Makeup for Dry Skin: How to Prep and Apply

Dewy, glowing skin might be on trend, but for dry skin types the look can be hard to achieve. For those whose skin perennially appears dry by end of day, don’t give up hope. A makeup routine for dry skin needs to follow a few specific steps, but with the right formulas in place, you’ll be your most radiant self all day.

The best makeup for dry skin contains nourishing and plumping ingredients that continuously support moisture content. Exfoliants, humectants and primers all play important parts – if these terms are unfamiliar, you’ve come to the right place.

In this comprehensive guide, see how to apply makeup for dry skin – including prep, setting and touching up. The most nourishing dry skin makeup products to keep you glowing are ahead – discover and try them on with Modiface, our virtual makeup tool.

How to prep dry skin for makeup

Before dry skin makeup products can be applied, the right canvas needs to be set. Even the best makeup for dry skin will struggle to sit on complexions that haven’t been prepped properly with nourishing ingredients. To ensure any dead skin is cleared and texture is fresh, see the essential formulas to include.

Skincare fundamentals

Dry skin types often experience visible build-ups of roughened skin on the surface layers. This is due to a lack of moisture content in the deeper layers. If makeup is applied over the top of dead skin cell build-up, formulas won’t be able to sink in evenly, which can cause cakey textures that transfer easily. Before applying makeup for dry flaky skin, use these skincare fundamentals:

  1. A plumping daily cleanser like the Revitalift Laser X3 Glycolic Gel Wash, to purify skin. This cleanser also acts as an illuminating exfoliator which helps to clear any dead skin cells.
  2. A deeply hydrating eye and face serum like Filler Hyaluronic Acid 2.5% Anti-Ageing Eye Serum and Filler Hyaluronic Acid 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum.
  3. A nourishing and volumising daily moisturiser, such as Filler Hyaluronic Acid Revolumising Day Cream.

Primer prep

The main purpose of a primer is to support skin’s surface for makeup wear. Consider it the first essential makeup for dry skin. On this skin type, primers create an even surface for makeup products to absorb into, extending wear and achieving that sought-after glow. In-between skincare and makeup, apply a cream primer like Prime Lab 24HR Matte Setter Primer. Onto clean, dry skin, use sweeping motions from the centre outwards. This will create a uniform surface.

How to apply makeup to dry skin

Now that we’ve covered how to prep dry skin for makeup, your favourite products are ready to be applied! For this skin type, cream formulas will do the most to absorb into and stay on skin. The best makeup for dry skin includes hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid to assist your skincare in supporting moisture content.

Choose makeup for dry, flaky skin

Sticking to dry skin makeup products doesn’t limit your preferences. As the name suggests, foundation creates the canvas for all other products to build on and mesh with. Hydrating formulas are necessary to keep skin radiant throughout the day – our extensive range ensures you can choose the coverage you want. For a light, skin-like base, L’Oréal Paris True Match Nude Tinted Serum combines 1% pure hyaluronic acid for a serum/foundation hybrid, with radiant complexions resulting. For buildable coverage, True Match Liquid Foundation also includes hyaluronic acid and matches the tone and texture of skin. The best makeup for dry mature skin helps to firm as it hydrates. Age Perfect Serum Foundation SPF 24 contains plumping Collagen AA Fractions and SPF to minimise fine lines and protect skin.

Apply with a makeup sponge

Dry skin types can benefit from specific application methods. While using your fingers or a brush to place foundation can achieve gorgeous results, a makeup sponge can enhance dewy skin. To increase the appearance of plump, hydrated complexions, consider including this tool in your makeup routine for dry skin. Soaking the sponge first in water will help increase a hydrated finish. Place product on the sponge and press into skin, taking care to give equal time to each area for a uniform skin tone.

How to set makeup for dry skin

Setting spray ensures that your look will stay in place all day. Once you’ve applied your makeup, facial oil can be dabbed over the top to increase a glowing sheen. As a final step in your makeup routine for dry skin before heading out, extend your wear with Infallible Magic Setting Mist. Short bursts of the ultra-fine mist help to keep skin looking fresh.

How to touch up makeup for dry skin

Your skincare and primer prep along with finishing spray will keep your complexion bright and hydrated, and makeup products in place all day. There are however some tricks that will help to promote a light-reflective and glowing appearance. Lip glosses elevate not only your lips but help to increase a radiant appearance in your makeup look. Throughout the day, touch up your makeup with Brilliant Signature Plumping Gloss – infused with hyaluronic acid to moisturise and plump.

Loved this guide? Keep reading to discover what goes into the best skincare routine for dry skin.

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