Makeup after 50 can be hard. The same tricks that used to work at 30 (lots of powder, matte everything, a sharp contour) can settle into fine lines and make skin appear drier than it is. Not great. Such a good point. The good news? Just a few small adjustments can change how your face looks in natural light. Below, 70+ finds that embrace glow, and hydration and soft-focus finishes that are, uh, actually flattering.
But First, Here’s The 5 Makeup Habits That Age Your Face the Fastest After 50
Here’s the short and sweet before the recommendations. Most makeup mistakes after 50 aren’t trying to avoid wearing “too much” makeup. It’s using formulas and techniques suitable for younger, oilier, smoother skin.
1. Putting on too much powder can be helpful, however, using a lot of powder around the eye area, cheeks, and smile lines can make texture look more noticeable.
2. Going fully matte. Matte foundation, matte lips, matte powder, and matte eyeshadow. All can flatten features and cause the skin to appear dry.
3. Not doing skin prep. Foundation also looks older sitting on dehydrated skin. A hydrating serum, moisturizer, and SPF can help that same makeup look smoother.
4. Harsh contouring can create a downward drag effect. Softer bronzers and cream blushes tend to look more natural.
5. Wearing the wrong foundation formula After age 50, many women find that tinted moisturizers, serum foundations, BB creams, or other more flexible formulas that move with the skin may be more flattering.
Rather than attempting to "mask" the skin's aging, focus on softening, hydrating, brightening, and blurring. This is the reasoning for the products below, which emphasize glow and hydration, along with SPF, gentle retinol, and brightening serums, skin-like foundation, and creamier makeup textures.
1. A Mineral SPF 40 That Helps Repair Sun-Damaged Skin
EltaMD UV Restore Face Sunscreen
See price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Sun damage is the thing dermatologists warn us about the most, and it’s hard to pay attention to them while we’re outside and reapplying our drugstore SPF like, never. This one earns a spot on the shelf because it is great with sun protection, using broad spectrum zinc oxide and titanium dioxide particles. Then comes the supporting cast, formulated with squalane to soothe and moisture the skin; and ginger root extract coupled with isomerate saccharide to soften the appearance of dark spots and fine lines. And finally, to wrap it all up, it is dye and fragrance-free; and non-comedogenic (won’t block your pores).
2. A Resurfacing Cream With Eggplant Extract and CayCay Nut Oil
Sun Damage Repair and Resurfacing CreamSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Eggplant extract might sound like a weird smoothie ingredient but it has a lot of antioxidants, and combined with green tea, vitamin C, lactic acid, and CayCay nut oil, it's a great option! The cream applies easily and has a slight herbal scent that goes away really quickly. There won't be any more scooping with fingers into a container because this comes in a 2-ounce pump, so that’s really nice. You can even use it on your shoulders, your chest and even your hands. The all-natural, cruelty-free, and paraben-free ingredients help with any skin damage caused by bad SPF decisions.
3. Gentle Retinol Night Cream Softened With Bakuchiol for Sensitive Skin
Good Molecules Gentle Retinol CreamSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Hey guys, here's what to know about retinol. Most prescription-strength formulas make your face start flaking by day three, which, uh, kind of ruins the whole glow thing. This one keeps the active dose at 0.1% and combines it with bakuchiol, which is a plant-based ingredient that calms the irritation from retinol while still doing fine-line work. So you get the results but without the red cheeks. Fragrance free, vegan, pH of 6.
4. Turmeric and Kojic Acid Pads for Spots and Stressed Skin
medicube Toner Pads Kojic Acid Turmeric Clarifying (1 Pack)See price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Post-pimple skin is so annoying, the pimple goes away, but the dark mark stays for weeks. These pads target that annoying waiting game. Turmeric and kojic acid help to even out your skin, while glycolic acid and niacinamide help with texture and your pores. Basically, four ingredients are doing the job of several serums in just one swipe. It’s also smart to use them on your shoulders and upper back. Daily use is realistic with 70 pads per jar. These are great for anyone who is post-spot-treatment limbo who wants something more targeted than a basic toner.
5. Ceramide Body Cream That Calms Itch for 24 Hours
La Roche-Posay, Lipikar AP+Max Triple Repair MoisturizingSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Dermatologist-tested for babies 2 weeks and older, and approved by The National Eczema Association, the formula contains ceramides, shea butter, glycerin, and niacinamide to repair the skin barrier from damage due to winter, eczema, genetics, or anything else. It’s rich but not heavy, won’t take forever to absorb and won’t sit on top of your skin. Clinical studies show 72 hours of relief for dry skin and 48 hours of hydration. This 400 mL bottle is ideal for full body and post shower use.
6. Five Skincare Actives in One Lightweight Vitamin C Serum
TruSkin Vitamin C Super Serum for FaceSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Five actives in a single dropper sounds like it should irritate the skin, but somehow, it doesn't! Vitamin C provides the brightening, retinol provides the renewal, while niacinamide acts as a stabilizer; and all the while, oily moisturizing actives like hyaluronic acid and squalane cushion the whole operation. Not many serums contain rosehip oil and organic aloe, which is likely to contribute to the lack of sting. This serum is not a miracle, but it is a great option for those who wish to avoid layering 4 separate serums nightly. It does not replace a good routine, but it can replace multiple serums in the evening.
