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28 Beauty Products Reviewers Over 50 Wished They’d Known About Sooner
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We hope you love our recommendations! While every product is independently chosen by our editors, BuzzFeed and our publishing partners may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. You can read more about how our affiliate partnerships work in our Editorial Standards & Ethics Guide. Because nobody puts Baby in a corner and nobody tells YOU that you can’t find a new holy grail beauty product. I might not be 50+ quite yet, but you can bet your bottom dollar that I WILL still be using this stuff when I get there. These shades are SO easy to apply, and I love how subtle they are while still making me feel like I actually accomplished something by applying them. I've got the Active Bright shade, and I'm actively eyeballing the raspberry next! Promising reviews: "Yes, it is expensive, but it is worth it. I am 72 years old and have always loved nail polish. As I have grown older, I keep my nails shorter and was looking for a polish to strengthen with a tint of color. Honestly, it is perfect, and I love it. I got the Glow Blueberry and want to order more of this polish." —Deedle bug "Love the look! I’m 75 and do my own nails. I don’t like fancy, but I do like attractive nails. This is the blueberry shade. Just gives my nails a nice pink tone. Will buy again." —Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $19 (available in six shades). Promising review: "I am a 70-year-old woman with all the skin issues those years bring: fine lines and wrinkles, skin discoloration, uneven skin tone, and dry patches. This oil is lightweight, absorbs nicely, and has a fairly pleasant smell, although a bit flowery. The main thing is it works. I could tell a difference in my skin the first week of use. My skin is hydrated and glowing, and the overall tone has improved considerably. Believe me when I say I have used a lot of serums, oils, and moisturizers over the years. I wish I had found this oil years ago." —Connie J Get it from Amazon for $10.49+ (available in three sizes). Just presoak your feet, apply the gel, let sit for 5–10 minutes, and rinse! It's recommended you go back in afterward with a foot file just to make sure no residue or dead skin is left behind. Promising review: "I followed the instructions from many of the 5-star reviews, and everything worked better than I expected. I sat on the side of the tub and soaked my feet (while reading and sipping wine). I used a pumice stone on my feet while they were soft — then I PUT ON A PAIR OF GLOVES — and generously applied the gel. Then pumice stone after the rinse and washed — I had baby soft heels — better than getting a pedi. I will forever use this product — my only regret is not having found it sooner. Btw I’m a 65-year-old grandmother, and it was super easy." —Caribare Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in three scents). Promising reviews: "OMG, what can I say? This stuff is great! I've had dark circles since I was in my 20s, and now, in my 50s, I find this product! Love it! Dark circles are gone! Puffy eyes are gone by the time it dries! My eyes look more lively!" —lida Sadati "I really love this eye cream. It feels so soothing going on. I apply it every morning and at bedtime. My mature skin just soaks it up. I just wish I found this sooner." —JOJOinTN Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in three sizes). Promising review: "I am 67 years old and have very dry skin. I always had trouble exfoliating my skin to my satisfaction. The very first time I used it, I was disgusted by how much dead skin I was able to remove! My skin felt so soft afterward! I use the mitt once a week and have less dead skin to remove. I absolutely love this mitt! Wish I had known about it sooner!" —Sweetwriter Get it from Amazon for $10.99+ (available in five colors). Read more about ketoconazole shampoo at Cleveland Clinic. Promising review: "This is without a doubt the best dandruff shampoo ever. I am 50 years old and have had a very bad, dry scalp and even face and ears dry skin all my life. I have tried everything on this side of the moon without any success until now. This stuff truly works and is amazing I literally put it on my face and even in my ears where I’ve always had problems with dry skin and after even the first use I saw amazing results. No more itching, no more flaking. I can actually wear a black shirt now with confidence, no flakes to worry about. I truly highly recommend this