Image: MomJunction Design Team
The best powder foundation for dry skin can do wonders for your skin by helping maintain your skin’s natural glow without drying out your skin. Since these are powders, they are easy to carry and apply anywhere. Just a little dab and your imperfections would be hard to find!
Simone de Vlaming, a beauty expert and founder of Beautymone, says, “If you have dry skin, you may often be told not to use powder products. In some ways, this is true, but only if you’re using the wrong powder products. You will actually find quite a few powder foundations that work well for dry skin.”
So, in case you are planning to get your hands on one and test it out, read through our list to find the perfect shade that would suit your skin tone and other requirements the best.
Top Picks
17 Best Powder Foundations For Dry Skin
1. Best All-Natural Ingredients: Jane Iredale Pure Pressed Mineral Based Powder
Infused with the goodness of pine bark and pomegranate extract, this foundation powder is full of natural ingredients. The makeup artist-approved, oil-free powder foundation for dry skin helps achieve a matte look, which is what most of the 4,000+ reviews on Amazon have raved about, too. It glides smoothly over the skin to hide minor imperfections. This foundation is water-resistant and free of harmful chemicals, making it safe to include in your makeup routine. It also contains SPF, which protects the skin from sun damage, making it one of the best powder foundations for dry skin. But remember to wear your hydrating face primer before applying this talc-free powder foundation for best results. Check out this video that has detailed information about the matte powder foundation.
Item form:
Pressed| Color: Riviera| Finish type: Matte, sheer| Key features: Vegan, cruelty-free, talc-free | Key Ingredients: Mica, pomegranate extract, pine bark extract, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, algae extract | Skin type: All | Weight: 0.35oz
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Offers a semi-matte finish
- Ideal for teenagers as well
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- May transfer to your clothes
- May not hide wrinkles
Beauty tip2. Best Sheer: Glo Skin Beauty Loose Base
Suitable for dry and combination skin, the professional-grade powder foundation has a sheer finish that can give you a radiant and smooth glow. It offers buildable coverage with a seamless base and gives your skin a dewy effect that lasts long. This rich, pigmented mineral compact powder is infused with green tea and helps brighten your skin tone quickly, making it one of the best mineral powder foundations for dry skin. Moreover, it is suitable for daily makeup applications and on-the-go makeup touch-ups.
Item form: Powder| Color: Golden medium | Finish type: Sheer to full| Key features: Talc-free, antioxidant | Key ingredients: Vitamins A, C, E & green tea| Skin type: Dry, Weight: 0.16oz
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Talc- and paraben-free
- Includes vitamins A, C, and E
- Cruelty-free
- Helps protect the skin from environmental stress
Cons
- Shade may be lighter than expected
- May require frequent reapplication
Beauty tip3. Best Multicolored Formula: Physicians Formula Multi-Colored Pressed Powder
If you usually find it difficult to get the right color from a foundation, this expert-recommended multi-colored pressed powder foundation for dry skin might just do the trick. This good powder foundation for dry skin is oil-free, hypoallergenic, and runs smoothly over the skin, helping you achieve an even tone. The blend of various colors in the compact case can give you a natural look. You can use this compact powder after applying your regular moisturizer to get a more dewy and glowy finish. It has over 5,000 reviews on Amazon, most of which praise the product for its natural-looking effects. Have a look at this video for an unbiased review of the gentle dermatologist-tested powder foundation for dry skin if you want to test it out.
Item form: Pressed| Color: Translucent| Finish type: Natural | Key features: Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free,| Key ingredients: Talc, mica, nylon-12, octyldodecyl stearoyl stearate | Skin type: Sensitive| Weight: 0.3oz
Pros
- Dermatologist tested
- Cruelty-free
- Evens the tone
- Hides blemishes
Cons
- Color may be different than expected
- May not suit pale skin
- Has talc as the top ingredient
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The tried-and-true product has earned over 702 good reviews on Amazon.
