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Ever feel like your hair seemingly thinned overnight? One day, it’s full and bouncy; the next, it looks a little sparse around your hairline. The best products for thinning hair can help create immediate volume or promote healthier scalps and strands, even if genetics, hormones, or stress aren’t doing you any favors. “Hair thinning is a normal, shared experience that tends to happen as we mature, and hormones are a major factor,” says Carlos Vieira, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Philadelphia. Lifestyle factors can contribute, too. “Stress and diet play a big role, and deficiencies in iron or copper can contribute to hair thinning,” says Sandra Petrut, a stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago. “Chemical treatments, excessive heat, and even scalp conditions like contact dermatitis can also lead to hair loss.”

Our Top Products for Thinning Hair

• Best Overall: Living Proof Full Volume & Root-Lifting Spray, $34
• Best for Hair Growth: Cécred Restoring Hair & Edge Drops, $56
• Best Styling Foam: Bumble & Bumble Thickening High Drama Styling Foam, $35
• Best Root Cover: Madison Reed The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up + Brow Filler, $36
• Best Scalp Serum: Nécessaire The Scalp Serum, $48

Actual hair regrowth takes time, a lot of patience, and a handful of science-proven ingredients, but volumizing hair products can work right away—giving you the illusion of fuller, thicker hair. “There’s no magic bullet for instantly thicker hair in a permanent sense, but styling products with the right ingredients can create the illusion of temporary volume,” says Jerome Lordet, founder and owner of Jerome Lordet Salon, based in New York City.

Powder-based products will often use ingredients like silica and fibers, says Los Angeles-based cosmetic chemist Amanda Lam, while foams and mousses “rely more on hair fixatives—like PVP, acrylates copolymer, or VP/VA copolymer—to create volume.” And these days, a lot of new products on the market, “not only target thinning hair but also support overall hair health, helping hair grow stronger and healthier [over time],’ adds Lordet.

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What is the best-proven product for thinning hair?
• Can hair grow back after thinning?
• What are the “Big 3” for thinning hair?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Living Proof Full Volume & Root-Lifting Spray

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Living Proof

Full Volume & Root-Lifting Spray

$34

Amazon

$34

Nordstrom

$34

Ulta Beauty

Former Allure content director Kara McGrath applying the Living Proof Full Volume & Root-Lifting Spray

Kara McGrath

Why we love it: When Allure’s former content director Kara McGrath says this spray “completely changed her at-home blowouts,” you know it’s worth paying attention to. Designed for thinning or baby-fine hair, Living Proof’s Full Volume & Root-Lifting Spray brings the drama in the best way. It’s boosted by the brand’s thickening molecule, plus water-soluble resins that lift your roots without any crunch. Amaranth peptides help plump each follicle so your hair looks fuller, bouncier, and way more blowout-y. Add in a blend of volume-locking polymers, and you’re looking at bumped-up hair density that actually sticks around, too.

McGrath before applying the Living Proof Full Volume & Root-Lifting Spray

Kara McGrath

McGrath after applying the Living Proof Full Volume & Root-Lifting Spray

Kara McGrath

Tester feedback from former content director Kara McGrath

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“It added noticeable volume without making my fine hair feel crunchy or dry. I can still run my fingers through my roots when I use this stuff, which can’t be said of some other volumizers that give me similar oomphy results.” —Kara McGrath, former content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: resin blend, peptides, mushroom extract, proprietary time-released styling technology
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Hair Growth: Cécred Restoring Hair & Edge Drops

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Cécred

Restoring Hair & Edge Drops

$56

Ulta Beauty

Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying the Cécred Restoring Hair & Edge Drops

Jessica Cruel

Why we love it: Six years in the making, Cécred was built around the straightforward idea that stronger hair starts at the root, and great formulas should work across every texture. The brand’s Restoring Hair & Edge Drops focus on a concern many people with textured hair know well: thinning around the hairline, which is often caused by tension from tight styles. This lightweight, fast-absorbing serum is designed for fragile edges and thinning spots, helping hair look fuller and stronger over time. Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Chicago, says the peptides in the formula show promising evidence for supporting hair growth, while Brattleboro, Vermont-based cosmetic chemist Sherry Backman notes they may help influence follicle signaling and encourage thicker strands.

Biotin and keratin help reinforce the hair shaft to reduce breakage, while ginger extract and fermented rice proteins have been known to support a healthier scalp environment. A subtle sandalwood-musk scent and a refreshing hint of peppermint oil give it a light, cooling feel that makes it feel a little more like self-care.

Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel

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“A year ago, I started to notice how my edges seemed to snap with even the slightest slick back. So, I put away the edge brush and picked up these Cécred Restoring Hair & Edge Drops. I'm on my second bottle! It feels like a serum, not so watery that my natural hair reverts, but not too oily either. The smell is divine, and after months of using it, I feel my hairline has become more resilient.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief

More to know

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• Key ingredients: bioactive keratin ferment, biopeptide-5, biotin, fermented rice powder, ginger extract, rose extract
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Shampoo and Conditioner: Harklinikken Fortifying Shampoo and Daily Conditioner

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Harklinikken

Fortifying Shampoo

$47

Amazon

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Harklinikken

Daily Conditioner

$55

Amazon

Why we love it: Balancing your scalp’s pH won’t magically reverse thinning or spark brand-new growth, but it does help create the kind of environment where hair can thrive. Think of it like soil for a plant: When the foundation is healthy and stable, follicles have a better shot at doing their job and producing stronger strands. Keeping the scalp slightly acidic also supports the skin barrier, helps calm irritation, and keeps the hair cuticle smoother—small factors that add up to hair that looks and feels healthier over time.

Harklinikken’s Fortifying Shampoo focuses on strengthening while it cleans, using a blend of aloe vera and glycosides to gently lift away buildup without stripping your scalp of its natural oils. The formula pairs cleansing agents with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, betaine, and panthenol. Niacinamide adds a subtle scalp-care element, supporting a healthier environment for hair over time. Follow with the Daily Conditioner, which hydrates with glycerin, another dose of soothing aloe, and avocado oil to smooth strands while keeping them light and bouncy. The silicone-free formula focuses moisture on the lengths, so fine or thinning hair stays soft and airy rather than weighed down.

Allure senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor before applying the Harklinikken Fortifying Shampoo and Daily Conditioner

Jesa Marie Calaor

Calaor after applying the Harklinikken Fortifying Shampoo and Daily Conditioner

Jesa Marie Calaor

Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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“The day I started using Harklinikken's Fortifying Shampoo and Daily Conditioner was the day I realized I might have been settling for less from my hair products. The shampoo thoroughly cleanses without stripping my strands, while the conditioner effortlessly detangles as I work it through the lengths of my hair. The latter feels lighter than some of my other conditioners, but that doesn't mean it skimps out on the moisture. Once dry, my hair feels soft without that filmy or oily residue some conditioners leave behind. My only gripe is that I wish the bottles were bigger—I have such long hair and go through them quickly.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: shampoo: aloe, niacinamide, glycerin, betaine, panthenol; conditioner: glycerin, aloe, avocado oil, lactic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Hair Oil: Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Strength & Shine Supreme Oil

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Marc Anthony

Strictly Curls Strength & Shine Supreme Oil

$10 $9 (10% off)

Amazon

$9

Walmart

Why we love it: Despite the name, you don’t actually need curls to appreciate Marc Anthony’s Strictly Curls Strength & Shine Supreme Oil. But if you have curls that tend to snap before reaching their full length, this one is especially helpful. This lightweight oil blend is packed with nourishing oils like castor, coconut, almond, and jojoba, which moisturize strands, smooth frizz, and boost shine without leaving hair greasy. Rosemary extract and biotin support stronger-looking hair, while antioxidant-rich ingredients like rice bran, grapeseed, and vitamin E help defend against environmental stressors. Botanical extracts—including aloe, chamomile, and nettle—add an extra layer of conditioning for both the hair and scalp. The texture is surprisingly nongreasy, so a few drops can tame flyaways, add slip, or revive curls between wash days.

Allure associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey before applying the Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Strength & Shine Supreme Oil

Annie Blay-Tettey

Blay-Tettey after applying the Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Strength & Shine Supreme Oil

Annie Blay-Tettey

Tester feedback from associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey

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"I try not to overthink hair oils. Ideally, I just want something that seals moisture into my strands and scalp without leaving it greasy. This oil does just that. I love the nozzle tip which makes it especially easy to apply when I have a protective style in." —Annie Blay-Tettey, associate beauty editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: castor, coconut, almond, and jojoba oils, rosemary, biotin, rice bran, grapeseed, vitamin E
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Styling Foam: Bumble & Bumble Thickening High Drama Styling Foam

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Bumble and Bumble

Thickening High Drama Styling Foam

$35

Ulta Beauty

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Bumble & Bumble Thickening High Drama Styling Foam

