Winter is not your makeup’s best friend. Between the icy air outside and the dry indoor heat, your skin is more prone to flaking, tightness, and patchiness—all of which can seriously mess with your foundation. But don’t worry—hydrated, glowing skin (even in winter!) is totally doable with a few smart swaps and techniques.
Here’s how to stop dry winter skin from wrecking your makeup—and keep your look smooth, fresh, and flawless.
1. Start with a Gentle, Moisture-Friendly Cleanser
Overwashing or using harsh cleansers can strip your skin of the little hydration it has left in winter. Instead, use a gentle formula like the Perfect Foam Cleanser to remove impurities without throwing your skin off balance.
Bonus tip: Wash with lukewarm (not hot) water to avoid further drying out your skin.
2. Layer on Lightweight Hydration
Before you even think about foundation, you need a base that works with your makeup. The Perfect Facial Cream is ideal—it’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and leaves your skin soft and prepped for smooth application.
Pro tip: If your skin is extra thirsty, apply your moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp to lock in even more hydration.
3. Switch to a Creamy, Buildable Foundation
Powder foundations and heavy matte formulas can cling to dry patches and exaggerate texture. Opt for something breathable and buildable like the Glow Compact Cushion or Matte Compact Cushion.
Both give you control—start sheer and build coverage only where you need it, without caking or settling into fine lines.
4. Ditch the Brushes—Use a Damp Blender Instead
When skin’s feeling dry or flaky, a damp makeup sponge like the Perfect Blender helps press product in without lifting dry bits. The result? A soft, even finish that actually looks like skin.
5. Spot-Conceal Instead of Layering
Instead of piling on more foundation to cover problem areas, try the Perfect Cover Colour Concealer just where you need it. You’ll get the coverage without the heaviness—perfect for keeping things fresh in dry winter air.
6. Go Easy on the Powder
If you need to set your makeup, stick to small amounts of a finely milled option like the Perfect Stay Finishing Powder, and only apply it where you get shiny (like the T-zone or under the eyes). This keeps your skin glowing and avoids the dreaded chalky look.
7. Refresh, Don’t Reapply
By midday, your skin might start to feel tight or your makeup might settle a bit. Instead of reapplying more foundation, try misting your face lightly or pressing in any areas with clean fingers or a damp sponge to revive the finish.
Winter-Proof Your Routine
Dry winter skin doesn’t have to ruin your glow. With the right prep, the right formulas, and a little technique, your makeup can look smooth and fresh all season long.
Not sure which foundation is right for your winter skin?
Take our Colour Match Quiz and find your perfect shade—risk-free.
