These makeup hacks for dry skin change everything, according to experts

The art of applying makeup to dry skin is exactly that – an art. Dry skin is incredibly common, with up to 20 percent of the population experiencing the tell-tale tightness, rough texture or flaking that come with the condition. This is only further intensified come winter, when low humidity and biting winds are coupled with hot showers and central heating stripping the skin’s natural protective oils and compromising the skin barrier, leaving it more vulnerable than ever.

Introducing makeup into the mix, when skin is already feeling parched and fragile, is far from a recipe for success. Cosmetic formulations can be heavy in alcohol, powder and certain silicones that only serve to cling to dry patches, pill or settle into creases, leaving a cakey, uneven finish.

Finding the best makeup for dry skin is about selecting less, but better. The art of complexion care, specifically, requires ingredients borrowed from our skincare routines that will hydrate and nourish, while also serving to tint and enhance. Think serum-infused foundations, butter-soft cream blushes that melt upon application and light-reflecting highlighters that create a healthy, dewy shine, all while bolstering skin’s resilience to external aggressors.

According to makeup artist Saba Khan, the most common mistakes those with dry skin make when it comes to their cosmetics are “rushing skin prep, overloading product on dry areas and skipping gentle exfoliation.” The expert stresses that it’s a 360-degree approach and “it all begins with your skincare routine.”

Scroll on to discover Vogue’s makeup bag to smooth, soothe and enhance dry skin, selected for more polish, less patchwork.

Skin prep for dry skin

“For me, skin prep is very much a less-is-more approach,” Khan tells me. “I focus on absorption rather than layering too many products. Makeup always sits better on skin that’s properly nourished rather than overloaded or slippery.” This starts right at the beginning of your routine, from your cleanser to the second step: toner.

haruharu wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner

It’s a K-beauty hero that the makeup artist is enamoured by for its lightweight, hydrating properties. “I’m currently loving the haruharu Black Rice Toner – it gives that milky, cushiony hydration and preps the skin beautifully without heaviness.”

Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream