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10 Of The Best Foundations For Dry Skin
From water-weight serums to new-gen sticks, these are the base products that really make skin glow.
Finding a foundation that doesn't turn cake-like come lunchtime is rarely easy, but when you’ve got dry skin, it’s a truly tricky endeavour.
You can bathe in hydrating serums and slap on the most quenching moisturiser (which is Weleda Skin Food, FYI), but if your foundation isn’t formulated with dry skin types in mind, you’ll likely be dealing with flaky patches and powdery pores as the day goes on.
'Dry skin should be tackled from the base; primers and moisturisers are a great start,' advises pro make-up artist Nikita Baffour. However, the best results really depend on the foundation formula you choose: it’s best to avoid mattifying ones and instead opt for something designed to hydrate: many good options contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and vitamin E.'
Baffour uses water-based foundations on her clients with dry skin, and recommends ‘sheer or medium-coverage textures that deliver a softer, luminous finish.’ (Don’t panic: you can always employ a concealer to cover any breakouts or red patches.)
Another great move it to consider the new school of serum foundations, which generally come with more humectant power and less pigment, delivering a touch of coverage without the cake.
Whether you’re looking for a light, everyday glow or searching for something more substantial for full glam days, see the foundations we recommend for eternally thirsty skin here.
The Best Foundations For Dry Skin
Roberta Schroeder is the Senior Ecommerce Editor at Harper's Bazaar, ELLE and Esquire, overseeing shopping strategy and content across fashion, beauty, and travel. Roberta has reported on everything from market-leading skincare brands to the world’s most iconic fashion pieces, while also regularly updating a range of shopping guides, including LED masks, heritage cashmere brands and niche new dress brands to know.
Roberta has over fifteen years' experience in the luxury sector, spanning editorial consultancy, trend forecasting and journalism. Over the years, she has worked for global brands including Farfetch, Chanel, and Vogue.
When not testing beauty products, trialling trends and curating content that spotlights the very best in fashion and beauty, Roberta can usually be found trawling resale sites and vintage stores for a long-coveted designer find.
Follow Roberta on Instagram at @roberta__schroeder
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