Jane Iredale Pure Pressed Mineral Based Powder Best All-Natural Ingredients | Glo Skin Beauty Loose Base Best Sheer | Physicians Formula Multi-Colored Pressed Powder Best Multicolored Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,343 | 70 | 702 |
| Price | $34.96 | $36 | $9.98 |
4. Best For Flawless Skin: L’Oréal Paris True Match Mineral Loose Powder Foundation
L’Oréal’s True Match range of foundations is really popular with the brand loyalist. Its sheer texture can cover skin flaws and make you look radiant for up to 16 hours. It contains SPF 19, which protects the skin from sun damage. Its mixable formula gives you sheer to medium coverage. The celebrity-endorsed drugstore powder foundation for dry skin glides over the skin and helps hide skin pores to give you a natural look. It is free of fragrance and preservatives and is also suitable for sensitive skin, making it one of the best mineral powder foundations for dry skin that also offers hours of wear.
Item form: Powder| Color: Natural beige| Finish type: Natural but radiant| Key features: Long-lasting, SPF 19 | Key ingredients: Titanium dioxide, boron nitride, kaolin, mica | Skin type: All| Weight: 0.35oz
Pros
- Offers a natural finish
- Long-lasting powder foundation for dry skin
- Hides dark spots and pigmentation
- Travel-friendly design
- Delivers an even tone
Cons
- Brush may shed hair
- May not be suitable for dry skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 1,514 satisfied customers on Amazon have said good things about the product.
5. Best Hydration: Pur 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup
This is a cruelty-free powder foundation for dry skin, fortified with vegan ingredients such as shea butter, vitamins E and B3. The buildable formula allows you to create the coverage you desire and shows visible results. It can blur out fine lines and dark spots. This hydrating powder foundation for dry skin works like a foundation, concealer, finishing compact powder, and sunscreen. The SPF 15 present in the formula helps protect skin from harsh sun rays. It does not contain BPA or gluten. Thus, this natural powder foundation for dry skin can leave you with a hydrated look all day long.
Item form: Powder| Color: Blush medium | Finish type: Natural| Key features: SPF 15, cruelty-free, vegan| Key ingredients: Shea butter, vitamin E, retinol, titanium & zinc oxide, mica, lactic acid, waltheria extract| Weight: 0.28oz
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Vegan formulation
- Not tested on animals
- Offers medium coverage
- Flawless finish
- Helps set makeup in place
Cons
- May not suit sensitive skin
- May not work effectively for aging skin
Quick tipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 1,457 satisfied customers have left positive reviews about the product on Amazon.
6. Best Hypoallergenic: Physicians Formula CoverToxTen Wrinkle Therapy Face Powder
This Physicians Formula Face Powder is a clinically-tested solution for those looking to conceal signs of aging. The hypoallergenic and fragrance-free compact powder is scientifically formulated especially for sensitive skin. It not only hides fine lines and wrinkles but also works to improve skin with its time-release ingredients, GABA and BV-OSC, making it suitable for mature skin. The Translucent powder foundation for dry skin can be included in your routine to set your makeup or even on bare skin.
Item form: Pressed| Color: Translucent| Finish type: Airbrushed| Key features: SPF 30, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free| Key ingredients: Titanium dioxide| zinc oxide, camellia oleifera leaf extract, chamomilla recutita | (matricaria) flower extract| Weight: 0.26oz
Pros
- Offers great coverage
- Has a tiny brush and mirror
- Irritation-free
- Shines and lasts long
- Suitable for breakout-prone skin
Cons
- May get a little cakey
- Limited shades
7. Best Vitamin-Infused: Flori Roberts Cream To Powder
In our era of high-definition, even the smallest of pores are visible in pictures. But this compact powder can blur out even the slightest of flaws and offers light to full coverage. This full-coverage matte powder foundation for dry skin contains vitamins A and E, along with soybean oil. Including it in your makeup routine can help replenish dry skin and make it soft and smooth. Its ingredients also help reduce signs of aging while giving you firm and radiant skin.
