There is nothing worse than when your foundation settles into those pesky fine lines and makes your face seem all flaky and uneven instead of that smooth perfection we want.
Honestly, there is nothing I hate more than when my foundation sits on my lines and appears patchy!
That made me go on a mission, to find the best drugstore foundation for dry skin, and after a little… okay, maybe a lot of browsing at Ulta through the foundation aisle, I’ve found the nine absolute best drugstore foundations for dry skin.
And here’s the icing on the cake: these foundations come in various options – different levels of coverage, unique ingredients, and a range of benefits – giving you the power to select the one that perfectly suits your skin’s special needs.
Best Drugstore Foundation For Dry Skin
| Best For | Foundation | Active Ingredients | Coverage | Price |
| Overall | L’Oreal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Foundation | Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerine, Vitamin E | Medium | $9.99 |
| Soft-Matte Gel Foundation | Maybelline New York Dream Velvet Soft-Matte Hydrating Foundation | Glycerine, Sodium Hyaluronate | Medium to Full | $8.99 |
| Budget Drugstore Foundation | ELF Flawless Finish Foundation | Glycerine | Medium to Full | $6 |
| Serum Foundation | No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Serum Foundation | Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Hibiscus | Medium | $13.99 |
| High-Coverage Foundation | Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation | Allantoin, Glycerine, Beeswax | Medium | $10.99 |
| Hydrating Foundation | Physicians Formula The Healthy Foundation with SPF 20 | Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Sunflower Seed Oil | Medium | $15.99 |
| Dewy Foundation | wet n wild Photo Focus Dewy Liquid Foundation | Glycerine | Medium to Full | $5.47 |
| Cream Foundation | COVERGIRL + Olay Simply Ageless Wrinkle Defying Foundation | B Vitamins, Peptides, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide | Sheer to Medium | $13.15 |
| Tinted Foundation | wet n wild Bare Focus Tinted Hydrator Foundation | Hyaluronic Acid, Vegan Squalane, Sodium Hyaluronate | Sheer to Medium | $5.47 |
Best Overall: L’Oreal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Foundation
| Pros | Cons |
| Doesn’t look uneven or cakey | No SPF |
| Super hydrating | |
| Perfect for no-makeup look |
L’Oreal is famous for making foundations that give your skin a seamless, even finish. They’re really good, and the best part is, they’re not expensive.
True Match Super Blendable is one of their best drugstore foundation for dry skin is called True Match Super Blendable. It’s like a magic potion that hides imperfections but still looks natural.
What’s cool about it is that it comes in many shades, thanks to six mixed pigments.
What’s even better is that this foundation is like a drink for your skin – it keeps it hydrated and not all dry and flaky.
Plus, it’s so good at playing hide and seek with your natural skin that you won’t see that awkward difference in color at your chin.
You know, the one that tells everyone, “Hey, I’m wearing foundation!” This one keeps that secret safe.
Best Soft-Matte Foundation: Maybelline New York Dream Velvet Soft-Matte Hydrating Drugstore Foundation
| Pros | Cons |
| Gel-based hydrating formula | Possible to settle into fine lines |
| No dryness or roughness | |
| Feels lightweight on skin |
This foundation is like a cozy, velvety hug for your skin. It’s not shiny like others but keeps your skin happy and moisturized.
What makes it unique is its gel formula, like a fancy dessert that’s just right – not too light, not too heavy. It can hide skin blemishes pretty well, giving you medium to full coverage.
And the best part? It’s like a drink for your skin. Seriously, it has water and glycerin that keep your face refreshed and hydrated for a whopping 12 hours! It’s like your skin’s own water bottle.
What’s more, this best drugstore foundation for dry skin is a master at blending. You won’t have to worry about leaving your skin dry or rough. Instead, it’ll make your skin look and feel like silk.
Best Budget Foundation: ELF Flawless Finish Drugstore Foundation
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight, oil free formula | Not as long-lasting as it claims |
| Skin loving ingredients | |
| Gives beautiful semi-matte finish |
Another product that came highly recommended by the people at the Ulta store was from ELF Cosmetics as the best drugstore foundation for dry skin– it’s like a beauty magician in a bottle.
The finish it gives your skin is smooth and dreamy, like a soft glow that’s not too sparkly. It has got your back if you’re all about that natural vibe.
Now, let’s talk about the feeling. It’s like wearing a feather – super light and NOT OILY.
They even added glycerin to pamper your skin, like a mini spa treatment. But, it might not stay as long as other options throughout the day.
But here’s the cool part: they’ve got this best drugstore foundation for dry skin in a whopping 40 shades. Yep, that’s like a rainbow for your face.
And guess what? You don’t need a massive budget for this beauty treasure. So, when you fall in love with it (and you probably will), it won’t hurt your wallet too much.