Christa Joanna Lee

Why we love it: Thickening. High. Drama. Three words that sound pretty good if your hair likes to fall flat. Bumble and Bumble’s Thickening High Drama Styling Foam gives fine or thinning hair a noticeable lift without veering into crunchy, helmet-hair territory. The airy foam uses the brand’s Strand-Plumping Technology to temporarily expand each strand, helping hair look fuller and more voluminous. Rice peptides add instant body and thickness, while an antioxidant-rich blend with ginger root and resveratrol helps support a healthier scalp environment and defend against external stressors. It also features caffeine, which is a helpful ingredient in thinning-hair products because it can help counter some of the hormonal factors that contribute to hair loss and support the follicles where hair growth begins, says Dr. Vieira. It even doubles as a heat protectant, making it especially handy before a blowout.

Lee before applying the Bumble & Bumble Thickening High Drama Styling Foam

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Bumble & Bumble Thickening High Drama Styling Foam

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“My hair probably doesn’t look like it’s thinning, but I had at least twice as much of it seven years ago, pre-kids. Lately, I’ve been shedding in clumps, so I’m doing everything I can to make what’s left look as full as possible. The first time I used Bumble & Bumble’s Thickening High Drama Styling Foam, my hair was a little too air-dried and it didn't distribute as properly as it should—but on properly damp hair (as directed), it’s a different story. As I blow-dry, it gives just enough grip with my round brush to really lift at the roots and build volume where I need it most. There’s a slight hold, too, so the fullness sticks around until my next wash.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: rice peptides, caffeine, ginger root, resveratrol
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Root Cover: Madison Reed The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up + Brow Filler

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Madison Reed

The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up + Brow Filler

$36

Amazon

$36

Ulta Beauty

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Madison Reed The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up + Brow Filler in Ombra Dark Brown

Shanna Shipin

Why we love it: Even though Madison Reed The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up + Brow Filler is technically designed to conceal gray roots and fill in brows, this 2024 Best of Beauty Award winner can also double as makeup, concealing areas where you have sparse hair growth (like around the temples and along the hairline). Once you apply it with the included brush (or spoolie, if you want to be extra-precise), it won't budge—and can even withstand rain and sweat. It also comes in six shades, so most people can find a passable match—and no one will be the wiser.

Shipin before applying the Madison Reed The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up + Brow Filler in Ombra Dark Brown

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after applying the Madison Reed The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up + Brow Filler in Ombra Dark Brown

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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"After both of my pregnancies, I dealt with a horrifying amount of hair loss, and nothing worked better for me than simply applying hair makeup to my scalp to cover up the bald spots. My biggest area of concern was my hairline, which receded so far back that every time I looked in the mirror, my face just appeared off. I used this Madison Reed cover-up for both of my fourth trimesters, and loved how easy it was to powder a hairline back onto my scalp. The product has great staying powder, and easily comes out in the shower (I'd suggest a detox shampoo to really lift it out of your roots). I love that the brush helps seamlessly blend the powder into my scalp, and that it comes with a really great brow brush and spoolie to tackle your brows at the same time!" —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: keratin, argan oil, ginseng root extract
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Scalp Serum: Nécessaire The Scalp Serum

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Nécessaire

The Scalp Serum

$48

Amazon

$48

Sephora

McGrath applying the Nécessaire The Scalp Serum

Kara McGrath

Why we love it: If your part’s looking wider or your ponytail feels a little wimpy, Nécessaire’s The Scalp Serum might be your new, low-maintenance fix. This lightweight, fragrance-free formula features 5% capixyl—a blend of red clover extract and a peptide that helps reduce shedding and promote thicker-looking strands. “Some studies have shown it can be just as effective as 3% minoxidil,” New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Michelle Henry, MD, told Allure. But unlike minoxidil, it carries a lower risk of irritation or unwanted facial hair, making it a smart choice for sensitive scalps. It’s also approved by the National Eczema Association, which speaks to how gentle it is. To top it off, the serum includes hyaluronic acid, biotin, and niacinamide to keep your scalp calm, hydrated, and thriving, so your hair can live its best, fullest life.