7. Retinol and Vitamin C Serum Aimed at Stubborn Dark Spots
Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Retinol + VitaminSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Neutrogena is the brand most dermatologists actually recommend, and this serum is why. It combines pure retinol (a vitamin A derivative that in the long run helps smooth out fine lines and fades discoloration) with vitamin C to tackle dullness. So, short and long game, covered. It’s free from mineral oils, dyes, and can be used daily. It is clinically proven to diminish the appearance of stubborn dark spots, which is the kind of claim that typically requires a prescription. Oh, and the price is surprisingly normal for what it does.
8. Kojic Acid Soap Bars Loaded With Vitamin C, Retinol, and Turmeric
VALITIC Kojic Acid Dark Spot Remover Soap (2 Pack)See price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Two bars for the job. Fade dark spots from your face, underarms, inner thighs, wherever else. With a formula inspired by the Japanese, we focus on kojic acid (the real hyperpigmentation hero) combined with turmeric, vitamin C, and retinol. The lather is yellow-gold, with a touch of earthiness from the actives, plus the rich creamy foam you'd expect from our shea butter and castile olive oil combo. It’s SLS-free & paraben-free, so you can use it every day, although a patch test is recommended for the retinol. Reviewers see changes within a few weeks. Two bars lasts longer than you'd think.
9. An After-Sun Lotion With Antioxidants and a Cool, Non-Sticky Finish
Eucerin Advanced Hydration After Sun LotionSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Sunburned skin usually has the same basic needs for the relief: They want something that will cool and soothe without stickiness or stinky perfume smells. They want a lotion to be hydrating but not frosting thick. This lotion meets their basic needs because it’s almost like putting water on your skin. The lotion has Licochalcone A and Glycyrrhetinic Acid which are both antioxidants that are studied to show that they calm irritated skin. Furthermore, it has shea butter and vitamin E. There are no parabens, no dyes, and no fragrances which is drama free. It is hypoallergenic, won’t clog your pores, and is safe for the face which not every lotion can say.
10. Hyaluronic Acid Serum That Hydrates Face and Body Both
Active Skin Repair FaceSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Most hydrating serums are in little one-ounce bottles which you can finish in a week. This one being five ounces is important because it is also formulated for body use as well as face. So, those annoying dry patches on your shins can now receive the same treatment as your cheeks. The hyaluronic acid holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, while ceramides and niacinamide do the real barrier work. No fragrance, no parabens, no sulfates, and is EWG certified. It has been dermatologist tested which is appreciated because, well, they went to school for that. It is also good for sensitive skin.
11. Snail Mucin Essence That Korean Skincare Fans Won’t Shut Up About
COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Repairing SerumSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
I know how snail mucin sounds, but this K-beauty OG is the TikTok dermatologists' favorite, and I understand why it’s been a best seller for so long. The mucin is 96.3% snail secretion filtrate which helps with dullness, dehydration, and fine lines that you're squinting at. They don’t warn you about how the texture is slimy and a bit stretchy like clear aloe vera. By Wednesday, your skin will look less tired because you layered it under your moisturizer. 100ml is a lot for the price.
12. High-Potency Tranexamic Acid Serum for Fading Old Breakout Marks
medicube TXA+Niacinamide 15% Glow Facial SerumSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Some people think all Korean skincare products have a layering system, however, this product simplifies the entire process into just one dropper. 5% tranexamic acid is used for the healing process after a breakout and is one of Medicube's highest formulation concentrations. Along with 10% niacinamide and 2% arbutin, those three working together create an amazing solution for skin brightness. In terms of the soothing process, both Panthenol and coral moss extract are used. After one use, clinical testing boasts a 15.6% increase in skin brightness, which is an odd number that you hope is real, and then check to see for yourself.
13. Three-Step Serum Set That Covers Morning, Night, and Hydration
TruSkin Face Serum TrioSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Three serums, three jobs, one box. For daytime glow, Vitamin C; for evening texture, retinol; for anytime hydration, hyaluronic acid. So basically, an entire anti-aging starter kit all at once. Each formula contains supporting ingredients that actually make sense: Vitamin E and aloe to calm, Cica to soften retinol’s edge. It’s unscented, paraben-free, cruelty-free, and made in the USA. Oh, and the price point is the real headline here. It’s a full routine for less than what one department-store serum usually runs. That’s kind of a big deal!
14. Peptide Night Cream That Works the Overnight Shift on Fine Lines
No7 Future Renew Damage Reversal Night CreamSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
While some night creams can be so heavy they can suffocate a pillow, others are so light they can make you forget to apply anything. However, this product have a decent middle ground of cream thickness and provides a soothing, non greasy texture. The peptides in this cream are supposed to target five signs of skin damage: fine lines, dullness, uneven skin texture, loss of firmness, and dryness. It is dermatologist approved and gentle to sensitive skin, which is important if you have a picky face. The No. 7 skin care brand is based in the UK and has been in business for 85 years, and they have definitely had enough time to perfect their products.
15. Cooling Gel Cream That Calms Sunburn With Marine Actives and Niacinamide
TERNS Mayday Intensive After Sun Gel CreamSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
This one’s for everyone who has gotten a little too crispy at the beach. It’s hard to relax and fall asleep at the end of the day in your warm, itchy, and tight pajamas. Our gel-cream formulation is fragrance-free and cools on contact, so your irritation and annoyance will be relieved almost instantly. Because we know the best part is the science, we add a patented marine bioactive blend, Sirenas Complex AQ, developed by a Scripps Institution of Oceanography professor, and combine that with niacinamide, squalane, and shea butter to strengthen your skin’s barrier. It’s safe for use on the face and body, so it’s perfect for all those sensitive skin types that can’t usually tolerate scented products.
