8 Best Foundations For Dry Skin in 2023

On the opposite end of the spectrum from oily skin, dry skin is not a fun time either!  Those of you with dry skin understand the struggle of finding the right foundation.  You have experienced the excitement of what seems to be a creamy and hydrating foundation only to be disappointed after a few hours when it separates and accentuates your wrinkles or fine lines.  That’s why we researched and found the best foundations for dry skin that won’t crack, cake, or cling to dry patches!

Although you likely do not need this reminder, we feel the need to mention that the key to applying makeup on dry skin is to thoroughly moisturize.  Our all-time favorite moisturizer to use before foundation is the total moisture facial cream by Benefit.  With this stuff, you can put on any foundation you want, it does not even have to be from this list or designed specifically for dry skin, that’s how much moisture this cream provides!

As always, don’t forget that a vital part of ensuring your skin appears smooth while wearing foundation is properly prepping with a primer and setting with a spray or powder.

1.  BaeBlu – Organic Aloe-Based LUX Liquid Foundation – $30.45

OUR #1 CHOICE

This medium to full coverage foundation is as amazing as the company that produces it!  Not only did BaeBlu switch the bottle from plastic to glass after hearing complaints from customers, but they offer three samples to try before ordering a full bottle!  You can order the samples here.  This foundation is organic, vegan, gluten-free, and has a semi-matte finish.  It will not get patchy or settle into fine lines and does an excellent job covering redness and blemishes.  There are also 16 shades to choose from!

Pro Tip – If you find this foundation to be a little drying, try mixing in a drop of moisturizing oil.

Purchase Here

2. L’Oréal Paris – True Match Lumi – $10.74

Our choice for:  drugstore brand

True Match Lumi has long been a favorite drug-store foundation among beauty Youtubers and bloggers.  This foundation is creamy, has buildable medium coverage, and contains SPF 20.  The luminous finish is stunning and such a perfect match with dry skin that you don’t even need to set this foundation.  You can’t beat the price for this quality!

Purchase Here:

Ulta Amazon

3.  jane iredale – Amazing Base Loose Mineral Powder – $46.00

Our choice for:  powder foundation

A powder foundation likely does not come to mind for dry skin but this loose powder is the exception!  It has sheer to medium coverage, is not drying, doesn’t add oil, and is perfect for covering acne.  This foundation gives a luminous finish that will actually stay on you.  And it has SPF 20!

Pro Tip: Set with a spray rather than a powder.

Purchase Here:

Dermstore Amazon

4.  Neutrogena – Healthy Skin Liquid Makeup Foundation – $13.92

This foundation has countless great features — lightweight, non-cakey, SPF 20, long lasting, and great for sensitive skin.  The natural finish is satin-like with a blurred airbrush effect.  Best of all, this foundation is incredibly affordable.

Purchase Here:

Walmart Amazon

5.  NARS – Sheer Glow Foundation – $47.00

This foundation is not only hydrating for dry skin, but it’s light weight and easy to blend.  Although it’s a natural finish, there is still a glow to it, almost like a subtle highlight.  It provides a light to medium coverage. You can also try NARS’ Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation.

Pro Tip: Buy a pump to go with this foundation! Pouring it out of the bottle is not only a pain but can cause you to waste product.

Purchase Here:

Ulta Sephora

6.  Clinique – Even Better Refresh Hydrating and Repairing Makeup – $32.00

The search for a full coverage foundation that works with dry skin is over.  This natural finish foundation will cover any and all blemishes while still giving you that Clinique signature light weight feel.  One reviewer raved, “I get extremely dry patches and I couldn’t believe how nice and smooth this felt.  I fell asleep with it on one night and woke up to soft smooth skin that still concealed my redness!”

Purchase Here:

Clinique Ulta Sephora

7.  Dior – Forever 24h Wear High Perfection Skin-Caring Matte Foundation – $52.00

If you have dry skin, can spend $50+, and desire a matte finish, there is no competition to this foundation.  It will last a full 24 hours, even if you are outdoors, and contains SPF 35.  We have three words to describe this foundation: Flawless. Hydrating. Long-lasting.  You will not be disappointed with this one!

Purchase Here:

Dior Sephora

8.  Estée Lauder – Futurist Hydra Rescue Moisturizing Foundation SPF 45 – $45.00

This foundation will hydrate your skin with a radiant finish without making it greasy, while also providing protection with SPF 45.  This buildable medium to full coverage will last you a full work day plus happy hour when you get off!

Purchase Here:

Ulta Sephora Estee Lauder