3 Tips for Applying Concealer for Dry Skin

Dry skin (like other skin types) has its own set of needs when it comes to picking the right skin care and those same concerns should be considered when using makeup. This means picking beauty products (from serums to foundation to concealer) that won’t dry this skin type out further but will add moisture to it. When it comes to applying concealer for dry skin, you’ll want to focus on the formulation and the application process. 

Concealer is a versatile product that can transform your face in so many ways. It can hide blemishes, mask dark marks and highlight parts of your face as well as chisel your eyebrows and contour lips. But it can even be hard to get the best concealer application right if your skin is dry. So to help you avoid the hassle of caked-on and flaky-looking makeup, we're offering vital tips on how to apply concealer on dry skin — especially when those frigid winter temperatures start to do their worst to your complexion.

Is Cream Concealer Better for Dry Skin

The formulation of the concealer you choose is very important to combat excessive dryness, flakiness and creasing on the skin. Instead of using a full-coverage concealer reach for a creamy concealer like L’Oréal Paris True Match Radiant Serum Concealer, which is formulated with hyaluronic acid and caffeine which helps reduce puffiness and add moisture to dehydrated skin. 

3 Tips to Apply Concealer for Dry Skin Without Flakes or Caking

1. Prep for Your Skin Type

While it may seem obvious, the first step to achieving flawless concealer is properly preparing your dry skin. Even when you’re working with a concealer that’s formulated to offer intense hydration, start by making sure you’ve removed any makeup or residue from the surface of your skin with a gentle cleanser like L’Oréal Paris Radiant Smoothing Cream Cleanser, which washes away build-up from leftover makeup, skin care products, dirt, sweat or oil. Then follow up with moisturizer and a broad-spectrum SPF to add nourishment and protect your skin from the sun. 

Use L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Daily UV Lotion as part of your skin prep. The lightweight, non-greasy formula helps reduce the appearance of dark spots, while protecting your skin from signs of aging (like wrinkles and fine lines) that come from the sun's rays. This sunscreen melts into the skin leaving behind a matte finish without drying out the skin, giving your complexion the perfect primed base for makeup.

2. Perfect Your Technique

The secret to getting an airbrushed look lies in the makeup tools you use and your application technique. Your fingers are often the best tools when applying makeup, especially concealer, in order to avoid applying too much or not blending enough. your ring finger picks up the least amount of product, so it lets you slowly build your coverage. Tap the formula underneath the eyes and avoid using your index finger because it can pick up too much product. 

3. Choose Concealers With Hydrating Ingredients 

Hyaluronic acid, shea butter and hydrating emollients can work as a moisturizing agent for your skin. Look for concealers that are a bit more whipped in texture and comforting to the skin when reaching for a concealer for dry skin. L'Oréal Paris True Match Eye Cream in a Concealer, 0.5 Percent Hyaluronic Acid, is a 2-in-1 product that lets you tackle both prep and coverage all at once. Infused with pure hyaluronic acid, this makeup skin care hybrid improves the look of your skin over time while seamlessly covering unwanted under-eye dark circles instantly.

Next: Do You Apply Concealer or Foundation First?

Photographer: Chaunte Vaughn, Art Director: Hannah Packer, Associate Creative Producer: Becca Solovay, Production Assistant: Jason Parigian, Digital Tech: Sam Kang, Photo Assistant: Hannah Lewis-Lopes, Makeup Artist: Jonet Williamson, Hair Stylist: Akihisa Yamaguchi, Wardrobe Stylist: Melina Kemph, Wardrobe Assistant: Kayla Martinez, Prop Stylist: Katrina Rozeville, Prop Assistant: Zach Molina, Model: Avery McMahon