16. Discoloration Serum That Fades Dark Spots With Niacinamide and Tranexamic Acid
Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting SerumSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Dark spots are really annoying. One of the most effective ingredients is cetyl tranexamate mesylate, which helps hyperpigmentation from acne scars and sun damage, along with the general unfairness of life. It also has 4% niacinamide, helping with pore size and dullness. You only need a few drops. It's also under $20, vegan, and alcohol and fragrance free. It feels suspiciously cheap, especially since some luxury brands charge 10 times that for similar active ingredients, and obviously some patience is required, but the formula is doing work.
17. A Fragrance-Free Body Lotion That Targets Crepey Skin With Omega Fatty Acids
Gold Bond Age Renew Crepe Corrector BodySee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Skin on upper arms, elbows, and knees can get crepey, and unfortunately most drugstore products don’t help. This product is an exception. It contains omega fat acids, antioxidants, and some plant ingredients that take time to help improve that crepey skin. They help over weeks as moisturizing ingredients do not help immediately. Since this product is fragrance free, it is ideal for daily use. It has been dermatologist tested so that is a plus if you have sensitive skin. With a 14 oz bottle, you can stick to a routine for a long time, and the hydration should last a full 24 hrs (which is still a good claim).
18. Sheet Masks That Flood Sunburned Skin With Collagen and Cucumber
Sunburnt UltraSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Let’s talk about sunburns. Even with a big floppy hat and sunscreen reapplication burn are still going to happen. These single-use sheets are for the aftermath of a sunburn and go beyond just another aloe product. The formula incorporates aloe, calendula, cucumber, marine collagen, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter. The sheet feels cold and slippery when you peel it from the packet which is definitely the sensation you want after pretending SPF 30 was sufficient all day. After 15 minutes, you lie down, look mildly terrifying, and get up with skin that no longer feels like parchment. Each pack comes with 4 which is great for multiple incidents, not that I know anything about that.
19. Hydroquinone-Free Dark Spot Serum With Tranexamic Acid and Vitamin C
MAREE Dark Spot RemoverSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Dermatologists keep mentioning tranexamic acid for melasma, and along with vitamin C and niacinamide, it's part of the brightening trifecta. Sorry, I get overly excited about skincare. I appreciate that the formula avoids hydroquinone, which makes it more considerate for daily use, and adds hyaluronic acid and panthenol to make sure your face doesn't feel like a chemistry experiment. My nose appreciates that it's fragrance-free too. You can use it on your hands and neck as well. It's a long process, but you’ll need some patience.
20. High-Strength Arbutin Cream That Pairs With Glutathione for Stubborn Pigmentation
TOSOWOONG Arbutin 7% + Tranexamic Acid 4%See price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Seven percent arbutin is a serious number. Most brightening creams hover around two. This one stacks it with 4% tranexamic acid, niacinamide, and glutathione, which is sort of like assembling the Avengers of hyperpigmentation. Sensitive skin types, take note: it's dermatologist-tested and skips artificial colors. (Patch test anyway. Always patch test.) Use it morning and night on dark spots, melasma leftovers, that one freckle that showed up after a beach weekend in 2019. Korean skincare does this kind of high-concentration, low-drama formulation better than almost anyone, and this is a pretty convincing case in point.
21. Clinical-Strength Serum That Targets Post-Acne Marks With Tranexamic Acid and Bakuchiol
Paula’s Choice CLINICAL Discoloration Repair Face SerumSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Three percent tranexamic acid, five percent niacinamide and a touch of bakuchiol just became an ingredient in a serum for a fade treatment that combats melasma, post-acne marks, and that mask-like discoloration that creeeps across your cheeks after a summer of forgetting SPF (guilty). This serum is also fragrance free, which I always appreciate. Paula's Choice is known for getting straight to the point and skipping the fluff in their products by disclosing the clinical percentages in each of their ingredients. As expected, this one sticks to the same reputation. Pigmentation doesn't go away overnight, and nothing does. But with consistent use over a few months is a where the payoff becomes more obvious.
22. Encapsulated Retinol Serum That Fades Sun Spots in Weeks
HANYWIL Dark Spot RemoverSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
The 2 percent encapsulated retinol is the real hero ingredient here. “Encapsulated” means it releases slowly, which means it’s less likely to cause the redness and peeling that occur with typical retinol products. Combine that with 5% niacinamide, a stable vitamin C derivative, and hyaluronic acid, and you have a formula that is working hard on post-acne marks, sun spots, and those pesky freckles that have overstayed their welcome. The brand notes that 4-6 weeks of using the product is necessary to see visible changes, which seems pretty realistic. Everything worth doing is just like those stubborn dark spots; it takes time and effort.
23. Peptide-Powered Moisturizer With SPF 25 That Wears Well Under Makeup
No7 Future Renew Damage Reversal Face CreamSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
With dry peptide technology, you get 3-in-1 benefits with SPF-25 and sun protection, hydration, and anti-aging peptides in one pump! I love fewer bottles taking up space in my bathroom, while still getting the same results. I appreciate the promise of visible results in firmness, brightness, elasticity, and dryness. With 85 years of history backing the claim, British pharmacy skincare has quietly excelled. The multitasker my bathroom shelf needed. It’s honestly kind of refreshing!