product. Where was it when I was a teenager and had to endure many embarrassing moments? Thank you so so much for this shampoo. It’s worth every last penny!" —stacy Promising review: "I’m a 66-year-old wine and coffee lover with yellowing teeth. I’ve tried every tooth-whitening product to brighten my smile to no avail…until now. After two weeks, I am seeing amazing results, and I’m very impressed. It does cause some tooth sensitivity, so follow the instructions carefully to minimize the sensitivity." —E. Addison Promising review: "I'm over 50 and have thinning hair, so I need help with volume! Recently cut my hair short after a decade of the same long, no real style hair, and my stylist suggested this. Man! I could have used this years ago! She recommend to use it very lightly and she was right. I blow out my hair after lightly misting some volumizing leave-in conditioning spray while it's wet. Once dry, I make the waves and curls with my flat iron. Then I lift a few sections at the top of my scalp and sprinkle it at the root. Massage gently to spread through roots. Be really careful — less is more! It only takes a few sprinkles strategically over the top roots for lift. There is no weird smell, in fact, it's odorless. I apply a little setting/hair spray, and I'm done. So happy with how it gives texture and lift, even on newly washed hair. I highly recommend this." —Denise P. Promising review: "I bought this on the recommendation of an IG dermatologist, Dr. Daniel Sugai, and he wasn't wrong. The texture is amazing. It's SPF 46, which is great. The color is very sheer but does even out my skin tone, it moisturizes, and there's no chalky aspect to it. Smells good too. And the price is incredibly reasonable. I'm 69, with fair skin and wrinkles. I would have worn this in my 20s. It looks natural on my face, which is what I was after, as well as sun protection. It goes on well after serums, too. Recommend highly 10/10." —Dr. R. Evans Get it from Amazon for $31 (available in matte or dewey finishes). Promising review: "This has been the first product I've been able to use on my (and my 98-year-old friend's) thick toenails that actually work. Having arthritis, the grip and sharpness now make this task easy. Would recommend this product to anyone, especially seniors and caregivers like me. The price was more than affordable and wish I had discovered these clippers sooner. I was skeptical after purchasing other clippers over the years but this is excellent." —She She V Promising review: "I don't usually try all the latest hair things because my hair is very fine and it doesn't like product. But I received it as a sample, and I can't believe how nice it made my hair and how long it lasted. I have to wash every single day, or my hair would be limp and lifeless. You could tell if I didn't wash my hair for one day. This miracle stuff makes it so that I don't have to wash my hair for a good three days at least and it still looks fresh. It also lasts between washes, so I only have to use it every other wash or sometimes not for three or four. I can't live without this now that I found it. It took me ’til my 50s to find this amazing product. I sure coulda used this in my 20s!" —B.S. Get it from Amazon for $14+ (available in two sizes). And remember, like with any retinol (that actually works) *just do not use it every day.* Start slow and work yourself up if needed, paying attention to your skin. Promising review: "I am 65-years-old and still have large pores and oily skin. Within a couple of days of applying this at night, I could see a very noticeable difference in the size of the pores on my nose. Pores are no longer clogged with oil! Overall, my ruddy skin looks more refined. It's a bit drying on my skin in the winter, but not a problem for me. I wish I had discovered this product decades ago!" —Lulabelle Still not convinced? Check out our full CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum review for more details. Caffeine can brighten skin and temporarily minimize the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite, if that’s something you’re looking for in a product. Read more about the skincare benefits of caffeine at the Cleveland Clinic. Promising review: "I use a light coat all over after a shower. I'm heading for 60, and I inherited my family’s crepey skin. Nothing has really worked after the first hour, but this was amazing! My skin looked more for my age instead of an 80-year-old's. It isn’t dry and flaky anymore. Got one for my 86-year-old mother, whose calves looked like molted snake skin. No more flakes! Day after