McGrath before applying the Nécessaire The Scalp Serum

Kara McGrath

McGrath after applying the Nécessaire The Scalp Serum for four months

Kara McGrath

Tester feedback from McGrath

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“[At first,] I did not have high hopes. But then, several months in, my hair started to feel…different. It took two hands to hold it all. My ponytails started to more closely resemble that of the equines they’re named for: thick (for me), shiny, and bouncy. The length, which had previously seemed to tap out just below my collarbones, was reaching mid-boob territory.” —Kara McGrath, former content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: capixyl, hyaluronic acid, biotin, niacinamide
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Mask: Ryo Damage Care & Nourishing Treatment

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Ryo

Damage Care & Nourishing Treatment

$19

Amazon

$23

Yesstyle

Why we love it: For those new to K-beauty hair care, it’s all about healthy hair, starting with the scalp. Take Ryo’s Damage Care & Nourishing Treatment. While it smooths and revives damaged strands with nourishing ingredients like pomegranate and camellia oil extracts, the real focus is on what’s happening at the root. Korean ginseng extract and caffeine help support a healthier scalp environment, while rice from Yeoju—an especially nutrient-dense variety grown in mineral-rich soil—adds softness and strength from the root through the lengths. Worried about applying a rich mask near the scalp? “Most masks can clog follicles, but Ryo is designed to touch the scalp,” says Cherin Choi, a hairstylist and colorist based in Los Angeles, noting that it helps lift weak hair while keeping the scalp balanced.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: pomegranate extract, camellia oil, rice, ginseng, caffeine
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Volume: Oribe Maximista Thickening Spray

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Oribe

Maximista Thickening Spray

$42

Amazon

$42

Nordstrom

Why we love it: If you’re after maximum volume and thickness, look no further than Oribe—the brand stylists swear by for big, bouncy blowouts and that unmistakable luxury finish—with its Maximista Thickening Spray. It’s packed with thickening copolymers to pump up the volume and lock it in, plus amino acids to keep hair strong and moisturized. And because Oribe always goes the extra mile, its signature complex protects against environmental stressors, while built-in heat protection keeps your hair safe from hot tools. If your thinning hair is also prone to frizz, the cetrimonium chloride in this spray provides conditioning and anti-static powers—making it especially helpful for curly hair.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: amino acids, thickening copolymers, cetrimonium chloride
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Mousse: R+Co Rodeo Star Thickening Style Foam

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R+Co

Rodeo Star Thickening Style Foam

$38

Amazon

$38

Dermstore

Why we love it: Creating voluminous hair starts in the shower, but to keep that full, bouncy look going, the right styling products are key, like R+Co Rodeo Star Thickening Style Foam. “This styling foam delivers quick, nonsticky fullness with a soft, touchable feel,” says Petrut. It incorporates skin care-inspired ingredients, like vitamin E to deeply condition hair, kiwi fruit extract to help maintain moisture balance, and aloe vera leaf extract to minimize breakage and add shine, to give hair a fuller, bouncier look. If bold volume is what you’re after, this is your go-to.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: vitamin E, kiwi fruit extract, aloe leaf extract
• Fragrance-free: no

Frequently asked questions

What is the best-proven product for thinning hair?

If you’re experiencing hair thinning, the right products can make a big difference. The best approach focuses on hair growth, scalp health, and follicle strength. “Minoxidil is the most tried-and-true ingredient for hair loss and thinning,” says Dr. Mislankar. (You might recognize it as the main ingredient in Rogaine, which is a minoxidil foam.)

Other ingredients like “biotin, caffeine, rosemary oil, and niacinamide have also been shown to promote the temporary appearance of hair thickness,” says Jae-Manuel Cardenas, a New York City-based hairstylist, who recommends root lifters, volumizing products, and other hairstyle formulas to temporarily deliver fuller hair.

Hair-growth supplements are a dime a dozen, but dermatologists don’t agree on how much they can really help. And since they can come with side effects, it’s important to talk to your doctor first.

Can hair grow back after thinning?

Hair can grow back after thinning, but it depends on the cause. “In some cases, like telogen effluvium—temporary hair shedding caused by stress, illness, or hormonal changes—hair often grows back on its own with time and patience,” says Dr. Mislankar. (For instance, minoxidil won’t do a whole lot for postpartum hair loss, which is caused by hormone changes during and after pregnancy.)

However, if thinning is due to androgenetic alopecia (hereditary hair loss, or female-pattern hair loss), long-term treatments like medications or procedures are usually needed to maintain new growth. “While waiting for hair to regrow, avoiding excessive heat styling or harsh chemicals helps prevent further damage. Volumizing shampoos, leave-in treatments, and proper styling techniques can also make hair appear fuller in the meantime,” she says.

What are the “Big 3” for thinning hair?

