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It can be difficult to achieve a flawless foundation application, particularly if you're working with dry skin. Once foundation is applied to dry skin, it can enhance any uneven texture and leave the skin looking pale and ashy. However, you can achieve a radiant, natural finish that masks dryness with the right steps and effective tips. Because dry skin can lead to uneven settling of foundation, it can magnify imperfections. To do this, a major component of your application routine may need to change. A few small adjustments to your routine will create a radiant complexion instead of dry, dry-looking foundation. Here is a complete guide to apply foundation right on dry skin.

Step-By-Step Guide To Apply Foundation On Dry Skin

Prep The Skin

Start with a gentle cleanse and moisturiser followed up with a primer that stabilises skin texture by filling in the fine lines and dry areas. A primer can help foundation glide more easily on the skin, augment adherence of the foundation, even out the wear and provide a dewy finish.

Choose Right Foundation

Opt for hydrating or liquid foundations rather than matte formulas for dry skin. Matte formulas tend to absorb moisture, thereby making the skin look drier. Liquid foundations will provide hydration and give your face more of a dewy finish.

ALSO READ: How To Choose Right Foundation That Matches Your Skin Tone? 5 Tips To Follow

Blend Properly

Blending is essential for achieving a seamless foundation finish. Use a beauty blender or a brush to apply foundation with your choice of product in small amounts, dabbing and blending in a circular motion. Blending ensures the foundation or product is evenly distributed on the skin and will not leave dotted patches or streaks.

how to apply foundation on dry skin

Right technique to apply foundation on dry skin (Image Credits: Canva)

Layer 

To achieve more coverage, use the technique of layering your foundation rather than applying it all at once. Start with a light layer and completely blend it in before applying more foundation if needed. By layering the foundation gradually, you can achieve coverage without that heavy, cake-like appearance.

ALSO READ: Why Cushion Foundations Are The Biggest Makeup Comeback Of 2025?

Conceal Blemishes And Dark Circles

Once you finish blending, you are ready to conceal any blemishes and under-eye circles using concealers that are within the skin tone colour palette. Use the skin tone concealer when you are concealing blemishes and use a peach/pink tone concealer for under-eye circle conceal. Lightly tap the concealer on the affected area and then blend it with a finger or brush.

Set With Translucent Powder

Use a light touch of translucent powder to set your base. This will help to mattify and eliminate tackiness to ensure long-lasting makeup. However, be careful during the cold months; too much powder can reflect dry skin and make it worse.