Best For Fine Lines: No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Serum Drugstore Foundation
| Pros | Cons |
| Long lasting | A bit expensive for a drugstore option |
| Comes with SPF 15 | Has a runny texture |
| Hides fine lines, redness, wrinkles |
This No7 formula from the UK does many cool things: It hides redness, covers your skin decently, and those little light-reflecting bits in it make lines and wrinkles less noticeable.
But that’s not all! It’s like a skincare treat too – loaded with vitamins that make your skin feel firmer, brighter, and lifted.
And guess what? It even comes with sun protection (SPF 15, to be exact). And for all the animal lovers, it’s also cruelty-free.
So, if you’re into the best drugstore foundation for dry skin that does more than just the bare minimum, you might like this one.
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Best High-Coverage Foundation: Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Drugstore Foundation
| Pros | Cons |
| High-coverage | Not for oily skin |
| Covers all imperfections | Very thick texture |
| Available in 45 shades |
Simplicity can be stunning, right? If you want glam without makeup, meet Milani’s Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 foundation.
It’s like a superhero duo – foundation and concealer in one. This stuff is like a master of disguise. It hides uneven skin tone, those spots that bug you, and breakouts.
But here’s the deal – it’s thicker than others, so blending can be a bit of a workout.
But the good news is, its thick texture means it’ll stay put for ages.
Though I’m not big on heavy foundations, I keep this best drugstore foundation for dry skin for special events, like my imaginary Met Gala invite (or my mom’s Christmas party).
Best Hydrating Foundation: Physicians Formula The Healthy Foundation with SPF 20
| Pros | Cons |
| Skin-loving ingredients | Thick texture makes it difficult to blend |
| Blendable formula | |
| Fragrance, gluten, and paraben free |
Physicians Formula brings you the Healthy Foundation. It’s like a boost of vitamins A, C, and E that not only hydrate but also leave your skin looking stunningly radiant.
This best drugstore foundation for dry skin is a true chameleon – light, easy to blend, and lets your skin breathe. You’ll enjoy medium coverage with a gorgeous satin finish.
But wait, there’s more goodness in the mix. It’s like a shield against trouble, with SPF 20 guarding your skin from the sun and other nasties.
And that’s not all – it’s got a bunch of buddies in there too. Hyaluronic acid and many plant extracts team up to nourish and hydrate your skin, while the brightening complex adds some extra glow to dull skin.
Best Dewy Foundation: wet n wild Photo Focus Dewy Liquid Drugstore Foundation
| Pros | Cons |
| Best for all day wear | Spatula might be challenging to use |
| Feels lightweight on skin | |
| Vegan and cruelty-free option |
I knew I wanted to check out Wet n Wild’s foundations because I love their brushes and this brand pretty much my go-to during my high-school years and I saw many influencers raving about the Photofocus foundation so I knew I had to grab one for myself.
You guys…this drugstore foundation for dry skin is like a magician – its special light-diffusing trick stops that ghostly white look in photos.
Perfect for any day, whether you’re out and about or all dolled up.
You know what’s cool? It gives you a touch of that radiant shine, but your skin still looks real – not all made up.
Think of it like your skin’s BFF – it lets it shine through while adding something extra.
Now, the application is an adventure. It’s got this nifty spatula thing in the cap for easy use. But you’ll still want to grab a brush or sponge for the final touch.
Oh, and the feel? It’s like a creamy dream. Super smooth and moisturizing, giving you medium to full coverage for a flawless finish.
Best Cream Foundation: COVERGIRL + Olay Simply Ageless Wrinkle Defying Drugstore Foundation
| Pros | Cons |
| Hides fine lines and wrinkles | Expensive as compared to other options |
| Travel friendly size | |
| High SPF 20 |
I’ve never really used many products from Covergirl but a shop assistant recommended Covergirl’s Simply Ageless foundation to me as her go-to budget friendly foundation for everyday use so you know, I had to pick it up and give it a try!
But is it the best drugstore foundation for dry skin?
Pretty much!
It’s like a skincare and makeup combo – the special recipe includes B vitamins and peptides that help fade wrinkles and even out your tone.
And that’s not all; it’s like having a sun guard too – with high SPF to keep your skin safe.
The hydrating hyaluronic acid mix in this best drugstore foundation for dry skin is like a big gulp of water for your skin.
Oh, and the design? A cute, compact design that fits right into your travel makeup bag. It’s like a dream come true for on-the-go beauty.
Best Tinted Foundation: wet n wild Bare Focus Tinted Hydrator Drugstore Foundation
| Pros | Cons |
| Super hydrating | Limited shade range |
| Blends into skin like a moisturizer | |
| Feels lightweight on skin |
While I was in the Wet n Wild section, I also saw the Bare Focus Tinted Hydrator foundation and I had never seen this one before, so decided to buy it and try it out during the summer.
I can absolutely picture this foundation for dry skin becoming a go-to for that effortlessly flawless look during sunny days.
It’s like your skin’s best friend, blending in with total ease and feeling just as light as your favorite moisturizer.
