The best way to look after dry skin is to treat it from lots of different angles—including with a diet rich in omegas, keeping central heating low, and applying as many hydrating products as possible. That means using a nourishing cleanser, a hyaluronic acid serum, a tip-top moisturiser and the best foundation for dry skin. Armed with the right formula, the best foundation can deliver a hit of moisture to your skin while simultaneously bathing it in a veil of pigment.
While the best foundation for oily skin has totally different requirements, according to Kay Montano, Chanel make-up artist, the best foundation for dry skin “isn’t drying, won’t accentuate fine lines, dry skin, or any rough patches. Instead, it will allow the skin to look natural while providing coverage, and a smooth glowing complexion.”
How to apply foundation when you have dry skin
How you apply is as crucial as what you apply—and preparation is key too. Foundation is much less likely to gather on dry patches if they aren’t there to begin with.
Montano agrees that it’s all in the prep. “The best way to fix or help dry skin is to make sure you’re hydrated and exfoliate regularly (often dry areas of skin are just dead skin). If your skin feels dry all over, you’re either dehydrated or not using the right moisturiser for your skin type. Remember to layer your skincare with a serum underneath a rich moisturiser to help rehydrate the skin.”
In fact, make-up artist and beauty journalist, Madeleine Spencer suggests using these application tips:
- “Tap rather than rub foundation onto dry skin, the idea being that you stipple it onto areas which need coverage.”
- “Remember you don’t need to apply a blanket of foundation but rather ensure it’s where it needs to be.”
- “If it starts to gather slightly, press those areas to help redistribute the foundation.”
How I tested all the best foundations for dry skin
As someone with extremely dry skin, I’m always on the lookout for a foundation that makes my skin look and feel dewy throughout the day. The trouble with my dry skin is that it’s so often crying out for moisture-rich creams that certain foundations just can’t handle my needs. I often use one of the best tinted moisturisers, as I feel like I’m getting that extra hit of hydration. However, they don’t always provide enough coverage, so I need a foundation that can offer me both: hydration and adequate coverage.
While each of the below are different in finish and coverage levels, I made sure that they all had these things in common:
- They are all hydrating
- They all keep skin moist over a long period
- They don’t excessively gather in dry areas
- They last and last
Best for long-lasting coverage
(Image credit: Chantecaille)
This oil-free protective gel foundation contains 60% charged water and seaweed extracts and has the unique ability to transfer water into the skin and prevent water evaporation. Which is exactly what you want from a foundation for dry skin.
I used this foundation on my wedding day and my skin looked glowy and hydrated even at the end of the day when I had consumed more champagne than I care to divulge.
Best for a real hydration hit
(Image credit: Westman Atelier)
Think of this as a glossy skin tint packed with radiance-boosters and hydration thanks to tsunami oil, pomegranate extract, and ginseng extract.
The best thing about this: even though it’s lightweight and makes skin look radiant, it also doesn’t slide around and stays put over the course of the day.
Best for healthy glow
(Image credit: Suqqu)
If you really want that soft ‘lit from within’ thing: this is the one. Scores of pro make-up artists (including Patsy O’Neill, Holly Willoughby’s favourite) rely on it for soft glow with serious hydration. The secret is the combination of oils and pearlescent pigments, which jointly create a glow which really hangs around.
Best for barely-there coverage
(Image credit: Cult Beauty)
Think skin glaze vs foundation and you’ll know what to expect from this one. While it’s oil-free, it slides easily over dry patches, adding a healthy lustre to skin.
If you have areas which need more coverage, you could try using this all over then returning with a concealer.
Best for glossy skin
(Image credit: Bobbi Brown)
The Intensive Serum Foundation is formulated with skin-loving nutrients, so you feel happy applying it knowing that it’s being kind to your complexion. Offering a high level of SPF 40, this a great one for mature skin and the super-fine pigment won’t settle into fine lines or patches of dry skin.
Best for an everyday, easy-to-fling on base
(Image credit: L’Oréal Paris)
As soon as I tried this for the first time I fell in love. It’s sheer, so won’t suit everyone’s needs, but I love that it gives my complexion a wash of colour whilst also feeling like I’m applying an extra layer of serum.