A good foundation for dry skin should do more than just blur imperfections, it should bring comfort back to a complexion that’s feeling tight, dull or prone to flaking. Much like a good moisturiser, the right base lays the groundwork for everything that follows, whether that’s a sweep of bronzer, one of the best cream blushes, or a quick slick of mascara before heading out the door.
Dry skin often comes down to reduced oil production and a weakened barrier, while dehydration is about a lack of water. But, importantly, both concerns benefit from foundations that treat skin kindly. That means looking for creamy textures, flexible pigments and ingredients that multitask while you wear them. Specifically, ingredients such as hyaluronic acid (which draws in moisture), niacinamide (which helps to even tone) and vitamin E (which softens rough patches). Radiant or satin finishes also tend to outperform flat mattes, which can emphasise dryness. If you prefer something lighter, many of the same hydrating technologies now appear in tinted moisturisers, too.
