Our 12 Best Foundations for Dry Skin

A good foundation is the staple of every makeup routine, but this can seem near impossible to find if your skin is on the drier side. Don’t fear, your dreams of a golden hour glow can be achieved. You just need to keep an eye out for formulas with hydrating ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Peptides and Squalane. These can help to prevent your already-dry skin from drying out even more. We’ve found some of the best foundations for dry skin that instantly plump and boost moisture levels over time, so you can swipe on and see your natural skin shine. Need help finding your shade? Introducing our Foundation Shade Finder; you're just a few clicks away from your perfect match.

Best foundations for dry skin at a glance - our top picks:

Best foundation for medium coverage: HAUS LABS Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation, £42

Best dewy foundation for dry skin: NARS Light Reflecting Foundation, £39

Best full coverage foundation for dry skin: Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation SPF10, £38.50

Best foundation for dehydrated skin: Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Weightless Foundation, £29

Best foundation for dry mature skin: Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Serum Foundation, £37.50

Q: What is foundation? 

A: Foundation makeup can be applied to the face to create an even skin tone and let your natural beauty shine. Take your pick out of its various forms - liquid, powder, cream, or stick foundations, all of which create a smooth canvas to layer other makeup must-haves like blush, highlighter, or eyeshadow on top.

Ranging from sheer to full coverage, foundations can provide a subtle or a more dramatic look with a formula that's buildable to your preference. Dewy finishes give a radiant glow, matte finishes offer a shine-free appearance, and natural finishes strike a balance between the two. If you want one that's versatile, liquid foundations are your best bet, suitable for most skin types. Cream foundations are more hydrating than powder foundations, which are better suited for those with oily skin, providing a matte finish. And for our convenient queens, opt for easy-to-apply stick foundations that you can take on-the-go.

The ingredients in foundations may include moisturisers for hydration, pigments for colour, and others to achieve long wear or SPF protection. You'll be sure to find your complexion cupid with cool, warm, or neutral undertones to suit every skin tone. And how do you apply foundation? Use makeup brushes, sponges, or your fingers - whatever you fancy.

Q: Which foundation is best for dry skin? 

A: Even within the category of dry skin, everyone’s skin tone, texture and coverage preference can be different. Generally, cream serum-based, or mineral foundations are best for those who have thirsty skin - especially ones with hydrating and plumping qualities. Longwear formulas are also a dry complexion’s best friend, as these don’t settle into creases and dehydrate the skin even more. We’ve listed our fave full coverage, lightweight and skincare-filled formulas so you can dew you. For extra smoothness and nourishment, prep your skin with a good moisturiser and hydrating primer beforehand. Our top tip? Use our trusty Foundation Shade Finder to help you find your shade. Combining a mixture of the foundations below might be the recipe for your best skin yet. 

By Sephora UK Makeup Editorial Team

Writers and experts

Updated: 04 March 2024