The big three for thinning hair are minoxidil, finasteride, and ketoconazole. “They each play a special part in encouraging hair growth. Minoxidil works by widening blood vessels in your scalp, boosting circulation so more nutrients reach your hair follicles—helping to spark new growth and keep shedding in check. Finasteride blocks an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase—the one that turns testosterone into DHT (a.k.a. the hormone that makes hair follicles shrink and leads to thinning). Less DHT means your follicles stay active longer, helping to keep your hair where it belongs. Ketoconazole isn’t just for fighting fungus—it also helps mitigate scalp inflammation, one of the culprits behind hair loss. Research suggests it has mild anti-androgenic properties, meaning it may help minimize DHT’s impact on hair follicles,” says Dr. Mislankar. Together, they can create the ideal foundation for new hair growth.

Meet the experts

• Sherry Backman, a cosmetic chemist based in Brattleboro, Vermont
• Jae-Manuel Cardenas, a senior hairstylist at Ollin Salon NYC by Johnny Ramirez, based in New York City
• Cherin Choi, a hairstylist and colorist based in Los Angeles
• Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan, based in New York City
• Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Salmalita Cosmetics, based in Chicago
• Jerome Lordet, founder and owner of Jerome Lordet Salon, based in New York City
• Sanda Petrut, a stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago
• Carlos Vieira, a board-certified dermatologist at The Dermatology Specialists based in Philadelphia

How we test and review products

We always enlist a range of testers for our makeup vertical, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While there are certainly products that can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and needs, hair products are often created with specific consumers in mind. Many are created in order to address a concern (dandruff, breakage, brittleness) or to work most effectively for a specific hair type (4C curls, wavy hair, gray hair). You wouldn’t want to pick up a purple shampoo that’s only been reviewed by someone with, say, auburn hair, or a diffuser that’s never been tested by anyone with curls—right?

For our review of the best products for thinning hair, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and hair experts—many of whom want shinier, healthier-looking hair. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture and experience, fragrance, and packaging. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

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Taking the extra step to prep with one of the best primers for mature skin before getting glam can make a big, hydrating difference. If you're not already a self-identified primer lover, these formulas do way more than help your makeup last all day—they also promote plumper skin, soften fine lines, and boost glow.

Especially as aging faces undergo the hormonal changes of menopause, primers with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide can deliver plenty of benefits, helping base makeup apply more evenly on top while keeping skin radiant. Get the low-down on the best primers for mature skin here, plus insight from cosmetic chemists and makeup artists to achieve your longest-lasting looks yet.

Our Top Primers for Mature Skin

• Best Overall: Hourglass Illusion Priming Moisturizer, $58
• Best for Dull Skin: Chanel La Base Illuminatrice Glowing Makeup Primer, $56
• Best for Oily Skin: Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder, $39
• Best Drugstore: e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer, $11

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What are the benefits of a primer for mature skin?
• How should I choose a primer for mature skin?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Hourglass Illusion Priming Moisturizer

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Hourglass

Illusion Priming Moisturizer

$58

Bluemercury

Why it’s worth it: For mature skin, the best face primer isn’t just about helping makeup last (though this one does)—it’s about creating a smoother, more hydrated base that won’t call attention to fine lines or dryness. Hourglass’s Illusion Priming Moisturizer has a silky, lightweight formula that “creates a diffusing effect on mature skin,” says New York City-based makeup artist Rebecca Restrepo.

Squalane, ceramides, and sweet almond oil replenish moisture and support the barrier, while multiple forms of hyaluronic acid plump and soften the look of wrinkles. Niacinamide and adenosine also work together to brighten, smooth, and improve overall texture.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: squalane, ceramides, sweet almond oil, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, adenosine
• Who it's for: people with dry skin and fine lines
• Longevity: not specified
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Dry Skin: Bobbi Brown Face Base Moisturizer and Primer

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Bobbi Brown

Vitamin Enriched Face Base

$69

Amazon

$69

Nordstrom

$69

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Vitamin-rich, creamy, and so hydrating, Bobbi Brown's Face Base Moisturizer and Primer checks all of our boxes. This Best of Beauty Award-winning formula is packed with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, squalane, and shea butter to nourish your skin and keep your makeup in place all day. It smells terrific, too, with no synthetics necessary, thanks to natural grapefruit extract.

"This is a must-have in my kit for mature skin; it acts as a moisturizer and a primer in one," says New York City-based makeup artist Kasey Spickard. “It's essential that you're hydrating and plumping aging skin to give it a fresh, dewy glow.”

