Foundation for mid 30s skin

[crystalcastles]

I've noticed recently that my foundation seems to sit in my pores and on my skin without blending well. It's not the product as I've tried different ones and have applied with various brushes/sponges/fingers. I don't wear a lot of it so it's bugging me that it looks so cakey. I think my skin has changed post pregnancy and now I'm no longer in my 20s (or even early 30s!). I've always tended to use medium coverage, mattifying products but I think maybe I need something more dewy/radiant now. Does anyone have any recommendations? Ideally I'd still like medium coverage as have some pregnancy pigmentation I'd like to cover a bit, and not too expensive while I'm on mat leave! Thanks

I rate Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser but it’s pretty expensive. I think NYX do a dupe.

What about trying a primer underneath your foundation? Benefit pore perfecter is good or I like max factor colour correction one. Maybe one which promises a Dewey finish will go well with your current foundation? I have also found that a setting spray can help make foundation look more like real skin and less cakey. Just a few ideas if you have found a great foundation with a great colour match but want to sort a few flaws?

Yes try a primer. I use Bare Minerals.

I found I had to start being a lot more careful about exfoliating in my 30s or my makeup wouldn't settle properly. A glycolic acid toner can help.

Oh good tips about primer and exfoliating, thank you! I forgot primer even existed to be honest, I wore so little makeup over lockdown and the newborn baby phase! I think my whole skincare routine probably does need an overhaul now I'm older, skin could definitely do with some TLC.