaging of this product not deceive you, as this foundation primer for women over 50 is one the best ones available in the market. This fantastic primer, when applied as a base, helps in making your liquid foundation stay longer. This creamy primer penetrates the epidermis of the skin, keeping it nourished and hydrated while also fighting the signs of aging. It can also be used as a moisturizer for a radiant, dewy, and youthful look. A few pumps of this pore-filling primer will go a long way in keeping your face fresh for the whole day and gives a natural-looking finish.
Pros
- Affordable
- Cruelty-free
- Easy pump dispenser bottle
- Anti-aging properties
- Hides pores
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May not conceal very deep lines and wrinkles
Review: A user enthusiastically writes, “The Covergirl Simply Ageless Anti-aging Foundation Primer is my current go-to choice. It is moisturizing without a strong scent, making it ideal for regular use. It visibly blurs my pores and primes the skin flawlessly. It’s a must-have in my makeup collection.”
Quick Tip2. Best Dermatologically-Tested: Jane Iredale Smooth Affair Facial Primer And Brightener
Image: Jane Iredale As the name suggests, this primer is not just a base or a prep product; it also adds a radiant glow to your skin. Not only does it mask wrinkles, fine lines, pores, and dark spots, it also evens out skin tone. A helpful addition to your makeup routine, this primer helps in keeping your skin look firm and youthful with its anti-aging properties offered by the green and white tea extracts, and retains your healthy, natural glow with the help of grapefruit extracts. Just apply a pea-sized amount of this primer to bring back life to dull skin, and also marvel at how your makeup goes on easier with this product. If you want a detailed review of the product, make sure to take a look at this video.
Pros
- Subtle but pleasant fragrance
- Dermatologically-tested
- No parabens, sulfates, and phthalates
- Contains natural brightening ingredients
- Lightweight
- Smooth texture
Cons
- Expensive
- It takes some time to absorb
Review: According to a tester, “The Jane Iredale Smooth Affair Facial Primer And Brightener is ideal for mature skin. It not only moisturizes my skin but also offers a radiant glow. This primer goes on flawlessly and feels lightweight and pleasant on the skin.”
Pro Tip3. Best Powder-Gel Formula: DHC Velvet Skin Coat
Image: Dhc DHC Velvet Skin Coat is an antioxidant-rich mattifying face primer for mature skin that works wonders on the face. It helps blend out any imperfections on your face. It helps moisturize your face while preparing it for a smooth and flawless makeup application. This wrinkle-smoothing face primer also helps reduce pores so you can enjoy your day without constant touch-ups. It is infused with organic olive oil and silica, which helps protect your skin from environmental stressors while absorbing excess sweat and oil production. DHC Velvet Skin Coat can be applied to the face before your foundation or can be worn on its own for a matte look.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Colorant-free
- Lightweight
- Vegan
- Soft texture
- Non-greasy
- Reduces dryness
Cons
- Might cause breakouts
Review: A user shares her review saying, “This DHC primer has completely exceeded my expectations. It is great on my combination skin and leaves it feeling velvety smooth without drying it out or making it too oily. The Japanese product keeps my makeup looking flawless all day!”
Quick Tip4. Best Lightweight: Estee Lauder The Illuminator Radiant Perfecting Primer + Finisher
Image: Estee Lauder As smooth as silk or as smooth as a baby’s bottom, either way, this primer for women over 50, is as smooth as it can get. Enriched with the goodness of vitamin E, rice bran essence, and shea butter, this product leaves your skin feeling revitalized. Illuminate your face with this non-greasy primer, which adds a pale, pink glow to the skin. While covering all your wrinkles and pores. It helps blur out fine lines and enhances your makeup with its soft-matte texture. This lightweight face primer for over 50 is non-greasy, you won’t even feel like you have applied anything under your makeup.
Pros
- Can also be used as a highlighter
- Non-oily
- Rich with vitamins
- Lightweight
- Adds a subtle pink glow to the skin
- Glides over skin
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Not very hydrating
- Slightly expensive
Review: A reviewer happily states, “The Illuminator Primer + Finisher from Estee Lauder has pleasantly surprised me! The product not only creates a smooth canvas for my makeup but also works as an intense moisturizer. I am in awe of the brightening effect and subtle shine it adds to my mature skin.”
5. Best Anti-Inflammatory: Chantecaille Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Primer
Image: Chantecaille A face primer that also protects from the sun! We must be dreaming, or somehow, it appears that all our prayers have been answered. This primer may look small, but have no doubts that it packs quite a punch. Not only does it keep your makeup fresh all day long, this mattifying sunscreen cum primer offers ultimate anti-aging protection. This SPF-infused face primer for mature skin is packed with the lush goodness of cherry blossom, lemon balm, and white tea extract, this primer lends a soothing effect on the skin. Carnosine (a protein building block) present in this primer makes the skin firm and softens wrinkles.
Pros
- Contains highly effective SPF 45
- Lightweight
- Oil-free
- Contains soothing botanicals
- No parabens, phthalates, and sulfate
- Mineral-oil free
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Vegan
Cons
- May leave a white residue when used in excess
Review: According to a user, “The Chantecaille’s SPF 45 Primer serves as a protective sunscreen and a smooth primer for my foundation. Just a few drops of the product work wonders in my case. I adore the way the product feels on my skin. It is a must-have for people who wear makeup regularly.”
6. Best Non-Comedogenic: Clarins Paris Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch
What are the two most important things we look for when we select a makeup product, particularly a primer? Firstly, it has to make our skin feel instantly smooth, and secondly, it blurs imperfections on our face – this primer does both. It’s remarkably smooth, oil-free, and glides on effortlessly. It helps in concealing wrinkles and reduces the appearance of open pores vastly. This perfecting base cream can be used as a base before you apply foundation or as an instant lift-me-up for your dull skin. Once you have applied this primer, wait a few minutes before you put on your foundation for best results.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-oily
- Ideal for greasy and shiny skin
- Revitalizes dull skin
- Dermatologically-tested
- Tested by an ophthalmologist
- Nourishes and protects skin
Cons
- May not hide huge pores
- Slightly expensive
7. Best Cruelty-free: Tatcha The Silk Canvas Primer
Image: Tatcha A skin perfector that puts velvet to shame, Tatcha’s The Silk Canvas priming balm for women over 50, helps makeup glide on smoothly and keeps it fresh for long periods. It also benefits the skin by preventing clogged pores and breakouts. Why is this product such a hit among mature women across the world, one might ask? It not only helps makeup last longer, it also protects the skin by keeping makeup from clogging pores. With natural active ingredients like real silk, pink and gold pearl, and Tatcha’s very own anti-aging superfood trinity, this primer nourishes dull skin and minimizes the appearance of pores, wrinkles, and other imperfections. This makes it one of the best primers for aging skin.
Pros
- Protective priming balm
- Offers smoothing effect
- Attractive packaging
- Tested by a dermatologist
- Cruelty-free
- Doesn’t contain sulfate, parabens, and phthalates
- No mineral oil
- Non-irritating
- Anti-aging properties
Cons
- High-cost
- Some may find the texture slightly thick
Review: A reviewer opines, “The Tatcha The Silk Canvas Primer truly impresses me. The velvety consistency blends seamlessly, blurring my pores to perfection. This primer delivers a smooth base to my textured skin, concealing blemishes effortlessly. My makeup stays put even in humid conditions and keeps the look polished!”
8. Best Affordable: Revlon Photoready Perfecting Primer
Image: Revlon Let your face be the masterpiece that the whole world is waiting for with a little help from this perfecting primer by Revlon. Be not just photo-ready, but always ready with its high definition filter technology. The primer acts as a radiant and long-lasting canvas that reflects and diffuses light to lend you an enviable, airbrushed look. This pink-tinted formula also helps in brightening your skin tone and reduces the appearance of imperfections. For best results, start by applying the primer to the center of your face and blending it outwards.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Talc and fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Non-greasy
Cons
- It takes some time to absorb into the skin
- May not be suitable for extremely sensitive skin
Review: A user writes, “As someone who needs makeup to withstand a busy day, I can rely worry-free on the Revlon Photoready Perfecting Primer. It kept my makeup intact all day! It also minimized the need for frequent touch-ups. It does not feel sticky and works well on my skin in various climates.”