24. Whipped Beef Tallow Balm With Raw Honey for Dry, Mature Skin
Beef Tallow Honey BalmSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Using beef tallow for skincare might sound crazy, but there are some scientific reasons for this product. Consistency of tallow's fatty acids profile is similar to the fatty acids our skin secretes, and this is why our whipped butter tallow absorbs into the skin and does not sit on the surface like greasy products. The mousse-light whipped tallow feels melts on contact with the skin. We use organic raw honey to soothe the skin, Jojoba oil resembles skin sebum, and VItamin E adds skin protection through its antioxidant activity. There is no added fragrance, preservatives, etc. If your skin is feeling rougher or thinner and your lotion just slides off this is especially worth the try.
25. Niacinamide and Alpha-Arbitrin Serum That Works on Face and Body
EnaSkin Dark Spot Remover Face & BodySee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
This product contains five active ingredients: niacinamide, 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid, alpha arbutin, vitamin E, and tranexamic acid. That’s a lot going on in just one ounce. Arbutin and tranexamic acid are good to highlight for their synergistic effect on melanin production, which is beneficial if you are struggling with stubborn melasma or post-acne marks. The brand claims visible texture changes in 1-2 weeks and spot fading in 5-6 weeks, which is honestly more realistic than most claims. It is safe for sensitive skin, formulated without fragrance, and can be used on the body.
26. Drugstore SPF 25 Cream With Hexinol That Firms in Four Weeks
Neutrogena Triple Age Repair Face MoisturizerSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Sunscreen, Vitamin C, and anti-aging cream walk into a bathroom. Wait, not three different products, just one! This is a three-in-one product. It has SPF 25, Vitamin C to treat dark spots, and Neutrogena’s Hexinol which claims to increase firmness over a four week period. And don’t worry, it’s not thick and sticky. It has shea butter and glycerin to help it absorb into your skin. You can skip two steps and only do one in the morning. This is super helpful especially if you’re in a rush.
27. Hyaluronic Neck Cream That Targets the Crepey Décolletage Situation
Gold Bond Age Renew Neck & ChestSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Most people don’t think about including their neck and chest while applying lotions and creams, but they are just as important as the rest of the body, if not more! Moisture loss and sun damage love to take over these neglected areas. With a special combination of seven moisturizers and three vitamins for conditioning, hyaluronic acid is also used to draw moisture from the air while salicylic acid is used for gentle exfoliation. Gold Bond is not the most tasteful option, but neglecting your chest and neck until they get defiant is even worse. It is also unscented, hypoallergenic, and dermatology approved. 97% of testers in the brand study reported that their skin became smoother and more firm in only 2 weeks! For best results, apply the lotion twice daily using upward strokes.
28. Vitamin C Serum With a Gentler Form That Won’t Sting Sensitive Skin
TruSkin Vitamin C Serum for FaceSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
A lot of vitamin C serums start to oxidize as soon as you open them, and that beautiful golden liquid becomes a weak tea color. This one is different. It uses Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate which is a lot more stable than ascorbic acid and is also less likely to irritate sensitive skin (better for fewer tingles). Aloe and hyaluronic acid provide the hydration while vitamin E and jojoba oil help to ensure your skin doesn’t feel stripped. I appreciate that it is unscented, I don’t want my desk smelling like a citrus grove at 9 am. You already know the drill about daily use and the benefits like lightening dark spots, fine lines, etc.
29. Cooling After-Sun Lotion With Mint, Aloe, and 24-Hour Moisture
Neutrogena Sun Rescue After Sun Replenishing LotionSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
After a long day at the beach, my skin usually feels like it wants to sue me. This is the truce. Cooling aloe vera and mint extract do the trick, and feels like a mix of menthol and a cold, wet cloth. Vitamin E is in it, which is a great antioxidant if you, um, like me, and misjudge how strong the sun is on cloudy days. It’s non-comedogenic and has no sulfates, parabens, or dyes, so sensitive skin won’t have a revolt. Plus, it’s vegan. A good bottle to have as a pair with sunscreen, since one really does need the other.
30. Pure Retinol Serum Formulated for Skittish Sensitive-Skin Beginners
La Roche-Posay Pure Retinol Face SerumSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
If you are trying retinol for the first time, this product is made for you! Pure retinol can ruin your sensitive skin in three days, which is why this product has a special gradual-release formulation for retinol. It contains Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid which means you can skip the barrier strengthener and just use this product. This product has been dermatologist tested for sensitive skin which doesn’t sound like a big deal until you have used retinol that makes you skin peel off like a snake. Make sure you use it at night and wear sunscreen the next day. This is standard retinol use, but this product makes it easier to use than any other retinol.
31. Growth Factor Serum That Tackles Fine Lines and Crepey Texture
The Ordinary GF 15% SolutionSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
There are some new growth factors out on the market, and this serum features three of them: EGF, TGF, and IGF. These are all derived from plants and work on short, mid, and long term skin renewal. A few drops do the trick, and you can use this twice a day. You will want to avoid using any direct acids or serums that contain vitamin C as this serum will not mix well with those. It will target the basic problem areas like fine lines, loss of firmness, and rough and dull skin texture. With prices like those of The Ordinary, this is one of the few growth factor serums that won't require you to take out a mortgage.
32. Green-Tinted Cica Cream That Cancels Redness and Calms Reactive Skin
IVOSKIN Cica Redness Relief Treatment CreamSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Green-tinted moisturizers may seem gimmicky, but they really do work! For example, I tried one after a workout when my face was very red, and the redness toned down a lot. The tint visually cancels out pink in your face, and then the Centella Asiatica and Madecassoside soothes the skin that caused the flush in the first place. It also has panthenol, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid that help strengthen the skin barrier, which is a plus if your skin is sensitive because you have a compromised skin barrier. (Mine does, hi.) In addition to this being a really good product, it's vegan, 85% naturally derived, and is made in Korea.
