Frequently asked questions
Why are BB creams good for mature skin types?
“BB creams can be a great option for mature skin because they tend to be more lightweight and forgiving than a fuller-coverage foundation,” says Rose Siard, a makeup educator and content creator. “As we age, skin can become drier, and we can start to see more texture, so heavier formulas may settle or emphasize the areas we’re trying to soften.” She adds that the best BB creams for mature skin can help even out discoloration, add hydration, and give the skin a smoother, more balanced appearance.
What ingredients should you look for in a BB cream?
According to Dr. Woodruff, “In addition to cosmetic pigments, BB creams also have active ingredients that benefit skin health in various ways—antioxidant, antiaging, anti-inflammatory, et cetera.” In particular, she says that antioxidants, such as vitamin C, ergothioneine, resveratrol, and niacinamide, can help reverse oxidative damage from the sun and pollution. Niacinamide and vitamin C can also help even skin tone with regular use, she says, as can azelaic acid. “Sodium Hyaluronate has a plumping effect as it can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water,” she adds, and copper tripeptide may stimulate collagen synthesis and improve signs of photoaging.
Speaking of photoaging, aesthetician Natalie Aguilar prefers formulas with SPF. “For added daily protection, consider BB creams formulated with mineral sunscreen ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide,” she says. When used in conjunction with a regular sunscreen, “These physical UV filters help shield the skin from harmful UV rays.”
How to choose the right BB cream based on your skin type and undertone
“I always say, start with your skin type,” says Stevi Christine, a professional brow and makeup artist. “If you’re dry, look for something hydrating and radiant. If you’re oily, go for oil-free or more of a natural matte finish. Combination skin usually does best with something lightweight, and if you’re sensitive, keep it simple and look for fragrance-free formulas.”
Undertone matters too. “Warm undertones usually look better in golden or peachy shades; for cool undertones I prefer more pink or rosy, and neutral is somewhere in between,” Christine suggests. “The right BB cream should blend in easily.”
When evaluating the best BB creams for mature skin, Glamour editors tested and researched several top-ranked formulas, taking each one’s longevity, pigmentation, SPF protection, and ingredient profile into account. The products that ultimately made the cut went beyond the basics of pure color correction to address the most common skin needs in aging women, such as dry skin, discoloration, and visible pores. Finally, each selection was vetted by an industry expert, and our panel of pros included those listed below.
- May Paulina, a professional hairstylist and makeup artist
- Rose Siard, a makeup educator, content creator, and co-founder of Rose and Ben Beauty
- Stevi Christine, a professional brow and makeup artist and the founder of Naturally by Stevi Christine
- Scott Barnes, a makeup artist and the founder of Scott Barnes Cosmetics
- Carina M. Woodruff, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and director of the Epiphany Skin Allergy Institute in Dallas
- Natalie Aguilar, an aesthetician and dermatological nurse at N4 Skincare in Los Angeles
- Anthony Merante, a celebrity and editorial makeup artist
