The winter weather is snow joke! Not only does the bitter cold wreak havoc on our skin by drying it out, but it can also make wearing makeup even more challenging. If you're struggling to find a quality foundation that hydrates your skin, we've got you covered (literally).
When it comes to finding the right foundation for your dry skin, look for products that attract and hold water. "The best foundations for dry skin will contain hydrating and moisturizing properties without drawing attention to dry areas," explains Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, a board-certified dermatologist.
"Foundations can fake a dewy glow to transform the appearance of skin from dull and dry to luminous and healthy," she adds.
Additionally, we spoke with two other skincare experts to find out which ingredients to prioritize in a foundation for dry skin. Shop foundations from top brands like Charlotte Tilbury, Fenty, CoverGirl and more — starting at only $4.
Keep scrolling to find the best expert-recommended and editor-tested foundations to help sooth your dry skin and receive a brighter glow.
Splurge option$undefined$69.00
What to look for in a foundation for dry skin
If you're struggling to find an effective foundation for your dry skin, be sure to consider the list of ingredients in the product. “Humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin draw water to the skin and bind it while oils will lock-in that moisture, so look for foundations that combine both," suggests Murphy-Rose. "Ceramides and squalane help to support the skin barrier that is often compromised in dry skin," she continues.
In terms of formula, Paula Brezavscek, a board-certified physician assistant and the founder of Azala Skin Clinic, says that liquid or cream textures for foundations work best as they offer buildable coverage without clinging to dry patches.
"Creams and liquid tend to fare better for dry skin compared to powders that are inherently moisture-wicking and drying," adds Murphy-Rose.
Board-certified and fellowship-trained cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Pooja H. Rambhia, MD, believes that finding a foundation that includes SPF is an added bonus. "To be clear, this should not be your only SPF product you use, however, I like to include products with SPF in them so as to help add another layer of protection to the skin," she states.
The best expert-recommended and editor-tested foundations for dry skin
Budget-friendly editor pick: CoverGirl Clean Liquid Foundation
- Affordable
- Easy to apply
- Water based
- May have strong smell
Colorways: 22 | Size: 1.0 oz. | Key ingredients: Talc, citric acid
I [Wise] have been a loyal customer of this drugstore liquid foundation for years. Not only is it super affordable, but it is extremely hydrating and makes my skin very glowy. I highly recommend this Amazon's Choice product for anyone on a budget who, like me, suffers from dry or itchy skin.
Affordable expert pick: Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Pro Filt'r Hydrating Longwear Foundation
- Provides full coverage
- Lightweight
- Limited shades available
Colorways: 2 | Size: 1.0 oz. | Key ingredients: Glycerin, grape seed oil
"This foundation is made for dry skin. It has a hydrating formula that provides a glowing look on the skin," says Rambhia. She explains that grape seed oil is an ingredient used to hydrate the skin while maintaining a smooth clear look. "The foundation does not dry out and there are many different shade ranges available for all different skin tones," Rambhia suggests.
Enriched with hyaluronic acid: IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better Foundation + Skincare
- Feels nice on skin
- Easy to use
- Mixed reviews on scent
Colorways: 26 | Size: 1.0 oz. | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, aloe vera extract, vitamins E and B5
"IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better Foundation contains water-binding hyaluronic acid plus skin-soothing aloe vera and vitamins E and B5 to attract moisture to the skin’s surface while nourishing and also providing a natural coverage," Murphy-Rose explains. "This is like a tinted moisturizer plus skin care all in one," she adds.
Blends well: Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation
- Lightweight
- Makes skin glow
- Blends well
- Pricey for amount of product
Colorways: 30 | Size: 1.0 oz. | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, rose complex
This Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation is formulated with hyaluronic acid and glycerin. "After multiple uses, it improves the skin’s texture and natural barriers. This foundation is meant to last all day without drying or irritating the skin," Rambhia suggests.
Editor favorite: KVD Beauty Good Apple Full-Coverage Transfer-Proof Serum Foundation
- Full coverage
- Great for combination skin
- Hydrating ingredients
- Matte finish
Colorways: 40 | Size: 1.01 oz. | Key ingredients: Glycerin
"This technically is for "combo/oily skin" per the brand, but I've been using this foundation for a couple of months, and I love it for my dry skin," shares associate editor Shannon Garlin. "I do use a thick moisturizer right before I apply my makeup but this foundation goes on so smooth, offers full coverage and stays on all day, Without any flakes or cracks. It contains glycerin, which is also great for hydrating the skin, too!"