33. An SPF 50 Serum With Collagen Peptides and Zero White Cast
Kiehl’s SPF 50+ Sunscreen Serum for FaceSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
At first, I thought using a sunscreen as a serum was trying to sell me something. The good news is that with the Collagen Peptides, I won't have to worry about staying youthful while using this. You can get SPF 50 sun protection, a sheer finish that makes it disappear under your foundation, and no annoying white cast! This sunscreen has a thin, watery texture that is nothing like the thick ones we are so used to. Most testers (94%) said their skin felt smoother after applying and Kiehl's has been around long enough to feel that this is true. My favorite tip from Kiehls: If you are getting a gel manicure, use this on your hands first. It protects your skin from the UV lamp. Genius!
34. Aloe Body Cream That Feels Like Butter Without the Grease
Advanced Clinicals Aloe Vera Lotion Skin CareSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
I can find better uses of my time than trying to review a lotion. But it's hard to complain. They must make lotions in bulk, so getting all of that lotion for under twenty dollars is actually a score. Buckling down on dewy skin, it uses aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and olive oil. All things I personally don't like ingesting. It's like lotion meets salad dressing, but without the grease. Hell yeah. It's post shower safe, post sun safe, and everything in between safe. It's my new go to lotion for all targets.
35. Fade Milk Lotion That Targets Dark Spots Without Hydroquinone
Palmer’s Skin Success AntiSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
They linger. These old breakout scars, sun damage, and ingrown hair marks. This drugstore classic has a milky, fast-absorbing formula that targets discoloration and doesn't contain hydroquinone (which can be bad for your skin and considered controversial for long-term use). Instead, it focuses on Palmer's plant extract, no paraben, sulfate, or dye formulation. They catch is that it requires consistency. It will take weeks, rather than days, for you to see the tone-correcting and elasticity claims to happen. But it's less than $15, so it's a risk easy to take when adding to the post-shower lineup.
36. Whipped Beef Tallow Balm With Manuka Honey for Dry Patches
RICHGRAND Beef Tallow for SkinSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Beef tallow on your face sounds questionable, and I thought the same thing. But it turns out beef tallow has a similar lipid profile to human skin cells. This means beef tallow absorbs into the skin as opposed to just sitting on top like a greasy film. My version has been whipped to a light and airy texture and the beef tallow is combined with raw Manuka honey and beeswax to make a breathable barrier. There is no beefy smell, which was my main concern (okay, my second concern). A pea sized amount is enough to cover your whole face because there is no water in the jar, only active ingredients. This product is also great for cuticles, elbows, lips, and those weird dry patches on your shins. So yeah, this is apparently Ancestral Skincare.
37. Hyaluronic Acid Serum That 92% of Testers Said Reversed Damage
No7 Future Renew Damage Reversal Face SerumSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
No7 is that British drugstore brand that your mom probably loves, but I actually appreciate the fact that they do real clinical testing. This one pairs hyaluronic acid with niacinamide, which is a combo made in heaven for anyone whose skin has seen some sun (i.e. most of us). In a consumer study, 92% said their skin looked less damaged after eight weeks of using this product. Dermatologist-approved, sensitive-skin friendly. Honestly? For the price, it's an easy yes.
38. Niacinamide and Vitamin C Cream That Tackles Spots Everywhere From Face to Knees
Dark Spot Corrector CreamSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
It’s nice to find a jar cream that combines the two most recommended ingredients by dermatologists to treat hyperpigmentation, niacinamide and vitamin C, especially at drugstore prices. It means you don’t have to layer multiple products. The cream is face and body, which is great because your sun spots might not be limited to just your cheeks. It could be on the inner elbows, knees, backs of the hands, or that one weird spot on the chest area because of old sunscreen caused by the years of sunscreen neglect. To see results, it’s best to be consistent and use the cream day and night on clean skin. This part may not be appealing but it’s the truth.
39. Rice Water Sunscreen That Leaves Skin Dewy, Not Chalky
TOSOWOONG Rice Glow SunscreenSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Rice water has been used in Korean skincare for hundreds of years, and this product definitely draws from that history, with a whopping 35% rice bran water concentrate! Added to this are ten different kinds of hyaluronic acid along with niacinamide to target dark spots. The finish is what we loved most. Dewy and non-greasy, there is no chalky cast on deeper skin tones – still a low bar that most SPFs fail to reach. It has the feel of a refreshing essence rather than a sunscreen, and it even has SPF 50+ with broad spectrum coverage. Plus, it’s been skin irritation tested, so sensitive skin types can finally stop scrolling.
40. Body Cream Serum That Fades Dark Spots in Two Weeks
Dove Body Cream Serum Niacinamide + EvenSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Dove was able to create something for your arms too. The formula includes niacinamide fused with vitamin C, retinol, and shea butter. Rather than just using the lotion that you wouldn’t think about at a store, at first glance, this product includes some serious ingredients for targeting dark spots. You won’t see results quickly though, The company claims that you will see results in about 2 weeks which is how long it actually takes for the active ingredients in the product to really work. This may not be ideal for people who have been treating their face to be very valuable and their legs poorly. But just like the face skin, the shins are still skin.
