In this video I did one of my favorite tests: makeup alternatives that actually perform on mature skin. I had four products on my face (one side high-end, one side drugstore) and I asked you to guess which was which before I revealed it. I also purposely skipped powder at first so you could see everything “true to form,” then I lightly toned down my glow with my Kosas powder. I compared the NARS Light Reflecting Foundation to the Wet n Wild Photo Focus Dewy Foundation and, honestly, the finish and coverage are shockingly similar—medium coverage, natural-looking, and never heavy or cakey. Then I moved into cream bronzer sticks: Rare Beauty Warm Wishes vs the Maybelline Lifter Stix. Texture-wise they’re very close, but I actually prefer the Maybelline because it’s so multi-purpose (I even use a lighter shade as foundation) and I find it a little creamier. I also shared a highlighter alternative (Makeup by Mario Soft Glow vs L’Oréal Infallible Highlighter) and two lip dupes: Morphe Hydro-PLUMP Matte vs Milani Fetish Matte, plus Lancôme Butter Glow Lip Balm vs Revlon Super Lustrous Glass Shine Balm. My big takeaway: you don’t have to spend a fortune to get smoothing, hydrating, flattering makeup over 50—especially when you focus on formula and how it wears on texture and fine lines.