9. Best Translucent Formula: Benefit Cosmetics The Porefessional Pore Primer
Image: Benefit An excellent example for the saying, “great things come in small packages”, this amazing tube contains stuff that ‘perfect-skin’ dreams are made of. If you are looking for a primer that acts instantly to hide the appearance of large pores, this product fits the bill. For skin as smooth as butter, apply this lightweight formula and watch your fine lines and wrinkles vanish immediately. This translucent formula also contains vitamin E, which helps in protecting the skin. This long-lasting face primer for mature skin is suitable for all skin tones, this primer can be applied under or over your makeup.
Pros
- No-oil formula
- Complements all skin tones
- Translucent formula
- Long-lasting
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
Cons
- Some may find the texture to be a little runny
Review: A reviewer says, “I apply the Porefessional primer from Benefit Cosmetics on problem areas of my face. It works well under makeup and offers a smoother skin texture with a velvety finish. It elevates my makeup game, especially during longer-lasting occasions in the summer season.”
10. Best Silicone-Free: MILK Makeup Hydro Grip Primer
Image: Milk MILK Makeup’s Hydro Grip Primer helps you achieve a fresh, dewy look with an even skin texture that makes you look flawless with one application throughout the day. Infused with the goodness of blue agave extract, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and hemp seed extract, this hydrating primer makes your makeup stay for a long period of time while keeping your skin moisturized.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Gluten-free
- Lightweight
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Less quantity
- Expensive
Review: According to a user, “Trying out this Hydro Grip Primer from MILK Makeup’s was interesting, to say the least. Initially, it felt dry, but the second attempt worked wonders on my skin. The primer kept my makeup flawless throughout the day, even when I was sweating. It may not suit everyone, but it has made a difference for me.”
11. Best Fragrance-Free: Smashbox The Original Photo Finish Smooth And Blur Primer
Image: Smashbox It’s a pity that most women who enjoy makeup don’t realize the importance of what a great primer can do for them. Women with mature skin should invest in a good primer, much like this one from Smashbox. A Smashbox bestseller, this photo finish foundation primer is oil-free and settles on the skin as soon as it is applied. Transform your face into a beautiful, even surface with this transparent primer gel to blur out all flaws like deep lines, wrinkles, and large pores.
Pros
- Non-greasy
- No parabens and phthalates
- Fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
- Complements all skin types
- Vitamin A and E in the primer protects the skin
- Contains antioxidants which helps in fighting environmental pollutants and skin damage
Cons
- Some may find the texture a little thick
Review: A tester writes, “As someone with mature skin, finding a primer that enhances my foundation was essential. Smashbox Original Photo Finish Primer fills in fine lines and pores, leaving my skin smooth. It makes my makeup last all day, even in challenging weather conditions.”
12. Best Oil-free Formula: Lancome Perfecting Makeup Primer
Image: Lancome From the makers of some of the best makeup products in the world, comes another great innovation – the perfecting makeup primer. This oil-free formula not only creates a smooth canvas but also keeps the skin cool. This is one of the best radiance-boosting face primers for mature skin as it creates a long-lasting canvas for a refined look. As it is a transparent primer gel, it can be used on any skin tone. It’s so silky and glides on so effortlessly; one will forget that they have used any base for their product. It helps makeup stay on all day long without making it cakey on the wrinkles. A few pumps of this primer will go a long way in keeping your face fresh for the whole day. It gives you a natural-looking coverage.
Pros
- Oil-free formula
- Absorbs into the skin quickly
- Hides all wrinkles and pores
- Suitable for all skin tones
- No cakey appearance
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
- Expensive
Review: A reviewer opines, “This makeup primer by Lancome has a smooth texture. It offers a dewy sheen to my skin. I have been using the product for a very long time. It is pricey but the results are worth it.”
13. Best Moisturizing: Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Cream
Image: Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Cream Bobbi Brown products are loved all over the world by both amateur and professional makeup artists and deservedly so. They work like a charm and are made with lush, nourishing ingredients. This two-in-one moisturizing cream and primer is lightweight, controls oil, and preps your skin in seconds for the perfect makeup application. If your skin is thirsty, quench its thirst with this hydrating product enriched with mineral water and algae extracts. So, this hydrating face primer for mature skin will definitely not disappoint you.