41. Thiamidol Serum That Targets Stubborn Sun Spots and Fine Lines
Eucerin Radiant Tone Dual Serum Dark SpotSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Thiamidol is the best ingredient in this product and is the main reason why Eucerin can state that you will see results after 2 weeks. Eucerin can back up their claims with the results they will be able to provide you with. On top if this you get hyaluronic acid, which helps with fine lines, and we all like to pretend those don't exist. It also has a non-comedogenic formula that is suitable for all skin types because, as a bonus, it comes from a derm-adjacent drugstore brand that has been around for a long time. It provides great results with a small amount of product so, just don't get upset if it's a small bottle because, as you know, serums are usually in small bottles.
42. Melasyl and 10% Niacinamide Serum for Post-Acne Marks That Linger
La Roche-Posay Mela B3 SerumSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
La Roche-Posay has conducted research over the past 18 years on the patented Melasyl (in conjunction with 10% niacinamide), a multi-patented active ingredient. Sure, it sounds like a lot of marketing math. However, La Roche-Posay has the numbers, and backs it up: 85% of clinical trial subjects experienced a reduction in dark spots, and the results are consistent across all skin colors. It targets those stubborn post-acne marks that tend to linger for ages, as well as, sun spots and age spots. Patience is key here, and so is consistency. You have 8 weeks of homework, and yes, you have to use it.
43. Daily Retinol Moisturizer with Built-In SPF 30 for Lazy Mornings
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Face MoisturizerSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Most two-in-one products usually compromise on something, but this one mostly doesn't. Pure retinol does the long-term damage control (fine lines, dark spots, the dullness you started noticing around age 32), while the Broad Spectrum SPF 30 does the part that most retinol creams skip: actually protecting the skin from the sun that caused the damage in the first place. Hyaluronic acid keeps things from getting flaky, which is the usual retinol tradeoff. Dermatologist tested; but there is a more important detail, which is that you should expect visible results around the four-week mark if you are consistent. It does not have parabens, mineral oil, or dyes. It's a drugstore staple for a reason.
44. Triple-Threat Cream with Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamin C
L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Triple Power AntiSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
This cream has three popular ingredients in it: Pro-Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamin C. Pro-Retinol helps with wrinkles, Hyaluronic Acid helps with skin plumping, and Vitamin C helps with the dull skin we all get during the winter season. This cream is a solid choice if you are looking for your first retinol cream because it will probably only give you smoothing. It can be used in the morning and at night and it can be used on your neck because the skin on your neck needs love too. The brand claims to have noticeable results in a week which is a bit of a stretch but if you use it consistently it will help smooth the skin.
45. Multi-Use Healing Balm with SPF 50 for Post-Treatment Skin
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5 UV SPFSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
After treatments, skin is sensitive, but sunscreen is a must. Most sunscreens actually sting and irritate freshly treated skin. So, La Roche-Posay made one designed specially for recovery. It is a thick creamy texture made with their Cicaplast formula (which contains panthenol, madecassoside, and shea butter) along with some other dermatologist favorites for soothing post-laser and peel skin.) Additionally, it contains SPF 50 from zinc oxide (a mineral sunblock). It can also be used to soothe windburn, dry cracked skin, and pesky flaky spots. The tribioma complex will support your skins barrier while you heal, which is very important to do.
46. An Overnight Retinol Lotion That Treats Your Face and Body
Gold Bond Age Renew Retinol Overnight BodySee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Drugstore retinol that won't scare you. The exfoliation process is slow because of the pairing with a peptide complex, so your cheeks won't be flaking off by Tuesday. With 7 moisturizers and 3 vitamins, you'll be cushioned. It's unscented, which I appreciate. It's a lot to ask of one nighttime routine to deal with fragrance and retinol together. Clinical testing claims 93% of users saw smoother skin. Whether that's you remains to be seen, but the price point makes the experiment feel low-stakes. Apply face, neck, body. Go to bed.
47. A 2% BHA Liquid That Unclogs Pores While You Sleep
Paulas ChoiceSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Earned cult-favorite status. Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble exfoliator that gets inside the pore (where blackheads live) as opposed to just sitting on the surface like your typical scrub. It's meant to be used daily, and most skin types can do so, which is kind of the point. It has been credited by users for minimizing those stubborn bumps on the forehead and chin that concealer can't hide.
48. Matte SPF 30 Moisturizer with Niacinamide for Shiny T-Zones
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Matte MoisturizerSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Summer brings a unique set of challenges for people with oily skin. By 11 a.m., your face is shining and your foundation is basically sliding off your face. This matte moisturizer does the job of two products. There is niacinamide to help with pore size and skin barrier repair, and it also has SPF 30 that protects you from both UVA and UVB rays. There is no oxybenzone, and no fragrance, which is great if your skin tends to cause you problems. It’s been tested by dermatologists, it won’t clog your pores, and it is inexpensive. This is a good option for combination skin that doesn’t want a complicated routine every morning.
49. Color-Correcting Primer with SPF 50 That Blurs and Hydrates
3 In 1Primer for Face Before Makeup,SunscreenSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
The three color correcting pigments work like a full palette by blending; peach to correct redness, green to correct dullness, and lavender to correct shadowy areas. It also has SPF 50 which feels like cheating but in a good way. It is gentle enough to not irritate sensitive skin and offers a grip on oily skin without the greasy slip. You can wear this on its own on a weekend or layered under a base for work. Your skin looks more even and slightly illuminated. It also feels nice and protected without reaching for concealer.