Item form: Pressed| Color: Chestnut| Finish type: Matte| Key features: Hydrating | Key ingredients: soybean oil, vitamins A & E, Weight: 0.35oz
Pros
- Offers a smooth, soft matte finish
- Provides coverage in a single application
- Covers rough and damaged skin
- Glides smoothly
Cons
- May experience difference in shade
- May not be suitable for deeper skin tones
8. Best For Any Skin Tone: CoverGirl & Olay Simply Ageless Foundation
The CoverGirl & Olay foundation stays suspended over wrinkles and fine lines. It is rich in Vitamin C, which helps maintain collagen levels in the skin. The combination also includes Vitamin B3 that is effective in boosting the skin’s radiance and strengthening the protective barrier function of the skin. The hyaluronic complex keeps the skin hydrated and healthy-looking. Defy the signs of aging with this foundation which comes in 15 different shades and is induced with the goodness of Olay Regenerist serum.
Item form: Serum-based| Color: Buff beige| Finish type: Natural| Key features: Anti-aging effects, moisturizing, even complexion| Key ingredients: Hyaluronic complex, vitamin C, Niacinamide| Weight: 0.44 oz
Pros
- Glides smoothly on skin
- Stays all day
- Suitable for mature skin
- Gives a natural look to the skin
- Blends easily
Cons
- Some may find the coverage sheer
- May feel cakey on some skin types
9. Best Anti-Aging: IT Cosmetics Celebration Foundation
Try the IT Cosmetics Celebration Foundation for an all-day, smooth look. It has an anti-aging formula that helps cover imperfections such as fine lines and pores, leaving your skin looking youthful. The clinically verified foundation also absorbs extra oil and enables you to achieve an airbrushed complexion quickly. Moreover, it contains several beneficial ingredients that help maintain the skin’s hydration and elasticity.
Item form: Powder| Color: Medium (light medium shade with warm undertones)| Finish type: Natural| Key features: Dark spot concealer, dermatologically tested| Key ingredients: Hydrolyzed collagen, silk, peptides, and antioxidants| Weight: 0.3 oz
Pros
- Free from synthetic fragrances
- Suitable for all skin types
- Crease-proof formula
- Easy to apply
- Suitable for mature skin
Cons
- May not come with a brush
- May not offer coverage for large pores
10. Best Texture: Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Loose Powder
Infused with vitamins A, C, and E, this powder foundation hides skin flaws and enhances your skin’s texture. It is made from naturally derived minerals that give you sheer to medium coverage. It helps hide minor skin imperfections and is suitable for sensitive skin too.
Item form: Powder| Color: Natural ivory| Finish type: Sheer to medium| Key features: Dermatologist-tested, talc-free, cruelty-free| Key ingredients: Minerals, vitamins A, C, & E, aloe vera, kaolin clay, grape seed extract, mica| Weight: 0.19oz
Pros
- Breathable
- Talc- and dye-free
- Fragrance-free formula
- Works effectively for oily skin
Cons
- Pores may appear large
- May not last all day
11. Best Nourishing: Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Origin Mattifying Powder Foundation
The expert-recommended Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Origin mattifying powder foundation helps nourish your skin while offering the benefits of a premium foundation. It offers a natural finish and is suitable for various skin types. The powder formula blends easily into the skin and works well on uneven skin tone. Moreover, this fresh wear foundation comes with a sponge applicator and mirror, making applying your foundation or fixing it a breeze!
Item form: Powder| Color: Sand| Finish type: Matte| Key features: Dermatologically tested, Shine control, Cruelty-free| Key ingredients: Bamboo, Honey, Linoleic acid| Weight: 0.3 oz
Pros
- Comes with a shine-control formula
- Non-comedogenic
- Lightweight texture
- Buildable for more coverage
- Paraben-free
Cons
- May not be as pigmented as expected
- May not be as smooth as expected
12. Best Non-Comedogenic: True + Luscious Velvet Matte Face Powder Compact
If acne bothers you, then you might want to have a look at this compact powder. It is enriched with vitamins and minerals that can calm and soothe skin. Its non-comedogenic formula makes it a suitable option for acne-prone skin. This triple-milled compact powder features featherlight formula and offers a matte finish to give you a natural look. Further, the vegan powder foundation for dry skin is free of parabens, talc, fragrance, and other harmful chemicals.