Tester feedback from senior director of commerce audience & analytics Lexi Herrick

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“This takes hydrating primers to a different level. It's an absolute powerhouse of a base product, packed with vitamins and nutrients. With a gentle scent and creamy, soft texture, it glides over my skin and absorbs instantly. My skin is breakout-prone and can be irritated by oily primers, but this hydrates and holds without sparking a breakout. It keeps my makeup in place all day and prevents foundation from drying out my skin.” —Lexi Herrick, senior director of audience development

More to know

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• Key ingredients: shea butter, squalane, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C
• Who it's for: people with normal or oily skin
• Longevity: not specified
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Dull Skin: Chanel La Base Illuminatrice Glowing Makeup Primer

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Chanel

La Base Illuminatrice Glowing Makeup Primer

$56

Chanel

$56

Nordstrom

$56

Ulta Beauty

Why it’s worth it: For some of us, we’ll admit it doesn’t take more than the word Chanel to make us ooh and aah. But La Base Illuminatrice Glowing Makeup Primer backs up the buzz. Designed to smooth, hydrate, and subtly illuminate, it’s especially flattering for mature skin with ingredients like plumping hyaluronic acid, antioxidant-rich microalgae, and pearlescent blurring powders.

If you’re worried about too much shimmer, rest assured: “It has gentle light-reflecting pigment that’s super fine—not too sparkly—so it looks natural, gives your skin, and your foundation that inner radiance, youthful glow-from-within look,” says New York City-based makeup artist Nick Barose.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, blue micro-algae, red algae
• Who it's for: everyone, but especially those with dry or dull skin
• Longevity: up to 12 hours
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Oily Skin: Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder

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Danessa Myricks

Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder

$39

Sephora

Why it’s worth it: People often assume mature skin automatically equals dry skin, but that’s not always the case. While oil production can slow with age, hormones, dehydration, and genetics mean many people still deal with shine. For those in that camp, “I love that Danessa Myricks’ Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder doesn’t highlight pores or wrinkles but still leaves the skin looking polished and ready for foundation,” says Kayla Shantal, a makeup artist based in Las Vegas. The balm-to-powder formula uses upsalite and kaolin clay to control excess oil while creating a smooth, matte base.

That's not all: Hyaluronic acid adds lightweight hydration, while olive-derived squalane locks it in so your skin doesn’t fall flat. Every swipe of this 2023 Best of Beauty Award winner gets you a blurred finish that doesn’t cling to texture, and with a versatile shade range—including a universal/clear option—it’s easy to find your match.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: upsalite, squalane, hyaluronic acid, kaolin clay
• Who it's for: people with oily skin
• Shades: 22
• Longevity: not disclosed
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Uneven Texture: Embryolisse Mattifying Moisturizer

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Embryolisse

Mattifying Moisturizer

$33

Amazon

$33

Revolve

Why it’s worth it: Just because it’s not labeled as a primer doesn’t mean it can’t do the job well. Embryolisse’s Mattifying Moisturizer pulls double duty as a texture-refining base, evening things out while also keeping skin comfortably hydrated. “It softens rough patches without feeling tight, and it keeps everything looking natural instead of shiny,” says Shantal.

Fine plant-based powders further blur rough or uneven areas while absorbing excess oil, creating a smoother surface for makeup. At the same time, glycerin and squalane replenish moisture so makeup won’t cling to dry spots, and turmeric extract improves the look of uneven tone.

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• Key ingredients: plant-based powder, glycerin, squalane, turmeric extract
• Who it's for: people with uneven texture or tone
• Longevity: not disclosed
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Drugstore: e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer

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E.L.F. Cosmetics

Power Grip Primer

$11

Amazon

$11

Ulta Beauty

Why it’s worth it: It used to feel like primers sucked the life out of your skin—after all, how can makeup really stay put on a dewy base? The trick to e.l.f. Cosmetics’ Power Grip Primer is letting the lightweight gel set for about 30 seconds before applying makeup. From there, it creates that signature tacky (but not sticky) grip that locks everything in place without flattening your glow.

What makes it especially appealing for mature skin is its ability to balance hold with hydration. “It has hyaluronic acid, which helps the appearance of skin look smoother,” says Restrepo. “The gel also acts like a veil on the skin, so it doesn’t look heavy or settle into fine lines,” she adds. Glycerin and niacinamide add moisture and smooth texture, while rosemary and peppermint leaf waters lend a subtle toning effect and a fresh, cooling feel with each application.

