Best foundation for dry skin: NARS to Charlotte Tilbury

on my high points before applying my foundation as a prefer a dewy look, but it really isn't necessary with Studio Radiance.

Pros: Glowy finish, great coverage, easy to blend

Cons: Leaky bottle, lack of control over dispensing

Rating: 4/5

Nars' Sheer Glow Foundation is one of the brand's bestsellers, and it's gained a solid fan base that includes Molly-Mae Hague and a long list of other influencers.

Released in 2009, the foundation is a cult favourite because of it's satin coverage - which I can confirm beautifully glides across the skin.

While the sheer finish provides a lovely glow, I did feel the need to instantly pack the powder as the consistency didn't feel as light as its alternatives.

Pros: High coverage, multiple functions, SPF 50+ sits nicely over skincare

Cons: Sinks into fine lines, may be too matte for very dry skin

Pros: Strong coverage, doesn't cake, blurs imperfections

Cons: Colour match inaccuracy,

Rating: 4/5

Since the brand’s launch in 2013, Huda Beauty has had several of its products go viral - and Easy Blur had the same effect when it dropped in 2024. 

Infused with skincare ingredients including niacinamide and pore-blurring silica, the foundation is designed to have a serum-like texture that still provides full coverage. 

While I wouldn’t compare its consistency to a serum, the Huda foundation is lightweight and easy to blend. 

It feels blurring on the skin, providing the perfect amount of coverage to feel flawless without looking cakey.

I used an online colour match which unfortunately left me a couple of shades too dark, but other reviewers have praised the accuracy of their own shade matches.

Huda's Faux Filter foundation is another bestseller, and while the matte, full coverage texture didn't work with my dry skin - Easy Blur is a strong alternative.

Providing strong coverage without drying out the skin, it's likely that the foundation will be the next Huda product to enter the beauty hall of fame.

Coverage: Medium, Finish: Natural, Shades: 30 options, SPF: None, Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes, Water based? No

How to apply foundation

Brushes and sponges are the most common applicators for foundation, and both make it easier to get an even finish.

A make-up brush gives a controlled application that works well for full coverage looks, while sponges are usually favoured for a natural finish.

Blending out foundation evenly is key for achieving a seamless look, and you can apply the product either directly to your face or on the back of your hand.

Work the product into the skin by gently pressing it down with a brush or sponge, and avoid swiping motions.

How to prep dry skin for make-up

To achieve the best foundation application, it's all about the prep.

Applying moisturiser before your foundation is key (whatever your skin type) as the formula works as a base to help your make-up glide on.

Foundation can sometimes pill if it's worn over a moisturiser that's too heavy, so it's worth finding a nourishing product that will sit nicely beneath other products.

Primers are also great for acting as a middle ground between skincare and foundation, and they often give a tacky base that will help your make-up to stay in place for longer.

What is CC cream?

CC cream stands for 'colour corrector' and 'complexion corrector', usually having a lightweight consistency.

Designed to be a hybrid between foundation and skincare, CC creams work to correct redness and dark spots, and can be used as an all-in-one in replacement for a foundation and concealer.

CC creams are a great option for those that want to achieve a subtle make-up look, as they often have a lighter coverage.

The lighter formula of a CC cream is generally considered to be hydrating, which is why they're a strong choice for dry skin.

CC creams usually provide more coverage than a bb cream (which stands for blemish balm), and less coverage than a foundation.

Is water-based make-up good for dry skin?

Water-based foundations are usually hydrating, which is why they're the perfect for choice for dry skin.

Acne-prone and sensitive skin types are also likely to benefit from water-based products, as the formulas tend to be gentle.