Dealing with overly dry and flaky skin can make putting on makeup a bit tricky. When your skin is dry and flaky, your makeup might not look as smooth as you'd like. To tackle this issue, it's essential to address the root causes of extra dryness and flakiness while adjusting your skincare and makeup routine. Here, we'll share tips and tricks to help you achieve a flawless look!

Step-by-Step Routine for Makeup on Very Dry and Flaky Skin:

First of all, let’s adjust your expectations. If you have flaky skin, you may not be able to reverse it overnight. It all depends on the root cause: is the flakiness a symptom of a skin issue like eczema or is it the build-up of dead cells? There are many possibilities, and it would be incredibly useful to know why your skin is behaving like this—with a clear knowledge of the root cause, you can tailor a targeted treatment. Don’t be afraid to get help from a healthcare professional! 

1. Include an exfoliant in your skincare routine

Removing dead skin cells is key if you want to target flaking skin. This is a good moment to remind you that for a scrub or exfoliant to be effective, it doesn’t (and really shouldn’t!) be harsh on the skin, and you should apply it always with a soft hand. You have a few options when it comes to skin exfoliation; you may opt for an exfoliating toner, an exfoliating mask, or an actual scrub with physical exfoliating particles. Let’s take a closer look at each of these options!

Understand the Root Cause:

Before diving into a routine, assess why your skin is dry and flaky. Is it due to a specific skin issue like eczema, or is it just a buildup of dead cells? Knowing the cause will help tailor a targeted treatment. Don't hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Commit to a Skincare Routine:

Regardless of the products you choose, consistency is key. Make sure to follow your routine once or twice a week for optimal results. Immediate improvement is possible, but the best outcomes come with time.

Include an Exfoliant:

Removing dead skin cells is crucial for addressing flaking skin. Choose a gentle exfoliant and apply it with a soft touch. Here are three options:

Exfoliating Toner:

Use a toner with exfoliating ingredients like lactic or glycolic acid. This option is convenient and fits seamlessly into your existing routine. Be patient, as it may take a few days to see results.

Face Scrub with Physical Exfoliating Particles:

Classic face scrubs with exfoliating particles provide immediate results. Use them once or twice a week, but be cautious if you have sensitive skin. This option adds an extra step to your routine.

Exfoliating Mask:

Opt for a mask that combines the texture of a face scrub with the replenishing properties of a mask. Massage the product in, leave it for 10 to 15 minutes, and rinse off. This option can yield visible results from the first use.

Remember, finding the right routine for your dry and flaky skin may require some experimentation. Be patient, stay consistent, and enjoy the gradual improvement in your skin's texture and appearance.

2. Rehydrate Your Skin for a Healthy Glow

After giving your skin a good exfoliation, it's time to replenish it with the hydration it craves. If your skin feels dry and flaky, chances are it's not just dry but dehydrated. To tackle this, you'll need hydrating products that can provide the much-needed moisture. This can include a hydrating serum, moisturizer, and even a deeply hydrating mask – or a combination of these. If your skin is naturally dry, opt for a rich moisturizing cream to give your skin the comfort it deserves. Here's a breakdown of the steps to revive your skin:

Embrace Hydrating Formulas:

To quench your skin's thirst, choose a serum or face mask specifically designed for dehydrated skin. A great serum recommendation is the Bioderma Hydrabio Sérum Moisturising Concentrate. If you prefer a hydrating face mask, consider the Uriage Eau Thermale Water Sleeping Mask. For daily moisturizing, the Clarins Hydra-Essentiel [HA²] Light Cream is an excellent choice. Use it in both your morning and evening routines. Remember, these products work best on exfoliated skin, so make sure not to skip any steps. The combined effort of exfoliation and hydration is crucial for reducing flaky skin.

Restore Comfort in the Evening:

If you have dry skin, especially in the evening, opt for a rich, nourishing cream along with hydrating products. This will not only enhance the look of your makeup the next morning but also provide lasting comfort to your skin. The NUXE Crème Fraîche de Beauté 48h Moisturizing Rich Cream is an excellent example of a replenishing moisturizer. With each use, it delivers immediate comfort while ensuring long-lasting hydration.

By incorporating these hydrating steps into your routine, you'll not only address dryness and flakiness but also promote a healthier and more radiant complexion.

3. Makeup Application for Dry and Flaky Skin

Now, let's dive into the world of makeup! Our skincare journey aims to enhance the appearance of makeup on dry and flaky skin. With consistent use of the recommended skincare routine, you may find that flaking skin diminishes, allowing your makeup to go on more smoothly.

While we've covered skincare to improve skin texture, here are some practical tips to ensure your makeup looks great, even over flaking skin. However, it's important to set realistic expectations: completely concealing texture with makeup can be challenging. When dealing with textured skin, remember that less is often more. Equally crucial is applying moisturizer before foundation. Now, let's explore what else you should keep in mind to achieve the results you desire:

Foundation & Concealer:

Foundation, containing pigment, can accentuate skin texture. If your skin is prone to flaking, choose your products and application method carefully. Instead of opting for full or medium coverage foundation, consider using a BB cream or a sheer foundation. Steer clear of matte foundations, as they can highlight dry patches. Opt for a natural satin finish for a light texture that won't emphasize flaking skin.

When it comes to concealer, you have more flexibility in your choice. Since correctors and concealers are typically applied to areas without flaking, you can go for medium coverage and even a matte finish if you prefer. Keep it lightweight by using a pinpoint concealing technique: apply concealer or corrector only on the imperfections you want to conceal and gently pat it in with your finger. The result? Weightless and flawless-looking skin!

By being mindful of product choices and application techniques, you can enhance your makeup's appearance on dry and flaky skin, achieving a natural and beautiful finish.

Powder for Dry Skin: A Delicate Touch

For those with dry skin, skipping powder is a viable option, especially if you're using a self-setting foundation—a formula that sets without the need for powder. However, if you find it necessary, choose a loose and transparent powder over a compact and tinted one. Loose powders typically have a lighter texture and blend seamlessly into the skin, remaining virtually undetectable. It's crucial to apply a very thin layer to maintain a natural look!

If your skin feels extra dry all the time, you need to treat it with the nourishing, replenishing care it deserves. Try one of the best skincare for extremely dry skin and find the comfort your skin is craving!