The 8 Best Full Coverage Foundations for Dry Skin
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There’s one thing dry skin needs more than anything else, and that’s hydration.
To find the best foundation for dry skin you should search for moisturising formulas that will glide over textured skin and work to treat dehydration in the process.
So, skip the experience of having your foundation clinging to dry patches, and try these tips with one of these top foundations in dry skin.
Foundation Hacks for Dry Skin:
- Exfoliate your skin with a chemical exfoliant such as Glycolic or Lactic Acid.
- Apply a hydrating serum, moisturiser or primer.
- Use a hydrating foundation formula.
- Mix in a drop of facial oil in with your foundation.
- Apply the foundation with a damp beauty sponge.
- Finish with a hydrating mist or setting spray.
Side Note: Megan from our content team shares her thoughts on 4 of our best-selling foundations in the video below...
Here Are the Best Full Coverage Foundations for Dry Skin
The CC cream that covers everything
The IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream SPF50 really does it all. Not only does this foundation provide hydrating, natural coverage, but it provides high SPF protection. This formula is packed with impressive skin loving ingredients such as Collagen, Peptides, Niacinamide and Antioxidants to protect and hydrate the skin. It covers pretty much everything including redness, pigmentation and fine lines. Plus, it easily applies, blends in, smooths and brightens the skin.
The hydrating formula with a photo finish
The MAKE UP FOR EVER Ultra HD Foundation is a cult classic formula that stands up to even the harshest on-set lighting. Beloved by makeup artists and consumers alike, this sublime liquid formula unifies an uneven skin tone for a photo-perfect finish that even the driest skin types will be able to rock all day long. This silky formula diffuses light for a full coverage, skin-like finish that never appears cakey or dry due to Hyaluronic acid spheres that attract and bind moisture to the skin, giving dryer skins a perfect option for everyday wear.
Sweat resistant, all day matte coverage
Built for the ultimate longwear look, the M.A.C Cosmetics Studio Fix Fluid SPF15 Foundation is water and sweat resistant, lightweight, and made to last for up to 24 hours of wear. This medium to full coverage foundation for dry skin smooths and perfects the complexion by blurring pores, fine lines and imperfections. With an added bonus of UVA/UVB protection built into this versatile formula, you’ll be looking smooth, fresh, and feeling protected all day long.
The best budget foundation for dry skin
The Designer Brands LongWear 24 Hour Foundation is a lightweight, breathable formula, we consider to be the best cheap full coverage foundation for dry skin. Ideal for those looking for a foundation that does more than conceal, this foundation is packed with skin-loving antioxidants Vitamins C & E to brighten, soothe. This formula also fights environmental damage with a Peptide complex, which boosts collagen and elastin, plumping and nourishing skin from within.
Holy grail foundation for makeup lovers
The Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay In Place Makeup is a sublime liquid formula that wears comfortably on all skin types. Perfect for those looking for a powder-fresh finish despite a dryer complexion, Double Wear provides a lightweight feel, allowing skin to breathe while maintaining maximum coverage. With up to 24 hours of smudge and sweat-proof wear and UVA/UVB protection built into the formula, you can avoid touch ups and sun damage all day long. Ideal for all skin types with a wide range of shades, you’ll be looking fresh, shine-free, and ultra-nourished.
Australian certified organic and vegan foundation
If you're looking for a good foundation for dry skin that is also cruelty free and vegan, try the Inika Certified Organic Liquid Mineral Foundation. This lightweight, buildable formula can go from a sheer to full look to suit your desired level of coverage, leaving skin with a diffused, long-lasting natural finish. This gentle mineral-based formula is infused with skin-nourishing ingredients that improve your complexion from within such as Hyaluronic acid and high levels of Vitamin C.
An anti-ageing foundation with a smooth finish
The Mirenesse Velvet Maxi Lift Line Treatment Foundation with Renovage is the ultimate full coverage skin saver. This foundation not only leaves skin with a smooth, velvet-soft finish, but also infuses skin with anti-ageing powerhouse ingredients. This unique formula brings together top quality skincare and incredible coverage for the perfect solution for dry, mature skins. It’s an incredibly hydrating Australian made formula with a luminous finish.
A medium to full coverage formula with a satin finish
The M.A.C Cosmetics Studio Sculpt SPF15 Foundation allows you to create the exact level of coverage for a customisable look that will take you from desk to disco. With an inclusive shade range, from the fairest skins to the richest deep complexions, you’ll be sure to find your perfect shade. Created specifically for dry complexions that often absorb moisture from foundations, leaving a cakey, dry appearance, this formula is rich in moisture for a beautiful satin finish that maintains hydration all day long.
Not sure which foundation shade is right for you? Watch the video below for some great foundation tips from Nkisu...
Brand and product inclusions are at the sole discretion of Adore Beauty. We do not seek or accept payment from brands or individuals listed in our guides.