Item form: Pressed| Color: Light beige with neutral undertones| Finish type: Matte| Key features: Plant-derived, dermatologist-tested| Key ingredients: Kaolin clay, vitamin E, silica, mica, zinc oxide| Weight: 0.32oz
Pros
- Works as a setting powder
- No animal testing
- Absorbs excessive oil
- Sweat-free
Cons
- May not work effectively for wrinkles
- May feel cakey around the nose
13. Best Dual Use: Palladio Dual Wet and Dry Foundation
For all-day coverage, try the Palladio Wet and Dry Foundation. It contains rice powder that helps absorb extra oil, leaving your skin looking and feeling smoother. You can apply it as a wet foundation or a dry one for a lighter finish or quick touch-ups. This compact powder comes with Alpha-hydroxy and zinc oxide, which work together to prevent breakouts and minimize fine lines. Use it on a clean face for visible results.
Item form: Powder| Color: Laurel Nude| Finish type: Semi-matte| Key features: Wrinkle and fine line coverage, cruelty-free| Key ingredients: Sugar cane, Rice powder, Citrus, Camellia, Ginseng| Weight: 1.6oz
Pros
- Comes with a sponge and mirror
- Vitamin-infused formula
- Buildable coverage
- Does not get into creases
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Shade may be lighter than expected
- May not be suitable for the eyes
14. Best Easy-To-Blend: BareMinerals Original Foundation
Made of clean mineral pigments, this mineral powder foundation for dry skin gives you buildable coverage and a silky finish. It makes the skin look instantly radiant and healthy. This compact powder contains mineral sunscreen that is free of chemicals and protects your skin from sun damage. With several positive reviews, this product is free of parabens, talc, phthalates, fragrance, and preservatives.
Item form: Powder| Color: Medium beige| Finish type: Natural | Key features: Talc-free| Key ingredients: Titanium dioxide| zinc oxide, vegan ingredients, Weight: 0.28oz
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Very natural-looking finish
- Has SPF 15
- Available in different sizes
- Available in several shades
- Free of chemicals
Cons
- May take time to blend
15. Best Versatile: Lancôme Dual Finish Multi-Tasking Longwear Powder Foundation
The Lancôme Dual Finish Multi-tasking Longwear powder foundation is a celebrity-endorsed weightless face powder that gives you a natural matte look. You can wear it over a light foundation or primer for a nude or natural look. Consisting of emollients, it spreads evenly and does not dry out the skin. You can use it as a base, concealer, and setting powder, or even for on-the-go touch-ups.
Item form: Powder| Color: 310 Bisque II Cool| Finish type: Matte| Key features: Shine-free, Dermatologist-tested| Key ingredients: Talc, Squalane, Mineral Oil, Zinc Laurate| Weight: 3.2oz
Pros
- Sheer to full coverage
- Includes a puff and a sponge
- Portable and compact
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- May settle into wrinkles if not applied properly
- Some may not like the fragrance
16. Best Matte: NYX Professional Makeup Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Loose Setting Powder
Smooth out the texture of your skin and minimize the pores with this loose setting powder by NXY Professionals. It comes in six different flattering shades that extend across different skin tones. Its featherlight formula leaves the skin with a smooth matte finish, as it absorbs the excessive oil on the skin, making it one of the best drugstore powder foundations for dry skin. It is ideal for use under the eyes, on cheekbones, and an oily T-zone. Get that perfect base with this ultra-smoothing, professional-grade formula that will keep your makeup in place all day long.
Item form: Powder| Color: Light | Finish type: Matte| Key features: Cruelty-free, vegan| Key ingredients: Aluminum starch octenylsuccinate, water/aqua/eau, nylon-12, zinc Stearate, trimethylsiloxypheny, dimethicone, caprylyl glycol| phenoxyethanol| Weight: 0.21oz
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Cruelty-free
- PETA-certified
- Vegan formulation
- Suitable for full day wear
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- May be difficult to get on the brush
- May not be long-lasting
17. Best Skin Perfector: Sorme Cosmetics Believable Finish Mineral Powder Foundation
The medium to heavy coverage formulation is rich in Alpha Hydroxy Acids and vitamins that are effective in the renewal of cells. This compact powder nourishes, rejuvenates, and hydrates skin, making it suitable for a luminous finish for dry skin. It is a fragrance-free powder foundation for dry skin that gives a dewy look. Stay fresh throughout the day with this powder foundation that covers skin imperfections and makes a handy makeup to carry in your purse.
