Beauty Myth Busters: Powder Foundation Doesn’t Work With Dry Skin

When it comes to foundations, we tend to follow strict rules on which we can use for each skin type. If you have dry skin, it’s usually recommended to use a liquid or cream formula to make your complexion more luminous. If you have oily skin, powder foundations are popular to cut shine and control oil. 

But, everyone’s skin has different needs, and you might like your foundation to look a certain way. Well, we’re happy to tell you that you might be able to throw those rules away. We spoke to Sir John, celebrity makeup artist and L’Oréal Paris Expert, to see if those with dry skin can wear powder foundations. Keep reading to see his thoughts on foundation formulas for dry skin and how to prep dry skin for foundation. 

Can You Use Powder Foundation on Dry Skin?

The short answer is yes. But if you prefer a matte, powdered look and you have dry skin, you might have to put in a little more work for a flawless end result. According to Sir John, moisturizing is key before applying powder foundation on dry skin. 

“When your skin is slightly damp from your moisturizer, take a bigger brush and buff the foundation on in a circular motion,” he says. He recommends using a blush or bronzer brush, and specifically advises against using a makeup sponge. 

For the moisturizers that you should prep your skin with, Sir John recommends using a thick, creamy moisturizer as opposed to simply a hydrating serum. Try the L’Oréal Paris Wrinkle Expert 35+ Moisturizer to intensely hydrate the skin for a plump complexion, or the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Anti-Aging Moisturizer Fragrance Free to smooth signs of aging while leaving the skin soft and nourished. 

Is There a Moisturizing Powder Foundation?

There are powder foundations that include ingredients that help moisturize dry skin types. The L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Creamy Powder Foundation with Minerals is perfect for both dry and mature skin types. It’s formulated with a ceramide-antioxidant complex to blur fine lines, pores, and dark spots, while keeping the skin hydrated. It also has a buildable finish, so apply as much as you need to cover imperfections. 

Which Powder Foundation Is Good for Dry Skin?

In addition to the powder foundation mentioned above, L’Oréal Paris makes a couple others that will suit your dry skin type. Check out these best powder foundations for dry skin that we love. 

L’Oréal Paris Up to 24H Fresh Wear in a Powder, Matte Finish

This powder formula is popular for having full coverage similar to that of a liquid foundation, all while mattifying and giving the skin a blurring effect. It also comes in 20 blendable shades, and has a lightweight and breathable feel. It’s suitable for all skin types so dry skin beauties can use it with confidence.

L’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Powder

Coming in 34 shades to match your skin tone and texture, this powder has a natural finish and buildable coverage. It’s formulated to be non-cakey, so you don’t have to worry about it clinging to dry patches throughout the day.

Next: What Is Foundation Meant to Do?

Written by: Shannon Stubbs, Photo Design: Crystal Simone