Dry skin makeup guide

Makeup can worsen dry skin conditions therefore dry skin should be prepared for makeup before applying it. It is essential to understand and follow the right methodology to apply makeup for dry skin.

Exfoliate: Exfoliating the skin will remove the dead cells. Therefore exfoliate face, neck and lips before applying makeup.

Moisturize: Moisturize your face after cleansing. Use a rich moisturizer that is non-greasy as oily formulations can clog the pores of the skin.

Primer: Apply a speck of makeup primer specially formulated for dry skin. Start applying from the center of your face outward.

Foundation: Use a liquid foundation, apply small dots and blend it into your skin using a makeup sponge. A base with very fine light-reflective particles will give a natural-look and dewy finish. Foundations with a reasonable degree of oil will retain moisture in the skin.

Concealer: Concealers that are liquid or creamy suit dry skin. Concealers can be used to hide birthmarks, dark spots, pimples and scars. Do not apply concealer under the eyes as it might highlight the dark circles. For dry skin makeup, choose a concealer that is a shade lighter than the foundation you use.

Eye makeup: Select creamy eye shadows and eyeliner. Use mascara and brow cosmetics of your choice.

Blush: Use a creamy blush as gels, powder and cheek stains do not suit dry skin type.

Lip makeup: Use a balm or salve. Over this, apply lip gloss or moisturizing lipstick.

Makeup application tips for dry skin

• Always use cosmetics designed specifically for dry skin.
  
• Before applying makeup, apply moisturizer and wait for a few minutes. This will soften the dry skin and bring out the best of your makeup.
  
• During summer you can use a tinted moisturizer in place of a regular foundation as it is very light when compared to foundations.
  
• Exfoliating the skin at least once a week helps the skin to absorb the moisturizer better.
  
• Use an eye cream as the skin around the eyes is very delicate and eye creams are absorbed better when compared to moisturizers.
  
• Use a foundation brush to apply foundation; this will help you use very little foundation thus avoiding a caked appearance. Apply foundation in downward strokes.
  
• Apply the cream blusher high on the cheek and blend well. Choose pink blush if you have a blue or pink undertone to the skin, peach color if you have a golden undertone to the skin.
  
• Use peach or neutral pink eye shadow all over the eyelid.
  

Choose the right makeup

• Choose products that can cover the blemishes of dry skin.
  
• Make sure that the creams and cosmetics have a water-based combination.
  
• Creams and cosmetics made from water-based fruits such as watermelon are best suited for dry skin makeup.
  

Makeup products for dry skin

For dry skin choose oil-based or water based products. Avoid makeup products that are oil-free, avoid matte products too. Do not use powders, as they will dry the skin further.

Foundation: Use moisture rich, oil-based, hydrating, light reflecting or silicone-based liquid formulas. You can try cream or mousse foundations and tinted moisturizer too. Each of these products offers a special degree of coverage and finish.

Concealer: Use cream or liquid based forms.

Eye makeup: Use cream and silk-textured powder. Use soft, creamy pencils and cream eyeliner.

Face Powder: Dry skin people need not use powder as it will make the skin further dry.