Jean Smart, 74, swears by this Laura Geller staple for glowing skin — now $17

If you watched Jean Smart at the 77th Emmy Awards last night, you likely noticed her radiant glow — thanks in part to her fourth win for her role in Hacks, and in part to her makeup artist Keith Sayer, who used Laura Geller's Better Than 'Block Skincare-Infused Serum Foundation, a game-changer for mature complexions: 'I wanted Jean Smart to shine with radiant, clean, dewy skin paired with iridescent eyes and a soft, shimmering lip. [This] was my go-to for creating her flawless, red carpet–ready look.' Right now, the foundation he used is on sale for under $17 — more than 50% off.

Why is this a good deal?💰

Let's take this as a blessing from the beauty gods: There is a seriously good sale going on right now at Laura Geller Beauty. This bestselling, award-winning foundation typically retails for $38. Right now it's down to just $17. Even better, if you use the code SPF10 at checkout, you get an additional 10 percent off, bringing it down to $15. That's close to 60 percent off of its original price! If you were wondering why Smart looked so darn good while you were watching the Emmys last night, well, now's the time to add this foundation to your cart.

Why do I need this? 🤔

If you're someone who resists a multi-step makeup routine, you'll appreciate this minimalist makeup hero. Since launching in 2022, this foundation has won over both makeup lovers and beauty editors alike, racking up awards for its lightweight formula, SPF, and skin-friendly ingredients. While I always recommend a dedicated SPF, having one built in is a lifesaver on busy mornings. With SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection, it helps shield against both UVA and UVB rays — so if you want sunscreen and makeup in one step, this delivers.

The coverage is light to medium and buildable, with a natural finish that's perfect for the no-makeup makeup look. Apply it with a brush or just your fingers — ideal for days when you're 'too busy to bother' but still want to look pulled together.

The skin care aspect of Better Than 'Block is also pretty brag-worthy since antioxidant ingredients are always a big plus, especially for mature skin that needs that extra help. It’s packed with niacinamide, a powerhouse antioxidant that's known to protect against pollution, soften signs of aging, minimize pores, even tone and boost moisture while balancing oil. Add in vitamins B5 and E for extra hydration and free-radical defense, and you've got a formula that's makeup, SPF and skin care all rolled into one.

Sayer called Laura Geller Beauty his "go-to for creating Smart's flawless, red carpet–ready look.”

What reviewers say 💬

Compared to the brand’s popular Baked Balance-n-Brighten Powder Foundation, Better Than 'Block is still gaining its own cult following. However, it currently has over 500 reviews on the Laura Geller website with many glowing (no pun intended) five-star ratings praising its light coverage and easy-to-apply formula. (Over 1500 units were sold just this week.)

Pros 👍

One mature skin fan had been struggling to find the best option until they tried Better Than 'Block. "When I use powder, my skin looks very dry and I usually have a really hard time finding the correct color of liquid foundation that doesn't feel heavy. This is PERFECT!!! It is a great shade, it's not heavy and my skin does not look dry. And a bonus of SPF and it does not have an overpowering SPF scent," they wrote.

The SPF, is, unsurprisingly, a beloved feature of this foundation, especially for shoppers who spend a good amount of time outside. "This is my everyday go-to for work because I am a Pre-K teacher and we are outdoors half the time in the sun. This gives me great coverage along with sunscreen for protection," one five-star reviewer wrote.

The travel-friendly foundation was particularly impressive to a couple of globe-trotting reviewers who packed it in their suitcases. "This was a great help in Greece; the SPF certainly stopped me from burning my face. I use this with the primer and setting powder for a very natural finish," wrote one fan. Meanwhile, another reviewer shared: "I bought this for a trip to Italy and put it on each morning. I spent hours outside in the hot sun each day and never even got pink. Works perfect and is not greasy at all. This is my new face sunblock for now on."

A shopper with the autoimmune disease lupus also praised the foundation for its SPF. "This is the only product that combines everything for a busy person and to protect your skin," they wrote. "It's very critical, especially since I have lupus, which makes me sun sensitive. It's quick to apply and has a natural look.”

Cons 👎

Some customers who preferred more ample coverage found that it wasn't the right fit. "I like the feel of this foundation, but it has lighter coverage than I prefer. It seems to wear off throughout the day. Will purchase a heavier coverage foundation next time," wrote one user.

The shade range is also very limited, as there are only six shades to choose from. So, this might not work for those with very fair or deeper skin tones. Some users had difficulty matching the right shade to their skin. "I have been using the Balance-n-Brighten Correcting Foundation in Golden Medium shade for quite a few years and am very happy with it. I ordered the serum foundation in the same shade and it turned out to be much lighter in color. Kind of disappointed as I was hoping to get the same shade," wrote another reviewer.

Shop more Laura Geller Beauty faves on major sale now

Laura Geller is a go-to brand for women over 40 because it's specifically formulated to target mature skin, so whether you think Better Than 'Block is the right foundation for you or you want to try something else, now is the time. The brand's website is having a sitewide sale of up to 40 percent off (or more, in the case of Better Than 'Block), so stock up while you can on these popular products.