Which type of foundation is best for dry skin?
Makeup artist Grigorii Ushkov says that the key is all about hydration.
“You want to steer clear of anything matte or long-wearing because those formulas tend to accentuate dry patches and make your skin look textured,” he advises. “Instead, opt for dewy and radiant finishes from creamy or liquid foundations. CC creams or BB creams are also fantastic for lighter coverage with added moisture, and tinted moisturisers are also a great option for a natural look.”
The expert stresses that regardless of what coverage you’re after, hydration needs to be your top priority.
How do you get flawless foundation with dry skin?
Grigorii recommends to start with a solid skincare routine; cleansing, exfoliating a couple of times a week, and following with a good moisturiser.
He then advocates for the importance of a quality primer. “Primer is your secret weapon for dry skin. A hydrating primer creates a smooth base and stops your foundation from settling into fine lines or clinging to dry patches,” he says.
Application is key too. “Use a damp sponge or brush and gently press and blend the foundation into your skin – no harsh rubbing! Build up the coverage slowly, focusing on the areas that need it most, rather than slathering on a thick layer all over.”
Grigorii’s final tip? “Don’t forget a hydrating setting spray! It’ll lock in the moisture and keep your foundation from looking cakey,” he comments.
What ingredients should I look for in a foundation for dry skin?
Grigorii advises to look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane, and ceramides in your foundation.
“These are amazing at attracting and holding onto moisture, which keeps your skin happy and hydrated all day long. Foundations with nourishing oils, like jojoba or argan oil, are also a great choice for dry skin,” he says.
Makeup artist Suzie O’Neill adds to avoid foundations containing drying agents such as denatured alcohol, as they can exacerbate dryness and lead to flakiness. “A product like the Fresh Skin Foundation from Ayu Cosmetics is ideal, as it’s a super lightweight and enriched with hyaluronic acid, instantly hydrating the skin for flawless, lasting wear and an effortlessly smooth application. By selecting such hydrating foundations and ensuring your skin is well-prepped, you can maintain a smooth, radiant complexion throughout the day,” she says.
And Hayley Walker, makeup artist at Justmylook, adds to avoid fragrance, salicylic acid, and parabens. “These ingredients can exacerbate dry skin by stripping the skin’s natural oils, causing irritation and flakiness. This can affect the skin’s appearance and texture, while impacting how the foundation sits on the face,” she reveals.