50. Liquid Foundation That Shifts from White to Your Shade
Almay Skintone Matching FoundationSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Foundation that starts white and then turns to a flesh tone color sounds like a weird science project. Somehow, it works for most people. The Tonemimic Spheres pop as the cream blends with your skin and the pigment actually sinks into your skin. The coverage is buildable and is considered medium. At least there is some sunscreen of SPF 15 in the foundation, which is better than nothing. Plus, it is fragrance free, hypoallergenic, and dermatologist tested. The finish is luminous, not matte, so it won't make dry patches more pronounced. If you have ever tried to match your skin tone with a foundation at the CVS aisle, this is a great foundation for you. (Same. So Same.)
51. Anti-Aging Foundation with SPF That Won’t Settle into Fine Lines
L’Oreal Paris Visible Lift Serum Absolute FoundationSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
I can wear it to work and take care of my kids at home and still feel great. Plus, it makes it easy to get dressed when I only have two minutes to do my makeup. I love that I can protect my skin with some SPF without it looking super obvious. I also really appreciate that it helps out with my wrinkles. Over the course of a few weeks, I expect to look more awake. I feel like the Buff Beige allies most different skin types, and it looks very natural. I want to suggest this if you do not like doing a full makeup look and skincare routine at 7 a.m.
52. BB Cream with SPF 42 That Works Like Tinted Skincare
MISSHA M Perfect Cover BB Cream No.21See price on AmazonSee on Amazon
This one is basically the original trend-setter for BB creams. While other Korean BB's could only dream of opening the tinted moisturizer floodgates, this one has been running the game for a while. Light Beige cool-toned undertones give a pinkish hue. No more yellow skin that looks like you have jaundice by the time lunch comes around! The texture is whipped and cool and feels more like skincare than makeup. Coverage is adjustable without looking chalky and it's suitable to wear under powder, wear it alone, or even throw a mask on over it for a commute. But it’s not full coverage and that’s the point! Acne-prone and sensitive skin types say it doesn’t cause drama, and the bottle costs less than a sad sandwich at the airport.
53. Rosy-Tinted Blurring Primer with Serum That Softens Lines and Pores
L’Oreal Paris Age Perfect Face Blurring PrimerSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
At first, rosy primers may look like a marketing gimmick, but they do have an effect. The pinkish cast is flattering to skin that is looking tired, uneven, or just blah. It feels really nice when applying it because it glides on like a serum. Even fine lines around the eyes and mouth look softened. You can wear it by itself or under any radiant serum foundation for some extra coverage. The blurring effect is immediate. And since this primer is marketed as serum-infused, that benefit is the longer game and a big win. It can even help with mature skin, dry patches, and the general 4 pm crash that a lot of us experience.
54. All-in-One SPF 50 Foundation That Blurs Pores and Calms Redness
No7 Protect & Perfect Advanced AllSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
The value foundation claims to diminish the appearance of fine lines, and also contains SPF 50. That’s a lot of claims for a 30 mL bottle. The texture is lightweight and almost lotion-like. It also builds from sheer to medium coverage without looking cakey around the cheeks. The shade Cool Beige is a pink-neutral which is preferable for those whose redness is peeking through by 2 PM. The brand claims to have mapped out 1.9 million skin tones in the name of drugstore foundation math when formulating the shade range. The foundation lasts well under powder and on its own. Either way, the SPF is doing a lot of work.
55. Serum Foundation with SPF 15 That Fades Age Spots in 4 Weeks
No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action SerumSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Putting full-coverage foundation on mature skin is not usually a great idea. It settles and creases, which is why this foundation is more serum than foundation. It doesn’t sit on the skin and feel like a mask. Brightening can be caused by Vitamins A, C, and E, and Hibiscus helps retain moisture. There is also optical blurring technology to bounce light off fine lines, and instead of pooling it light, it’s going to be pushed away. There is SPF which is good, but it’s only a 15 which is the bare minimum. Use a damp sponge and make small circles then work your way out to blend. The clinical numbers, 91% of people saw firmer skin after 4 weeks, is real.
56. Baked Powder Foundation That Self-Adjusts to Your Skin Tone
LAURA GELLER NEW YORK AwardSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Finely milled and made in Italy, which you don’t typically say for a drugstore-adjacent powder. These baked pressed powders adjust to your skin tone, so Light actually covers a small range. Centella Asiatica and White Tea Extracts are folded in, so it has a little skincare aspect without having to be a serum. Finish is demi-matte. Not too flat, not too glowy. Just a little more even. It sits weightlessly on the skin, which is awesome for fine lines that like to catch heavier formulas. A good option for uneven days.
57. Hyaluronic Acid Tinted Serum That Hydrates While It Covers
L’Oreal Paris True Match Nude Hyaluronic TintedSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Most products claiming to do makeup and skincare together usually don't keep their promises. Because of this, seeing 1% hyaluronic acid in this product means something. The finish feels more like a serum than a makeup product. This sounds scary but you would be surprised how lightweight this product is. The coverage is sheer to medium and allows for layering in the more coverage needed areas without your whole face looking flat. Luminous mineral pigments allow for layering without your whole face looking flat. Cool Deep 7.5-8.5 is a shade drugstore foundations usually neglect so it's great to see this added. Vegan, fragrance free, and noncomedogenic.
58. Seven-in-One Face Palette Baked on Italian Terracotta Tiles
LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Best of theSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
7 products. 1 compact. Travel math that actually makes sense. Bronzer, blush, 2 highlighters, and 3 nude eyeshadows that are baked on terracotta tiles in Italy before they get shipped to your bathroom. Yeah, the baking part is what gives these powders a cream-like texture that never settles into fine lines. If you’ve watched your blush migrate into your laugh lines, then this is a big deal. The shades are warm and the eyeshadows lean nude (browbone, lid, crease, easy!).