Pros
- Contains mineral water and algae extracts
- Ultra-hydrating
- Moisturizing cream + primer duo
- Smooth application
- Non-oily, thereby suitable for oily skin
Cons
- Extremely high-cost
Review: A tester writes, “This Bobbi Brown face cream is ideal for my combination skin. I am in my late 50s and it effortlessly maintains a flawless look and It feels pleasant on my skin and works wonders during the winter season.”
[ Read – Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Cream Review ]
Georgina Goetz, a professional makeup artist says, “ Primers are a gift from the makeup gods if you know how to use one. A primer evens the skin and makes it look smooth. It can even give the impression that you are wearing a permanent blur filter. Some even have reflection pigments in them, which reflect the sunlight, making your face look smoother and glowing.” Let us take a look at some important factors you must consider before choosing a primer.
Why Do Women Over 50 Need A Primer
It is no secret that women over 50 have wrinkles and enlarged pores. While many women go makeup-free and flaunt their wrinkles, some like to keep them concealed. Foundations can go a long way in blurring the imperfections, but a blurring face primer for over 50 is also important as it sets the tone for the makeup. It helps the foundation glide on smoothly and also makes it last longer. Primers are specifically designed to make skin look smoother, minimize the appearance of wrinkles and pores, and also to hold makeup in place for hours. However, it has an added advantage for women over 50 (or even 40); it perks up the face instantly.
How To Choose A Face Primer For Women Over 50
- If you have oily skin, stick to an oil-free primer with a mattifying effect. A primer with silky powder will also help in absorbing excess oil.
- However, if you have dry skin, your best bet is to choose a gel-based or illuminating primer, which will keep your skin hydrated.
- For those of you who have combination skin, look for a primer that has light-reflecting properties as it adds a healthy glow to the skin.
Infographic: Primers For Mature Skin: Key Ingredients & How To Apply
If you want your makeup to last long, you must invest in a long-wearing, premium primer suitable for your skin. This becomes even more important when your skin becomes textured as you mature. The infographic below explains which ingredients to look out for if you are purchasing a primer for mature skin and how to correctly apply the primer before putting on other makeup products. Take a look! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
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The Bottom Line
Women over 50 need special care and love for their mature skin as there is no escape from fine lines and wrinkles. However, some love to flaunt their wrinkles, while some look to hide them. A good primer may not miraculously cover up your skin’s imperfections and offer a taut base within minutes, but they make a lot of difference. It also acts as a base for your foundation to sit well on your mature skin and provide a radiant look. Unlike regular primers, focus on primers that are paraben-free, non-greasy, hydrating, and non-comedogenic. Avoid primers that turn your skin sticky, and dry, and have a strong fragrance. Try the Covergirl Simply Ageless Anti-Aging Foundation Primer for its creamy and hydrating formula but if you have oily skin, the Estee Lauder The Illuminator Radiant Perfecting Primer + Finisher will be ideal. You can also try the Tatcha the Silk Canvas Primer to creat a smooth finish makeup.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Srijita De, the author of this article, is a makeup fanatic and admires providing research-backed articles for her readers. She conducts thorough research by browsing various product specifications of primers and analyzing the user feedback online to provide the curated list of the best face primer. These face primers keep your face fresh all day, provide good coverage, keep your skin hydrated and make you look youthful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do primers age your skin?
No, other factors like the environment, food habits, and metabolism among others make your skin age as you grow older, but a primer can help you conceal those imperfections.
Are primers good for mature skin?
Yes, not only does it mask fine lines, wrinkles, and open pores, it can also hydrate the skin.
Can primer be used everyday?
Yes, it can be used as a base for when you want to apply makeup, or just as a hydrating cream in itself.
What is the best face primer for wrinkles and pores?
The Jane Iredale Smooth Affair Facial Primer And Brightener, the Covergirl Simply Ageless Anti-Aging Foundation Primer, and the It Cosmetics No.50 Serum Collagen Veil Anti-Aging Primer are some of the best primers for wrinkles and pores. These products reduce the appearance of aging signs and offer youthful skin for a flawless makeup base.
Does primer go on before or after moisturizer?
A primer should ideally be applied after the moisturizer. This ensures your skin is well hydrated before the subsequent makeup products are applied.
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