The secret? Hyaluronic acid is like a drink of water for your thirsty skin, and there’s vegan squalane in there too – it’s like a soothing hug for your face.
The texture is light as a feather – you can even use your fingers to put it on. Right after applying, it’s got this fresh, dewy look that doesn’t sit down.
But no worries – a little powder will do the trick if you like a matte finish.
What to look for when buying a drugstore foundation for dry skin?
Let’s talk about finding the best drugstore foundation for dry skin – the one that gives you just the right coverage, ideal finish, includes skincare goodness, and matches your skin tone flawlessly. Here’s the lowdown on what to keep in mind:
Ingredients
Here’s the deal: Nobody wants their foundation setting up camp in those little cracks and dry spots on your skin. That’s why treating your skin right is key.
So, what ingredients are your skin’s BFFs?
Look for ceramides, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and jojoba oil. They’re like a hydration dream team, keeping your skin fresh and dewy.
On the flip side, avoid ingredients like silica, talc, or clay. They might suck up moisture, leaving your skin even drier.
Finish
Alright, so here’s the scoop on finishes. If your skin likes to bring on the shine, matte finishes are your jam – they help keep the oiliness at bay.
But if your skin tends to be as thirsty as a desert cactus, you’re all about that glow, right?
Look for the best drugstore foundation for dry skin that gives you that dewy, fresh-faced look.
Some even have tiny light-reflecting particles that make you look like you’ve got your spotlight – no kidding!
Shade
First things first, decode your skin tone and undertone. It might take some trial and error, but trust me, you’ll crack the code.
Next up, try the foundation shade on different skin parts – forehead, chest, cheek, and neck – to pinpoint your perfect match. Look for the best drugstore foundation for dry skin that matches your skin’s natural shade.
Oh, and keep in mind you might need a different shade for summer and winter vibes.
Coverage
Dry skin can be a diva, so less is more when it comes to coverage.
Those full-on coverage foundations? They can sometimes look heavy and cakey. Instead, go for the sheer, light, or medium coverage options.
The cool thing is that these are like building blocks. You can layer them up for the level of coverage you want and focus on spots like your nose, cheeks, or chin for that extra boost.
So there you have it – the foundation 101 for dry skin. It’s all about that perfect balance of coverage, finish, ingredients, and shade that suits you to a T.
How to apply foundation like a pro?
Who wants their foundation to nestle into those pesky wrinkles and fine lines? I know I don’t!
Getting the foundation game on point is a must for ALL dry-skin beauties. Let me spill the beans on how you can nail it:
Step 1: Prep Like a Pro
First things first, get your skin ready for the makeup magic. Start with the triple threat: cleanse, tone, and moisturize. This dynamic trio sets the stage for a flawless makeup application.
Think of it as giving your skin a VIP treatment before the main event.
Step 2: The Art of Application
Now, let’s dive into the foundation action. Grab a smidge of foundation – you don’t need a lot. Use your middle or ring finger (they’re like your secret tools) to gently pat the foundation onto your face using light and feathery strokes.
Step 3: The Blending Game
Blend, baby, blend! Move the foundation downward, starting from your forehead and making your way to your oh-so-lovely chin.
But here’s the twist: instead of using your fingers for this bit, consider enlisting the help of a beauty blender or a sponge.
Trust me, it’s like a little makeup fairy that ensures everything blends seamlessly.
Bonus Tip: Use a Beauty Blender
While you can totally use your fingers to blend, I’m a massive fan of the beauty blender method. It’s like the superhero of blending techniques (always works for me).
It creates this airbrushed finish that’s hard to beat.
So there you have it, the foundation wisdom for our dry skin darlings. It’s all about those gentle strokes, the downward dance, and the finishing touch of a beauty blender.
Wrapping Up
So, now you’ve got the scoop on the best drugstore foundation for dry skin. These gems are a real blessing – they won’t give your dry skin a hard time.
Not only do they cover up any flaws, but they’re also like a sip of hydration for your skin, giving you that bright glow.
And here’s the kicker – they’re just as good as those high-end ones (you can finally save your precious dollar bills).
Out of this awesome bunch, my personal superstar is the L’Oreal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Foundation. This one’s a winner with its blendable magic, deep hydration, and a finish that looks like your skin but better.
Now, it’s your turn to spill the beans. Which best drugstore foundation for dry skin is your ride-or-die? Share your thoughts in the comments.
FAQs
How can you make your foundation stay on dry skin?
Start with a hydrating primer underneath to make your foundation stick to dry skin. It’s like a smooth base. Exfoliate your skin before makeup to freshen up, and finish by using a setting spray to keep your look in place.
Are drugstore foundations as good as the expensive ones?
Hell Yeah! Drugstore foundations can be just as great as the fancy ones. They’re gentle on your skin and don’t cost a lot.
What foundation works best for dry skin?
Look for a foundation that’s like a superhero for your skin. It should moisturize, hydrate, and give a smooth finish. Check for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and jojoba oil – they’re like magic for dry skin.
