The Best Makeup to Mask Skin That Totally Flakes Out
Nothing is more frustrating than rebellious skin. And in the winter time, uncooperative skin is as routine as your morning cup of coffee. Probably the worst culprit of unruly skin is a flaking, peeling visage. Skin is red, raw, and honestly, quite painful. Not to mention, it’s a complete nightmare for makeup. The sheer nature of the problem makes you want to cover up the unsightly dryness, however, thanks to winter cracking, most foundation, concealer, and the like only seem to make the problem worse. Thankfully, we got the scoop from two top makeup artists as to what makeup products are ideal for masking wayward skin and exactly how to put makeup on flaky skin. From foundation to blush, we’ve got you covered. Literally. Flakes, you’ve met your match.
Foundation
Victims of dry skin don’t need to be afraid of foundation. Although matte foundation is a no-go for those battling flakes, there are a number of great, hydrating liquid or cream options available. Jessica Scantlin, Director of Artistry at Blushington in New York City prefers to stick to a tinted moisturizer during winter months. She recommends dabbing on Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint ($40, birchbox.com), which has an illuminating effect that helps mask dry skin and give a dewier look. Those who favor a creamy compact would do well with brushing on Cinema Secrets Ultimate Foundation 5-in-1 Pro Palette ($36, sephora.com), says makeup artist Suzy Gerstein, who’s worked with celebs like Elisabeth Moss. The foundation not only comes in a variety of shades but also serves up full coverage without exacerbating flakiness, says Gerstein. “They actually smooth over [dry skin] and conceal the texture in a quite miraculous way,” she adds. To add a little extra moisture to the palette, Gerstein will mix in a bit of oil like Paula’s Choice Resist Moisture Renewal Booster ($35, birchbox.com).
Concealer
If your flakes are more of a localized problem, a dab or two of concealer might just solve your woes. For an all-over option, Scantlin recommends the oh-so creamy Ellis Faas Concealer ($40, beauty.com) “I love creams, even though that is more of a summer option for most people,” she says. “I like it because your skin is the driest in the winter time, so by adding creams, it helps to hydrate.” But if your problem is specific to your eyes, try Charlotte Tilbury Mini Miracle Eye Wand ($45, net-a-porter.com). This luxe wand is a favorite of Gerstein thanks to its light, neutralizing formula and texture, which helps swipe away puffy—or flaky—peepers.
Blush
If rocking natural rosy winter cheeks isn’t your style, you can still add a bit of rouge without highlighting dryness, our experts say. With flaking skin, Gerstein suggests avoiding powder and liquid blush, which might enhance cracks or slip on the skin, respectively. Instead, she favors Honest Beauty Crème Blush ($22, honestbeauty.com), which allows for a more buildable control. “I will often mix a dab of hydrating balm like Honest’s Magic Balm ($18, honestbeauty.com) or Shiva Rose’s Glow Face Balm ($60, shivarose.com) as a gentle highlight over the top to reflect light—and enhance the moisture barrier,” she says of application.
Powder
Although powders aren’t generally a wise option when skin is already, well, dry and powdery, for those of us with combination skin, sometimes a little mattifying action is simply necessary. Shiseido Translucent Loose Pressed Powder ($32, sephora.com) is a great option because it goes on very light without ever caking, explains Gerstein. “I always apply it—and powder in general—with a light hand though to keep the glowy bits shining through.”
More From Daily Makeover: The Matte Lipstick Your Dry Lips Won’t Hate
