As we navigate the changing seasons and our skin matures over the age of 40, finding the right makeup products can be a balancing act for those with dry skin. The key lies in choosing formulas that hydrate and nourish while providing the coverage and staying power we desire. Enter drugstore makeup, a treasure trove of affordable options that cater specifically to the unique needs of dry, aging skin.
Gone are the days when drugstore makeup was associated with inferior quality. Today’s drugstore brands have made significant strides in their formulations, offering products that rival high-end counterparts in both performance and ingredients. For dry skin over 40, the focus is on moisture-rich formulas that prevent dehydration and create a smooth, luminous base for makeup application. Look for products infused with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and squalane to plump up the skin and protect its barrier from environmental aggressors.
Coverage is another important consideration. While we may not desire heavy, cakey makeup that emphasizes fine lines, we still want products that effectively conceal imperfections and even out our skin tone. Look for foundations and concealers with medium to buildable coverage, opting for cream or liquid formulas that glide on smoothly and provide a natural, dewy finish. Avoid powder formulas that can accentuate dryness and emphasize wrinkles.
The Best Drugstore Moisturizing Foundations
L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Radiant Serum Foundation
This foundation is a favorite among those with dry skin. It contains hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that helps to attract and retain moisture. It also has vitamin B3, which helps to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The finish is dewy and natural, and it provides medium coverage that can be built up to full coverage. It won’t settle into fine lines or wrinkles, and it lasts all day without getting cakey.
Key benefits:
- Hyaluronic acid for hydration
- Vitamin B3 for brightening
- Dewy and natural finish
- Medium to full coverage
- Long-lasting
Maybelline New York Dream BB Fresh
This BB cream is a good choice for those with dry skin who want a lighter coverage foundation. It contains glycerin, a humectant that helps to keep the skin hydrated. It also has SPF 30, which helps to protect the skin from the sun’s harmful rays. The finish is natural and leaves the skin looking healthy and radiant.
Key benefits:
- Glycerin for hydration
- SPF 30 for sun protection
- Natural finish
- Light coverage
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint
This tint is a good option for those with very dry skin. It contains hyaluronic acid, which helps to attract and retain moisture. It also has glycerin, a humectant that helps to keep the skin hydrated. The finish is dewy and natural, and it provides sheer coverage that can be built up to light coverage. It’s also non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores.
Key benefits:
- Hyaluronic acid for hydration
- Glycerin for hydration
- Dewy and natural finish
- Sheer to light coverage
- Non-comedogenic
Dewy Blushes for a Natural Flush
Choose the Right Formula
Liquid or cream blushes are ideal for dry skin types. They blend seamlessly into the skin, providing a natural-looking wash of color that hydrates and nourishes without emphasizing dryness or creating a cakey finish.
Find Your Perfect Shade
For a flattering and subtle flush, opt for shades that mimic your natural skin tone. Choose warm peachy hues, rosy pinks, or soft corals that enhance your complexion without overwhelming it. Avoid overly matte or shimmery formulas, as they can accentuate dryness and fine lines.
Application Tips for a Dewy Glow
To achieve a dewy blush effect, apply your chosen product sparingly with a brush or sponge. Start with a small amount and build up the intensity as needed. Use a tapping motion to blend the blush into the apples of your cheeks, creating a natural lift. Avoid over-applying, as this can weigh down the makeup and make the skin look dull.
Recommended Dewy Blushes
| Product | Formula | Shades |
|---|---|---|
| Maybelline Fit Me! Blush | Cream | Rose, Peach, Coral |
| L’Oréal Paris True Match Blush | Liquid | Natural Rose, Berry, Spice |
| NYX Professional Makeup Liquid Suede Cream Blush | Liquid | Soft Coral, Warm Peach, Subtle Pink |
Eyeliners that Glide on Smoothly
For mature eyes, it’s crucial to find eyeliners that apply effortlessly without tugging or pulling. Here are some drugstore gems that provide a smooth and comfortable application:
1. NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner: This eyeliner features an ultra-fine felt tip that allows for precise application, from thin lines to dramatic cat eyes.
2. L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Liquid Eyeliner: The soft brush tip of this eyeliner ensures a smooth and seamless application, delivering intense, smudge-proof color.
3. Maybelline New York Master Precise Liquid Eyeliner: With its flexible brush and waterproof formula, this eyeliner offers precise and long-lasting wear, resisting fading and smudging.
4. Wet n Wild ProLine Felt-Tip Eyeliner Pen: This budget-friendly option boasts a precision felt tip that glides effortlessly across the lash line, creating defined lines with minimal effort.
5. Physician’s Formula Ultra-Fine Liquid Eyeliner: Specially formulated for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, this eyeliner features a gentle hypoallergenic formula that glides on smoothly without irritation.
