Calin Van ParisBoth Sarah Jessica Parker and Martha Stewart—60 and 84, respectively—lean on Merit Beauty’s cult-status Flush Balm for a pop of sheer, dewy color.
These days, the best blushes for mature skin branch out from powder to include all sorts of hydrating, bounce-restoring formulas, and faces of all ages—and not only famous ones, of course—can benefit from the breadth of options available. “There are significantly better blush options for mature skin now than in years past,” says pro makeup artist Catrina Breitweiser. “Brands are finally prioritizing skin-like finishes, flexible pigments, and formulas that enhance the complexion instead of sitting on top of it or emphasizing texture.”
Alongside the rise of skincare-forward blushes formulated as serums, creams, or balms, Breitweiser has seen powder blushes get an older women-friendly upgrade. “Modern powder blushes are lighter, more finely milled, and far more blendable than older formulations,” she notes. “They melt into the skin, wear longer without patchiness, and give a soft-focus effect rather than a heavy or powdery finish.”
To get the most out of any blush formula, skin prep matters. “If the skin is not taken care of, the makeup products don’t sit well—we start to see makeup lying on top of the skin, instead of melting in,” says pro makeup artist and esthetician Amanda Gabbard. Application also counts when it comes to achieving that melted-in second-skin color lift. “Patting pigment into the skin gives a flushed look, not the sharp swipe of color you can get with a brush,” says pro makeup artist Pilar DeMann.
All of this is to say, the right blush can go a long way toward making mature skin appear fresh and charmingly flushed—and certain formulas stand out in a market that’s increasingly, well, flush. To narrow your search, see the blushes industry experts most recommend, then go forth and let the color rise.
Amandine Lhoste
Calin Van Paris
Alexis Parker
Amandine Lhoste