Item form: Powder| Color: Pure beige| Finish type: Luminous| Key features: Fragrance-free| Key ingredients: Antioxidant vitamins, alpha hydroxy acids, jojoba oil| Weight: 1.6oz
Pros
- Can be applied dry or wet
- Rich in skin-nurturing botanicals and minerals
- Lightweight
- Free from caking and creasing complications
Cons
- May break easily
- May need reapplication
How To Apply Powder Foundation?
Here are the two ways you can apply powder foundation.
- Beauty sponge: One way to apply foundation is with the beauty sponge or a beauty blender. Powder foundations mostly come with their customized beauty sponges in the compact case itself. You can also use your damp beauty blender to apply the powder foundation. Just press the sponge to the powder, collect the required product, and apply directly to the face.
- Powder brush: The type of brush you use to apply foundation depends on the coverage you are seeking. If you are looking for full coverage, opt for a thick foundation brush or a rounded kabuki brush. If you want less coverage, go for a slimmer brush with fewer bristles.
How To Choose The Right Texture?
The texture of the foundation you choose should depend on your skin type. It could usually be powder, cream, or liquid. Within powder foundation, there are two options: pressed powder and mineral powder.
Pressed powder is usually the best option for touch-ups. But when used without a moisturizer on your skin, it can be quite drying as it is meant to absorb excess oil. Mineral powder foundation or loose powder is extremely light on the skin and does not clog pores. However, it also tends to absorb excess oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is pressed powder the same as powder foundation?
Pressed powder is used to set your foundation in place and offers little to no coverage, while powder foundation is a combination of foundation and powder, which offers good coverage, absorbs excess oil, and does not need any powder to set it in place.
2. At what age should I start using a powder foundation?
It is best to start using makeup in your 20s as the skin may be too sensitive during your adolescent years. It also depends on your skin’s requirements and your own desire. In this case, if you have dry skin and still want to add a matte finish to your base, powder foundation would be an ideal choice.
3. How do I make my powder foundation last all day?
Prepping your skin before applying powder foundation is necessary. Applying moisturizer and primer before applying powder foundation makes it last all day.
4. How often should I change my powder foundation?
You should replace your powder foundation every two years. Just make sure that you take proper care of the product, for example, by cleaning the excess or spilled product from the packaging and closing them tightly after every use.
5. Can I use powder foundation under my eyes?
Yes, you can use powder foundation under your eyes. However, if your dark circles are too prominent, it might not give you the best coverage you require.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the best powder foundation can work wonders for your skin by absorbing the excess oil, giving it a glow, and taking you one step closer to achieving the perfect makeup look. This article lists some of the best powder foundations for dry skin, which have been shortlisted after thorough research to help you find your perfect match. It includes the Jane Iredale Pure Pressed Mineral Based Powder, which offers a matte finish, the Glo Skin Beauty Loose Base for creating a buildable base, and the Physicians Formula Multi-Colored Pressed Powder for a natural look. So, pick one from the range of shades available that will compliment your skin tone without worrying about flaky, dry skin. Also, do a patch test to ensure the foundation goes well with your skin and does not cause allergic reactions.
Infographic: How To Apply Powder Foundation On Dry Skin?
Powder foundation is an essential product for face makeup. These foundations are easy to carry and give you a radiant and fresh glow. While they are simple to apply, applying the foundation may require some additional steps if you have dry skin. Check the infographic below to know these steps.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag is a makeup and fashion enthusiast. She does detailed research and product review studies before documenting some of the best available makeup products in the market. She brings you this list of the best powder foundations for dry skin types after reviewing several features and the effectiveness of the products. Furthermore, Poulami guides you through a quick tutorial on applying the powder and useful tips to help you choose the most suitable powder foundation for your skin.
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