The following table provides a quick overview of these top 5 eyeliners for dry skin over 40:
| Eyeliner | Key Features |
|---|---|
| NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner | Ultra-fine felt tip, precise application |
| L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Liquid Eyeliner | Soft brush tip, smudge-proof color |
| Maybelline New York Master Precise Liquid Eyeliner | Flexible brush, waterproof formula |
| Wet n Wild ProLine Felt-Tip Eyeliner Pen | Precision felt tip, budget-friendly |
| Physician’s Formula Ultra-Fine Liquid Eyeliner | Hypoallergenic formula, gentle on sensitive eyes |
Mascaras that Nourish Lashes
For dry, mature lashes, look for mascaras formulated with nourishing ingredients like panthenol, biotin, and vitamin E. These ingredients help to strengthen and condition lashes while adding volume and length.
Here are a few drugstore mascaras that are particularly good for nourishing dry lashes:
| Brand | Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
| L’Oréal | Lash Paradise Voluminous Mascara | $10.99 |
| Maybelline | Lash Sensational Luscious Mascara | $8.99 |
| CoverGirl | Flourish Mascara by Lash Blast | $9.99 |
When applying mascara to dry lashes, use a light hand and avoid tugging or pulling. Start at the base of your lashes and wiggle the brush upward, using short, gentle strokes. This will help to coat your lashes evenly without causing them to clump or break.
For extra nourishment, apply a coat of lash conditioner or serum before applying mascara. This will help to hydrate and strengthen your lashes, making them less prone to breakage.
Face Powders for a Flawless Finish
When it comes to dry skin over 40, finding the right face powder is essential. Here are some of the best drugstore options that will help you achieve a flawless finish:
- Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder: This ultra-fine powder blurs imperfections and provides a matte finish that lasts all day.
- L’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Powder: Available in a wide range of shades, this powder adapts to your skin tone for a natural look.
- CoverGirl Clean Matte Pressed Powder: This oil-absorbing powder controls shine and gives your skin a velvety soft touch.
- Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder: With its lightweight formula, this powder keeps your face shine-free for up to 12 hours.
- NYX Professional Makeup Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Setting Powder: This finely milled powder sets makeup without making it look cakey or dry.
- e.l.f. Cosmetics Active Hydration Translucent Powder: Infused with hyaluronic acid, this powder hydrates and mattifies the skin, leaving it looking radiant.
- Revlon PhotoReady Candid Natural Finish Anti-Pollution Powder: Formulated with antioxidants and vitamin C, this powder protects your skin from environmental stressors while providing a natural finish.
| Product | Finish | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder | Matte | Light to medium |
| L’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Powder | Natural | Light to medium |
| CoverGirl Clean Matte Pressed Powder | Matte | Light to medium |
Setting Sprays to Lock in Moisture
Finding the right setting spray for dry skin over 40 can make a significant difference in maintaining a flawless makeup look. Here are some top drugstore options that effectively hydrate and keep your makeup in place:
NYX Professional Makeup Dewy Finish Setting Spray
This spray delivers a dewy finish that instantly revives dry skin, leaving it looking plump and hydrated. Its formula contains glycerin and algae extract to nourish and protect the skin.
Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Setting Spray
Specially formulated for dry and normal skin, this setting spray features hyaluronic acid to enhance moisture levels and create a smooth, radiant canvas for makeup.
L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Radiant Satin Finish Setting Spray
Infused with glycerin and vitamin B5, this setting spray provides intense hydration and a radiant finish. It helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, giving a more youthful appearance.
Physicians Formula Rosé All Day Setting Spray
This spray contains rosewater, a soothing and hydrating ingredient that calms dry skin while adding a touch of radiance. It also includes chamomile and green tea extracts to protect against environmental stressors.
To enhance the hydrating effects of setting sprays, consider layering them with other moisturizing products. Here’s a suggested skincare routine to maximize moisture retention:
| Step | Product |
|---|---|
| 1 | Gentle cleanser |
| 2 | Hydrating toner |
| 3 | Moisturizer |
| 4 | Setting spray |
Affordable Skincare Products to Prep Skin for Makeup
Prepping your skin is crucial for a flawless makeup application, especially for dry skin over 40. Here are some drugstore-friendly skincare products that will leave your skin feeling hydrated, smooth, and ready for makeup:
Cleansers
Look for gentle, hydrating cleansers that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Cetaphil’s Gentle Skin Cleanser and CeraVe’s Hydrating Cleanser are excellent options.
Toners
Toners help restore the skin’s pH balance and remove any remaining impurities. Alcohol-free toners are best for dry skin. Try Thayer’s Witch Hazel Toner or Mario Badescu’s Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs, and Rosewater.
Serums
Serums deliver concentrated ingredients that can address specific skin concerns. For dry skin, hyaluronic acid serums are highly effective for hydration. The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 and The Inkey List’s Hyaluronic Acid Serum are affordable options.