59. Color-Adjusting Foundation That Blends from White to Your Shade
Almay Anti-Aging Foundation (Pack of 1)See price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Adjustable color foundations have a kind of gimmicky reputation. The formula starts completely white and changes color to match your skin as you blend it in. It’s a little odd watching it happen on your hand. The latest version also includes niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, so it’s actually doing skin care while pretending to be makeup. The coverage is light and buildable. It is on the dewy side, so don’t expect a face mask full coverage kind of finish. On the plus side, it’s fragrance free and hypoallergenic, which is a bonus for all sensitive skin people (me sometimes). Shade 400 Beige surprisingly works for a lot of people.
60. Vegan Liquid Foundation in 47 Shades for a Near-Exact Match
L’Oreal Paris True Match SuperSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
47 shades is a lot of shades. That is the whole point. 6 pigments are used for cool, neutral, and warm undertones which is how 99% of women matched their undertone in a 312 person test. The odds are good. The formula is now alcohol-free, oil-free, and fragrance free which is great for everyone who has reactions to those ingredients. It gives medium coverage with a natural finish and it is vegan. It has a pump top which is great because it feels like lotion and not paste. This is a solid drugstore pick that doesn't try too hard.
61. Transparent Blurring Primer That Disappears Into Skin and Fills Pores
M. Asam Magic Finish Perfect Me PrimerSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
Blur technology may sound like it refers to a filter, but in this case, it means the primer fills in pores and fine lines, resulting in a skin-smoothing effect, even under harsh daylight. The primer starts off white but blends in clear to the skin. A little weird at first, and then almost magical. The hydration part is Hyaluronic acid. That's why it works on the dry parts of skin without causing flaking, while somehow still controlling shine in the oily areas. It is vegan and gluten free, and small enough to fit in a work bag.
62. Hydrating Anti-Aging Foundation with SPF 28 and Hyaluronic Acid
COVERGIRL & Olay Simply Ageless Instant Wrinkle (Pack of 1)See price on AmazonSee on Amazon
There is a hyaluronic complex and vitamin C in this drugstore foundation. It also has SPF 28. A nice touch considering what this foundation costs. Dry skin people will love this because it feels like a moisturizer that you rub into your skin. Olay did a collaboration with this foundation and it feels like they are the main ones doing the work to make this good. This foundation has vitamin C that will help brighten your skin, but it may take a little time to start working. As for the coverage, its medium and is easy to build. The shade selection is decent, and it is bunny certified, which some people care about.
63. Full-Coverage CC Cream with SPF 50+, Peptides, and Hyaluronic Acid
IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream (Medium)See price on AmazonSee on Amazon
It is a lot to ask for a single product to offer foundation, something with SPF 50+, and serum benefits, but they deliver on almost all of these functions. The coverage is full but maintains a light lotion-like consistency and absorbs quickly without that awful ten-minutes-later feeling. “Medium“ is the kind of color-neutral shade that works with all fundamentals, especially in winter. With the addition of clay, hyaluronic acid, and peptides do the hydrating and help with the tone evening, while the mineral SPF means you can skip a separate sunscreen step on lazy mornings (which is most mornings let's be honest). It's the top prestige SPF foundation in the US for a reason, and the formula explains everything.
64. An Airbrush Foundation Spray Infused with Hyaluronic Acid and Peptides
Jerome Alexander MagicMinerals AirBrush Foundation – 2 (2 Piece)See price on AmazonSee on Amazon
It sounds gimmicky, but it works really well. The microfine mist creates an even application without streaking or pooling around the nose. This takes you, at most, thirty seconds. Just a few pumps, blend it in with a kabuki brush, and you are done. This foundation is different than all of the other spray foundations because it contains Argireline and Matrixyl 3000, which are usually found in hydrating serums. These prevent the foundation from settling on top of fine lines and also provides full coverage. This foundation is also sweat-proof, which is very important for August. The Light Medium shade is a little neutral. It is pretty impressive for a spray foundation.
65. Four-in-One Mousse That Works as Primer, Foundation, Concealer, and Powder
M. Asam Magic Finish MakeSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
With this product, you get four in one. There's primer, foundation, concealer, and, finishing powder. I get it. It may seem surprising that all of these are in the same product, but don't worry. The texture is good and unusual. It feels whipped and weightless, like the light frosting found on some cupcakes. (sorry about the food reference). If you have some redness on your cheeks or dark circles under your eyes, you can layer it up, and then you can leave it there. The finish is matte and looks natural, not cakey. It's vegan, made in Germany, and doesn't include alcohol, parabens, talc, or, phthalates. This product is ideal for people with fair to medium skin tones who want a simple makeup routine.
66. A Lightweight Glotion That Hydrates and Highlights in Four Shades
L’Oréal Paris Makeup True Match Lumi GlotionSee price on AmazonSee on Amazon
What even is Glotion? It's not a moisturizer. It's not a foundation. It's not even a highlighter. It's all of them and none of them at the same time and somehow that is a good thing. You squeeze out a little and because of the thin lotion consistency and a little bit of a coolness to the touch, you can either rub it all over your face for a dewy base or you can just dab some onto your cheekbones and use it as a highlighter. It comes in four different shades, which seems really limited at first, but the formula is sheer enough that it doesn't matter. You can also use it as a primer under foundation if your trying to achieve a full coverage look. Your skin will have that lit from within glow and not glittery look.