day! I use it on damp skin after my shower." —VERONICA Get it from Amazon for $24+ (available in three sizes and multipacks). Promising review: "I'm a 54-year-old male and never thought I'd be writing a review for soap, but this stuff has been a godsend. I began dealing with adult acne/cysts/nodules about 10 years ago. The only thing that helped was antibiotics until now. Using this product twice a day has eliminated everything. I'm not claiming to have perfect skin, but this has worked better than anything the dermatologists ever prescribed." —JAMES E GODFREY Promising review: "I can't say enough good things about this product. It took 50 years to find something to turn my naturally curly/frizzy, high-maintenance mess into low-maintenance, fabulous curls with body and shine. I get tons of compliments on how my hair looks and smells. For the first time EVER, my hair is manageable and easy to style. I can even wash and run if I want to — which was impossible before using this product. I won't go a day without it! I recommend it to all my friends with natural curls or permed hair." —Amazon Customer Promising reviews: "Perfect for this 62-year-old face. Love it and wish I had found it sooner." —Judy Clark "LOVE!!!!! I am so happy I decided to give this a try! After countless products (I’m 50), I have finally found a winner! My skin is super dry. This is not greasy like most I have tried. Also, bonus…PUMP!! It’s like having pants with pockets exciting!! 😂" —Kelly Jo Promising review: "I’m 53 years old, and it took me this long to find such a great product. Loved everything about this cleanser. The smell is terrific and feels great on my skin. Removes all makeup (lash glue too)." —Whyukry Anyway, watch this TikTok of someone using it on their lips AND cheeks and ~prepare to be amazed~. Promising review: "Truly timeless — first time I wore it was in the '70s!!! Thrilled when it was re-continued! Magically universal. Got SO many compliments. I am a pale, blue-eyed blonde, 70 years old. I gave one to a friend, mixed-race, dark brunette, 50-ish, and it was great on her. And her friends loved it and got it for themselves. Have given to others, it really looks terrific on everyone. Also, it's a terrific balm. I would give it more stars if possible. Believe all the other positive reviews!!!" —Descalzada Get it from Amazon for $20 (also available in nude and pink honey versions). Promising review: "I am 54 years old with curly hair that gets dyed regularly. Outside of a salon, I've never been able to tame the curls and frizz to my liking. Either the product used left my hair feeling crunchy and stiff, or it weighed my hair down so much that it looked unwashed and greasy. Finally, finally, finally, a product that makes my hair feel soft and tames my frizzies. I love this stuff. Where has it been all my life? I have medium-length hair, so I put in five pumps and work it throughout my hair and style as I do so, using my hands and fingers. It keeps the look all day. No fuss, no muss. Love this stuff." —Cheryl Get it from Amazon for $4.22 (also available in a two-pack). The color-adaptive formula is designed so one of four shades will work on any skin tone. Promising reviews: "This Catrice Under Eye Brightner/Concealer is a hit for me. I am 80 yrs old with blue darkening under my eyes. This product (Light Rose) smooths well under my eyes and in the very deep wells at my inside corners. It does not dry quickly, so I dust the area lightly with translucent face powder. Tinted sunscreen is already in place, acting as a foundation. I just love how this product both conceals and lightens without settling into lines and wrinkles. Particularly, I like how it widens my eyes by minimizing the interior corners. Since I do not wear mascara, I have no idea how it works with lash coverage." —Mary "I am 67 years old, and this is the only product that really works. It covers my dark circles great and blends in with my makeup. I'm very light-skinned, and coverage is great. I wear it all day with no creases. very good product for older women that have dark under-eye circles." —Vickie Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in four shades). Promising reviews: "I'm 70 years old and haven't found a product that makes my face look smooth and natural in years! This cream is a game-changer for me! I love it so much!" —Karyn D. "Magic. This is the only thing I use for makeup now. I LOVE it! Lightweight, sheer, and good coverage. How that green turns into the perfect skin tone is truly magic. I showed my 50-year-old daughter, who will only wear special million-dollar