Makeup Tips for Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, you probably know that soothing, constant hydration plays a key role in your skincare routine. But what about makeup for dry skin? Finding the right products can be difficult when tackling skin dehydration since dry skin on the face is often accompanied by flaky patches that makeup only magnifies. Not to worry, though; we have compiled a list of must-know tips to help you achieve the dewy skin you want so that your makeup looks flawless once applied.

Skin Prep Before Makeup Application

You may already know this, but it bears repeating: Preparing your skin before applying your makeup plays a big role in how your makeup looks throughout the day. This means that what you apply to your skin before you put on your makeup makes all the difference in the world.

The best way to pull off makeup prep and set your skin up for success is to use a skincare routine that treats your dry skin to healthy hydration from a robust mix of beneficial ingredients. This way, you’ll plump up your skin so it appears smoother and more radiant, with or without makeup. Have stubborn dry patches and flaky skin? A facial booster that boasts an antioxidant-enriched blend of non-fragrant plant oils as seen in the RESIST Moisture Renewal Oil Booster will turn that around overnight so your makeup goes on beautifully the next morning.

A great face moisturizer with SPF is also critical, as sun damage can exacerbate dryness. The right daytime moisturizer can also serve as a primer, creating a supple canvas for foundation application.

One more secret: Exfoliation with a leave-on product is key to younger-looking, smoother, more vibrant and hydrated skin. If you haven’t tried such a product, prepare to be wowed. For dry skin, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) exfoliant like the SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Lotion Exfoliant applied at night after cleansing, but before moisturizing, can work wonders on dry, flaky skin.

It’s All About the Formula

When it comes to selecting makeup products, rough skin texture and large pores impact how they’ll apply and appear on dry skin. Generally, for foundation and concealer, choose those with creamy liquid formulas, and reach out for products that describe their finish as “dewy” or as having a “glow.”

More often than not, dry skin already appears dull, so to ensure that your skin does not look drier than it already is, avoid matte, powdery finishes. This will mitigate any risk of your skin appearing duller and will take the emphasis away from the areas of very dry, rough-textured skin. Moreover, dewy or glowy finishes will be able to add some much-needed radiance in an instant.

Creamy blushes and highlighters are also your friends. As odd as it may sound, people with dry skin are lucky in this regard. Cream formulas have much better staying power on drier skin, whereas on oily or combination skin, they can slide off or fade midway through the day.

Stay away from makeup products containing SD or denatured alcohol, witch hazel, essential oils, or fragrance. These ingredients do no good for all skin types. And in the case of dry skin, the irritation they can cause steadily saps dry skin of what little hydration it has.

What if you want to finish your look with powder to make sure it lasts for hours on end? People with dry skin can use a setting powder, but keep in mind: You don’t need to powder your entire face. Just brush on a light dusting over the areas that show a little oiliness, such as areas like the nose that tend to show some shine, and leave the cheeks powder-free.

When it comes time to take off your makeup, what you use is important too. Avoid makeup removers that have harsh, irritating ingredients, which can lead to irritation and more dryness. Instead, reach for makeup removers that have a super-gentle formula like the CALM Ultra-Gentle Cleanser that takes off even the most stubborn formulas without stripping the skin of its moisture! You can also take advantage of the skin-softening and makeup-removing benefits of a gentle cleansing oil like the Perfect Cleansing Oil.

There’s plenty to learn about dry skin and the makeup prep options suitable for you, but it starts with you determining if you do indeed have dry, flaky skin first.

Once you are certain you have dehydrated skin, shop Paula’s Choice SKIN RECOVERY collection, the ultimate dehydrated skin treatment line.

References for this information

• Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, April 2016, pages 79–87; and August 2015, pages 413–421
• Skin Research and Technology, August 2015, pages 366–372