If you have dry skin choosing the wrong foundation can exacerbate the problem. Keeping a fresh appearance once makeup is applied will take some forethought and careful selection. The first thing you want to do before applying any makeup is address any dry skin issues.

Exfoliating the skin will help remove a lot of dead skin cells before applying foundation and makeup.

Moisturize the face with a non-greasy and non oily moisturizer.

To choose a foundation for dry skin try one with a moisturizer. ; Usually the creamy ones.

Control the application of foundation by applying with a brush and use downward strokes. It will also help avoid a caked appearance.

Use creamy eye makeup (eye liner and shadow).

Another important factor that should be taken into consideration when choosing a makeup foundation is whether you have sensitive skin or allergies. This may greatly limit your choice of products.

If you have sensitive skin then you want to use a noncomedogenic foundation (one that does not clog the pores).

If you have combination dry skin (some areas of the face contain dry patches and others are oily) use an

oil free moisturizer to help control the shine in oily areas.

Next in line is to weigh the climate. Cold climates can dry the skin more often. You may find it necessary to keep the skin moisturized with greater frequency.

Are you a heavy sweater?

Excessive sweating can destroy the look of the most perfect makeup causing it to run cake up and flake off when dried.

Remember just because you use a foundation with a moisturizer does not mean that you will not need to prepare the face before hand by using a good moisturizer. Lotions and creams specifically formulated to hydrate the skin.

Liquid and cream foundations tend to have more moisturizer and work well for dry skin.

The main goal when using a foundation is to hide skin imperfections and even out skin tone. If the right foundation is chosen then when eyeliner and shadow are applied all will blend well.

If you have dry skin then using a powder foundation is the last thing you want to do because may dry your skin even more. Getting it to blend or stay on may also be a problem.