5 Best Anti-Aging Makeup Products

The blush of youth is one thing. But can makeup with retinol, antioxidants, soy, and other anti-agers turn back the clock? "It's a good way to round out what you're already doing with your skin-care routine," says Chicago dermatologist Amy Derick, M.D. In other words, pair an anti-aging cosmetic with your favorite serum or cream, and you'll be delivering a one-two punch to your wrinkles, age spots, and more. Dr. Derick is quick to note the best age fighter around is sunscreen, common in many of the latest cosmetics. And while it takes consistent, prolonged use of almost any treatment product (at least four weeks, derms agree) to produce results, most multitasking makeup delivers an instant youth-restorer as well: reflective particles that bounce and scatter light so fine lines and imperfections look less obvious (call it the candlelight effect). Here are the best choices for your personal complexion concerns.

Related: Get the Full List of Best Anti-Aging Makeup


YOUR CONCERN: DRYNESS

Nothing accentuates fine lines like parched skin. Look for a foundation that contains humectants, known for their ability to absorb and hold on to moisture from the air, says New York City dermatologist David Colbert, M.D.

Try Stila Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 ($32, Sephora), which hydrates with hyaluronic acid. Skip powder foundations, concealers, and bronzers; powder can easily emphasize lines. An exception: Physicians Formula Cashmere Wear Ultra Smoothing Bronzer ($14, drugstores), which relies on hyaluronic acid for a smooth finish.


YOUR CONCERN: LINES

Among the most promising wrinkle fighters making their way into makeup are peptides. "These small proteins are key actors in collagen synthesis, and they enhance the performance of antioxidants," says Dr. Colbert.

Try Mary Kay Timewise Luminous-Wear Liquid Foundation ($20, marykay.com) and Almay Smart Shade Anti-Aging Concealer ($9, drugstores), both with a blend of peptides and antioxidants.
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YOUR CONCERN: UNEVEN OR DULL COMPLEXION

Whichever you're dealing with, SPF can be as valuable an addition to your makeup as complexion-evening and -brightening ingredients, says Dr. Derick. Hyperpigmentation, whether in the form of age spots or dark patches, can become pronounced with the slightest exposure to sun, adds Dr. Colbert.

Try Neutrogena Healthy Skin Compact Foundation SPF 55 ($14, drugstores), the brand's first makeup to incorporate its broad-spectrum sunscreen ingredient, Helioplex.
Related: Anti-Aging Cleansers



Tell us: What's your favorite anti-aging makeup product?

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