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide
• Who it's for: everyone, especially people with dry skin
• Longevity: not disclosed
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Large Pores: Tatcha The Liquid Silk Canvas Primer

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Tatcha

The Liquid Silk Canvas Primer

$55

Amazon

$55

Ulta Beauty

$55

Tatcha

Why it's worth it: Nashville-based makeup artist Emily Gray sings the praises of Tatcha's The Liquid Silk Canvas, calling it "the most lightweight primer" she's ever used. A blurring primer infused with silk extract, it hydrates while softening the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles. "It locks down base makeup for hours of wear, does not alter your foundation pigment, and works with both water-based and cream foundations,” adds Daniel Martin, a New York City-based makeup artist and Tatcha’s global director of artistry. It also contains pink and gold pearl powders that even out and brighten the skin.

But the coolest part? This primer is inspired by traditional Japanese beauty routines, namely bintsuke, a thin layer of soft wax that geisha use under their makeup to create a smooth, grippy canvas.

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• Key ingredients: silk extract, green tea, algae extract
• Who it's for: everyone, especially those targeting texture, pores, or fine lines
• Longevity: not specified
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Lightweight: Tarte Base Tape Hydrating Primer

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Tarte

Base Tape Hydrating Primer

$34

Amazon

$34

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Launched on the heels of Tarte’s Shape Tape Concealer's massive success, Base Tape Hydrating Primer was designed to deliver the same smooth, perfected finish to your prep step. Infused with moisturizing jojoba, coconut, and vitamin E, it replenishes thirsty skin and leaves it baby-soft. Meanwhile, soothing Centella asiatica (more commonly known as cica) helps tackle fine lines and boost skin’s elasticity.

In other words, skin-care lovers, this one's for you. It's like applying a moisturizer, but it also helps your makeup stay put all day," New York- and New Jersey-based makeup artist Nydia Figueroa says. " Heads-up: There’s a faint scent of coconut, so if you're fragrance-sensitive, this might not be the one for you.

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• Key ingredients: coconut, jojoba, Centella asiatica
• Who it's for: those with dry skin
• Longevity: up to 12 hours
• Fragrance-free: no

Best with SPF: Charlotte Tilbury Invisible UV Flawless Primer SPF 50

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Charlotte Tilbury

Invisible UV Flawless Primer SPF 50

$55

Nordstrom

$55

Ulta Beauty

Why it’s worth it: While we’re not exactly chasing “flawless” skin over here (we’re very much about embracing what makes you, you), we’re also not mad at anything that helps makeup look a little smoother and more even. We always suggest applying a separate layer of sunscreen underneath your makeup, but an SPF-infused primer can add some extra protection against UV rays (and we’d never say no to that).

Charlotte Tilbury’s Invisible UV Flawless Primer SPF 50 is also made with brightening vitamin C and hyaluronic acid that hydrates skin for up to 24 hours, according to the brand. Plus, an extract from African mahogany tree bark helps shrink the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles for a super-smooth base.

​​Tester feedback from contributor Jennifer Hussein

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“My biggest beauty flaw is that I constantly forget to apply sunscreen (a total skin sin, I know), but I don't have to fret about that when I have Charlotte Tilbury's Invisible UV Flawless Primer SPF 50 in my makeup bag. Not only does it provide sun protection, but it also grips my complexion products in place all day long while feeling totally weightless on my skin.” —Jennifer Hussein, contributor

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, vitamins C and E, shea butter, camellia seed oil
• Who it's for: all skin types
• Longevity: moisturizes for up to 24 hours
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Lips: Sarah Creal Lip Grip Peptide Priming Treatment

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Sarah Creal

Lip Grip Peptide Priming Treatment

$36

Sephora

Model Marnie Herald applying the Sarah Creal Lip Grip Peptide Priming Treatment

Marnie Herald

Why it’s worth it: It’s colorless, lightweight, and pocket-sized, but Sarah Creal’s Lip Grip Peptide Priming Treatment has major priming powers and creates the perfect base for any lip color, especially on mature lips. “This is a go-to for clients over 40 because it prevents feathering and keeps lip color in place with honey polymer, which grips onto color for longer wear,” Santa Paula, California-based makeup artist Lindsey Sanchez told Allure. “You can even use it around your mouth to soften the look of fine lines.”

As the name suggests, the formula includes peptides to support collagen and lactic acid to gently exfoliate, helping lipstick glide on effortlessly and look its absolute best.