Moisturizers
Moisturizers are essential for keeping dry skin hydrated and protected. Look for creams or lotions that contain nourishing ingredients like ceramides, squalane, or shea butter. Cerave’s Moisturizing Cream and Vanicream’s Moisturizing Cream are great choices.
Tips for Applying Makeup on Dry Skin Over 40
Moisturize Heavily: Apply a rich moisturizer to your skin before starting your makeup routine. Look for products that contain ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or squalane to deeply hydrate and protect your skin.
Use a Hydrating Primer: A good primer can help create a smooth base for your makeup and keep your skin hydrated throughout the day. Choose a primer specifically formulated for dry skin that contains nourishing ingredients like glycerin or vitamins.
Choose Liquid or Cream Products: Liquid and cream foundations and concealers tend to be more moisturizing than powder products. They blend easily into dry skin, providing coverage without caking or settling into fine lines.
Use a Damp Beauty Blender: Dampening your beauty blender before applying foundation will help it absorb less product, allowing you to create a sheer, natural finish. The damp sponge will also add a bit of extra hydration to your skin.
Avoid Matte Products: Matte products can emphasize dryness and make your skin appear dull. Instead, opt for products with a luminous or satin finish to create a more youthful glow.
Highlight Your Cheekbones: Adding a touch of shimmery highlighter to your cheekbones will create dimension and reflect light, making your skin look brighter and more lifted.
Use a Cream Blush: Cream blushes are more moisturizing and easier to blend than powder blushes. They can add a natural flush of color to your cheeks without drying them out.
Apply Mascara Before Foundation: Applying mascara before foundation will prevent mascara flakes from smudging onto your foundation. It also allows you to remove mascara without disturbing your base makeup.
Use a Finishing Spray: A hydrating finishing spray can help set your makeup and keep your skin hydrated throughout the day. Choose a spray that contains ingredients like rose water or glycerin.
10. Re-apply Moisturizer Throughout the Day: If your skin tends to get dry throughout the day, carry a small tube of moisturizer with you to reapply as needed. This will help keep your skin hydrated and prevent your makeup from looking flaky.
Recommended Drugstore Makeup for Dry Skin Over 40:
| Product | Brand |
|---|---|
| L’Oréal Paris True Match Hyaluronic Tinted Serum | L’Oréal Paris |
| Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Foundation | Maybelline |
| Revlon PhotoReady Candid Anti-Pollution Foundation | Revlon |
| e.l.f. Cosmetics Hydrating Camo Concealer | e.l.f. Cosmetics |
| NYX Professional Makeup Born to Glow Naturally Radiant Concealer | NYX Professional Makeup |
Best Drugstore Makeup for Dry Skin Over 40
Finding the right makeup for dry skin over 40 can be a challenge. Many products can be drying or cause irritation. However, there are a few drugstore brands that offer great options for dry skin. Here are a few of our favorites:
- L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Radiant Serum Foundation: This foundation is infused with serum to hydrate and nourish the skin. It also provides medium coverage with a natural finish.
- Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Foundation: This foundation has a lightweight, dewy finish that will not emphasize dry patches. It also provides sheer to medium coverage.
- Revlon ColorStay Hydrating Foundation: This foundation is long-lasting and provides medium to full coverage. It also contains hyaluronic acid to help keep the skin hydrated.
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint: This tint is perfect for those who want a sheer, natural look. It contains hyaluronic acid to help keep the skin hydrated.
- Physicians Formula Healthy Foundation: This foundation is made with skin-loving ingredients like vitamins A, C, and E. It provides light to medium coverage and has a satin finish.
People Also Ask About Best Drugstore Makeup for Dry Skin Over 40
What are the best tips for applying makeup on dry skin?
Here are a few tips for applying makeup on dry skin:
- Start with a good moisturizer. This will help to create a smooth base for your makeup and prevent it from looking dry or cakey.
- Use a damp sponge or brush to apply your foundation. This will help to blend the foundation more evenly and prevent it from looking streaky.
- Avoid using powder products. Powder can emphasize dry patches and make your skin look even drier.
- Use cream or liquid blushes and highlighters. These products will help to add a dewy glow to your skin and prevent it from looking flat.
- Set your makeup with a setting spray. This will help to keep your makeup in place all day long.
What are the best drugstore concealers for dry skin?
Here are a few of the best drugstore concealers for dry skin:
- Maybelline Fit Me Concealer
- L’Oréal Paris True Match Concealer
- Revlon ColorStay Concealer
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Concealer
- Physicians Formula Healthy Concealer
What are the best drugstore mascaras for dry skin?
Here are a few of the best drugstore mascaras for dry skin:
- L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara
- Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara
- Revlon Super Length Mascara
- Neutrogena Healthy Volume Mascara
- Physicians Formula Organic Wear Mascara