makeup, and she liked it so much she ordered it and gets compliments on her makeup now. She doesn't wear any other makeup over it either." —Basil Get it from Amazon for $10.97 (available in five styles). Learn more about different kinds of eye drops and what they can do at the Cleveland Clinic. Note that eye drops can potentially mask symptoms of eye conditions, so you should talk to your eye doctor about what's right for you. And according to Mayo Clinic, you should avoid redness-reducing drops if you're looking for dry eye relief. Promising review: "Good for 72-year-old eyes. I asked my doctor if these drops were safe, and he said they were the best." —Amazon Customer Read more about how biotin shampoo could help with the fullness of hair at the Cleveland Clinic. Maple Holistics is a small business that specializes in beauty products with all-natural ingredients. Check out a TikTok of the biotin shampoo in action. Promising review: "I highly recommend this shampoo for anyone who wants to make their hair look thicker, and to nourish their hair at the same time. I was using another shampoo and was happy with it, but on an impulse, decided to try this Biotin Rosemary Shampoo. I'm so glad I did, because this shampoo is soooo much better! My thinning hair actually looks lush, and for someone who is 70+ years old, that's saying something! Give it a try; I think you'll be pleased with the results!" —Annie Nik Get it from Amazon for $14.95+ (available in four sizes, six scents, and a two-pack). Clean Skin Club is a US-based small business specializing in hygienic, vegan, and cruelty-free skincare products. Promising review: "I really debated on purchasing, thinking it would be a waste of money. I am surprised by the thickness and good quality of the towels. No scent, which is a plus, perfect facial size, flawless design. My 59-year-old skin loves it." —Michelle WT Get a pack of 50 from Amazon for $17.95 (also available in other quantities). Promising review: "I purchased this product a few weeks ago, and I have to say that so far I’m very pleased. I can already tell that some of the dark places on my face have gotten lighter. I feel that my face is much brighter, and I’m 73 years old. It can only get better." —Teresa Anderson Get it from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in two sizes). Promising reviews: "Works on this 59-year-old woman who has gray hair that sticks up like antennas to the sky! Dang, get yourselves some!" —Cschell66 Promising review: "I'm 65, but this makes my skin glow like a 40-year-old. I love this stuff. I stumbled upon it at a store, but now I have one in my makeup drawer, one in my travel kit, and two more in reserve because I would hate to run out. I dab it across my cheeks and nose after I've applied my makeup to give my skin a nice glow. I get so many compliments on my skin." —Amazon-a-holic Get it from Amazon for $13.03+ (available in six shades and multipacks). Promising review: "I have been using the Anua Heartleaf 77 Soothing Toner for over a year now, and I love how it makes my skin look. I am 54 years old and have mature, dry skin. This toner soothes and hydrates as stated. There is no scent, it is not tacky, and it does not irritate my skin. This is the first toner I use in my skincare routine, morning and night. I ran out of this a month ago, and I noticed my skin was feeling dehydrated and unbalanced. I repurchased this during Prime Day and immediately started using it again. I will continue repurchasing this toner." —amy currie Get it from Amazon for $19.69+ (available in two styles). * *Psst* — These 37 Beauty Products Are All The Rage Right Now, In Case You Weren’t Aware * Beauty Products That Reviewers Say They’ll Be Using “Forever” * Sensitive Skin–Friendly Beauty Products You’ll Be So Glad You Own * Korean Beauty Products You Probably Haven’t Heard Of Yet But Should Totally Try This Spring * Problem-Solving Beauty Products For Those Issues You Didn’t Even Know Had Legit Solutions * Beauty Products That'll Help With Upkeep Without Costing A Fortune * Beauty Products That Work So Well, Reviewers Called Them “Wizardry,” “Sorcery” Or Just Plain “Magic” Plus, waterproof mascaras, and finds from Amazon, Sephora, Ulta, and Walmart. Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity. BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way. Ashley Schumacher is a freelancer who has been writing for BuzzFeed Shopping for over two years with an emphasis on home goods, parenting items and toys, beauty products, and anything that can make your day-to-day life run a little smoother.