Herald before applying the Sarah Creal Lip Grip Peptide Priming Treatment

Marnie Herald

Herald after applying the Sarah Creal Lip Grip Peptide Priming Treatment

Marine Herald

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• Key ingredients: peptides, lactic acid
• Who it's for: those with dry lips and fine lines around the mouth
• Longevity: up to 12 hours
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Long-Lasting: Milk Makeup Hydro Grip + Glow Illuminating Primer

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Milk Makeup

Hydro Grip + Glow Illuminating Primer

$30

Amazon

$30

Ulta Beauty

Why it’s worth it: For the right amount of glow (no harsh sparkles or glitter, we promise), there’s the Best of Beauty Award-winning Milk Makeup Hydro Grip + Glow Illuminating Primer. Sister to the brand’s viral Hydro Grip primer, this version pairs hydrating hyaluronic acid and tone-evening niacinamide with light-reflecting pearls for a brightening boost that doesn’t cling to uneven texture in your skin. Blue agave extract helps lock makeup in place for up to 12 hours, while glycerin draws moisture into the skin to keep it looking plump and smooth, softening the appearance of fine lines.

Soothing aloe and cactus flower extracts add a layer of comfort, while hemp seed extract supports the skin barrier. The subtle tint pulls it all together, giving skin a soft radiance that pretty much doubles as a built-in highlighter.

Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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“As a self-proclaimed professional concert-goer, I need something to make my makeup last. This slick goo goes on to feel weightless and—like the name says—grips makeup through dancing, sweating, and scream-singing. My foundation and heavy liner always look pristine after a three-to four-hour show.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: aloe leaf water, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, glycerin, cactus flower, hemp seed
• Who it's for: dull, dry skin
• Longevity: up to 12 hours
• Fragrance-free: no

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of a primer for mature skin?

The best makeup primers for mature skin are made with gentle ingredients that support the unique beauty of aging skin. "More mature skin is often in need of a hydration boost, so humectants like glycerin, betaine, and hyaluronic acid are beneficial," Cincinnati-based cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos explains. Along with nourishing your skin, a high-quality primer boosts the effectiveness of your other makeup products, creating a smooth, long-lasting base that locks in hydration and wears well. "Think of primer as double-sided tape for the face," says Figueroa. "It locks in skin care, keeps your makeup in place, and prevents it from creasing or settling into fine lines and wrinkles."

"The primary ingredients in most primers are silicone elastomers," says Dobos. "Elastomers are flexible polymers that can be pulled and stretched without breaking. They also have good adhesion to the skin and are responsible for the grip primers have on pigments." She explains that these polymers also scatter light, which is responsible for that beloved blurring effect.

How should I choose a primer for mature skin?

Gray recommends focusing on hydrating and smoothing ingredients. "Niacinamide is one of my favorite ingredients because it has numerous well-studied and proven benefits, including antioxidant activity, skin tone evening, and the ability to strengthen the skin barrier," Dobos adds. If your skin has gotten oilier with age, Dobos suggests looking for primers with mattifying ingredients. "Many primers contain highly absorptive powder like silica or non-pearlescent mica to maintain a more matte appearance."

You'll also want to read the back of the bottle to avoid a few pesky ingredients that can exacerbate aging-related skin concerns. "Avoid formulations that contain stripping ingredients and unnecessary oils," Gray warns, as these can emphasize signs of mature skin. Opt for a lightweight primer that won't settle into fine lines or wrinkles, creating a smooth canvas for foundation and concealer.

Meet the experts

• Nick Barose, a makeup artist based in New York City
• Kelly Dobos, a cosmetic chemist based in Cincinnati
• Nydia Figueroa, a makeup artist based in New York City and New Jersey
• Emily Gray, a makeup artist based in Nashville
• Daniel Martin, a makeup artist and Tatcha’s global director of artistry based in New York City
• Rebecca Restrepo, a makeup artist based in New York City
• Lindsey Sanchez, a makeup artist based in Santa Paula, CA
• Kayla Shantal, a makeup artist and hair extension expert based in Las Vegas
• Kasey Spickard, a makeup artist based in New York City

How we test and review products

Before reviewing any makeup, we ask questions about a number of factors: What ingredients are in it? Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses? Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge? Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?

For our review of the best primers for mature skin, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and makeup artists to review the products. This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions. We considered each product's performance across four primary categories: ingredients, wear and longevity, packaging, and inclusivity. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.