Beauty Clinic: Foundation advice for (much) older skin

Q. I am in my eighties and would like your advice on the best foundation to use on slightly wrinkly skin, sallow and with open pores.  I have tried the mineral powders but they settle into the skin and look too made up, and have a leading brand’s liquid foundation, which is lovely but not enough coverage and does not stay. A, Thank you so much for writing to us and we would love to help.

To start with, we just wonder how you prepare your skin for foundation?  We do suggest using a good moisturiser, possibly over a serum, and letting it sink in for a few minutes.  Then – and we think this could make all the difference – we recommend trying a primer to create a more even canvas for your foundation.  This should help it stay and also give even coverage.  You may then find that your current foundation gives you enough coverage and lasts better.

There are many great primers available including Clinique Colour Corrects Superprimers.  We do suggest going to your nearest Clinique counter and asking for the consultant’s advice on which is the best to you.  There is a Colour Corrects Sallowness, with a hint of mauve to perk up your complexion.  On the luxury side, we adore Guerlain Météeorite Perles Base Perfecting Perles, with little pink beads suspended in clear moisturising gel, which not only brighten but also help conceal blemishes and fine lines.  We really rate the B. cosmetic range from Superdrug which offers B. Prepared Makeup Primer.

If you feel you do need a change, we suggest trying Giorgio Armani Foundation, which has fabulous light textures and good shades.  But do please try the different types/tones in daylight.  Take a good-size pocket mirror with you, ask the consultant to put two or three different shades on your lower cheek above your jawline and then pop outside to inspect.  You want the shade that disappears into your skin tone.

We’re also impressed by the new Zelens Active Colour treatment make-up range from aesthetic plastic surgeon Dr Marko Lens, who launched the skincare a decade or so ago.  The Age Control Foundation, available in five shades, is stuffed with 17 active anti-ageing ingredients.  Try it over the dewy finish Satin Primer, or matte Velvet Primer.  Yes, they are investment products, but they should last a long time.  From www.uk.spacenk.com, and Space.NK. stores.

Clinique’s Colour Corrects Superprimers/£20 at www.boots.com - buy here

Guerlain Meteorite Perles Base Perfecting Perles/£42 for 30 ml at www.feelunique.com - buy here

B. Prepared Makeup Primer/£9.99 for 25 ml at www.superdrug.com - buy here

Giorgio Armani Foundation/£35.50 at www.debenhams.com - buy here

Zelens Age Control Foundation/£65 for 30 ml, Satin Primer/£42 for 30 ml and Velvet Primer/£42 for 30 ml at www.uk.spacenk.com - buy here