You glow, girl: Nars Sheer Glow Foundation
- Goes on smoothly
- Good coverage
- Easy to apply
- May cause breakouts
Colorways: 34 | Size: 1.0 oz. | Key ingredients: Glycerin, vitamin C, turmeric extract, powerful antioxidants
Murphy-Rose is also a big fan of this moisturizing foundation that goes on smoothly and offers buildable coverage. "NARS Sheer Glow Foundation contains a blend of skin hydrators plus antioxidants to support skin health while providing a glowy, dewy finish," she explains.
Great for combination skin: Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation
- Full coverage
- Wide color range
- Long-lasting
- Use with a thick moisturizer
Colorways: 56 | Size: 1.0 oz. | Key ingredients: Butylene glycol
"The brand says this is also best for oily and combo skin, but I have dry and flaky skin and have used this foundation for years while I was a performer," explains Garlin. "I found that it works really well when applied after moisturizer! It withstands high temperatures as well as cold temperatures and lasts all day. I also love the full coverage for a flawless finish," she says.
If you prefer powder: Patrick Ta Major Skin Creme Foundation and Finishing Powder Duo
- Lightweight
- Looks natural
- May be blotchy
Colorways: 24 | Size: 5.3 oz. | Key ingredients: Talc, citric acid
"This foundation is ideal for dry skin, offering a buildable, breathable cream formula that melts into and moves with the skin, providing a natural, radiant finish," suggests Brezavscek. "The accompanying air-spun setting powder blurs the appearance of pores, creating a flawless, skin-like finish without emphasizing dry patches," she explains.
Splurge option: Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Perfect Glow Flawless Oil-Free Foundation
- Brightens skin
- Medium coverage
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Expensive
Product Spes
Colorways: 40 | Size: 1.0 oz. | Key ingredients: Glycerin
"This foundation stands out for its ability to blend seamlessly into the skin, creating a silky, airbrushed finish ideal for dry skin," shares Brezavscek. "Its hydrating properties ensure comfort throughout the day, while its light reflecting technology gives the skin a natural, luminous glow," she states.
How to apply a foundation for dry skin
To avoid your foundation becoming cakey or dry, Rambhia recommends starting with a great skin base, which includes a hydrating moisturizing cream.
Murphy-Rose also recommends choosing a moisturizer that not only brings moisture to the skin but will also play well with your foundation of choice. "Allow the moisturizer to penetrate skin completely before applying your foundation for best results," she insists.
"Choose a foundation with hydrating ingredients and a dewy finish and use a damp makeup sponge or your fingers to press the product gently into the skin, avoiding excess blending over dry patches," Rambhia notes. "Regular skincare maintenance, including hydration and barrier repair, is key to minimizing dryness over time and improving makeup application," she states.
“Throughout the day use a hydrating mist or setting spray to maintain moisture on the skin when needed,” Rambhia adds.
Frequently asked questions
If you have dry skin, Rambhia advises users to opt for a foundation with a hydrating formula instead of a matte one. "You can use a matte foundation for dry skin; however, it is not recommended to do so as this can exacerbate the appearance of dry skin," she says.
"It is important to choose a foundation that has a hydrating formula. If you decide to use a matte foundation it is beneficial to look for formulas that use hyaluronic acid, glycerin or vitamin E," Rambhia adds.
"When choosing a foundation for dry skin, it’s best to avoid alcohol-based formulas, as they can strip natural oils and worsen dryness," suggests Rambhia.
"Additionally, thick and heavy formulations may clog pores and fail to provide the hydration dry skin needs," she adds.
How we chose the best foundations for dry skin
The Shop TODAY team rounded up the best foundations for dry skin by enlisting the recommendations of board-certified dermatologists. We also asked our editors to share a few tried-and-true favorites as well.
Meet the experts
- Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose is a board-certified dermatologist at Newport Beach Dermatology & Plastic Surgery in California and Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York in New York City. She is also the founder of Skincare Junkie.
- Paula Brezavscek is a board-certified physician assistant and the founder of Azala.
- Dr. Pooja H. Rambhia, MD, is a board-certified and fellowship trained cosmetic dermatologist in New York City and Greenwich, Connecticut.
