When shopping for your new face makeup, it can be as difficult as purchasing a house (OK, maybe not that hard but you get the idea).

Especially if you have dry skin, the hunt to find a formulation that isn’t cake-y can be a Herculean effort at times. You don’t want to opt for something too full-coverage; instead, you’ll want an easy-to-blend option that is buildable, hydrating and will feel like a second layer of skin. (Related: Best foundations for mature skin).

“I recommend using a lightweight to medium coverage foundation for dry skin,” Rahi Sarbaziha, MD, Beverly Hills-based integrative aesthetics doctor, told the New York Post. “It’s best to build on top of foundation, rather than using a very thick product all over your skin. Thick products could highlight dry patches and settle into lines.”

Much like shopping for concealers and shampoos for your hair type. it’s important to do your homework. Luckily, the New York Post outlined an in-depth review (and corresponding FAQ section, with tips from Dr. Sarbaziha) in this all-in-one foundation shopping guide.

Ever since I was in middle school, I’ve had a surefire obsession with hitting my local Sephora and rummaging through the beauty shelves. I would always try new brands (which makes my now full-time job no surprise to anyone), always scouting new makeup formulas.

And, I’ve always had dry and sensitive skin. Because my skin is dry — namely, around my ears, nose and jawline — finding the perfect foundation has always been hit-or-miss. Luckily, I have been trying out different foundations for many years — assessing a variety of brands and finding holy-grail options I won’t shut up about.

Because my skin is sensitive as well as dry, you won’t find too many drugstore options on this list. I’m a big believer that you get what you pay for; even if you’re spending about $25 on a quality foundation, you’ll be impressed by hydrating, buildable coverage that’ll have your skin receiving plenty of compliments, but most importantly, feeling great!

Here are some criteria I kept in mind when reviewing foundations for dry skin:

The Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Medium Coverage Liquid Foundation blew me away as far as glowing skin goes. Its even, buildable coverage is second to none and it seamlessly covers redness and uneven skin tone while nurturing the skin, thanks to its thoughtful inclusion of hyaluronic acid.

“This liquid foundation allows you to build up to medium coverage while nourishing the skin with hyaluronic acid — it’s key hydrating ingredient and a must for dry skin,” Sarbaziha tells The Post.

Even better, its travel-friendly tube and easy-pump dispenser makes it wonderful to stash in your makeup bag. In a variety of shades, it never lets me down, and it’s by far my most-recommended.

If you’re looking for the perfect wedding day foundation or one that’ll leave your skin photograph ready without looking caked on, the Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Perfect Glow Flawless Oil-Free Foundation remains a formula I always reach for. You’ll be impressed by its generous shade range, too (pro tip: go a few shades darker to use one as a liquid bronzer).

“This liquid foundation suits dry skin by providing a glowy, long-wearing finish with an oil-free formula,” Sarbaziha comments. 

This foundation is also one of the most raved-about, likely stemming from its jaw-dropping natural finish and buildable, easy-to-blend formulation. You’ll surely want to splurge on this one.

Though not a traditional foundation per se, the Iconic London Super Smoother Blurring Skin Tint is a hidden gem from a fabulous (and I mean fabulous) indie beauty brand that needs more attention.

If I’m looking for a quick-apply, hydrating foundation, this is the one I’ll reach for — no questions asked. Not to mention, it has a gorgeous, satin-matte feel that looks like “your skin, but better.”

“This skin tint with dimethicone and glycerin provides a satin finish while hydrating the skin with its key calming ingredients,” Sarbaziha notes.

Meet the foundation I’ve been using for years on end: the Anastasia Beverly Hills Luminous Foundation. For less than $40, this foundation is a trusty one that’s great for extra coverage (note: it’s a bit more full-coverage than some others on this list). Even better, it’s long-wearing and water-resistant.

“This liquid foundation does a good job at covering discoloration and irritated skin without drying it out,” Sarbaziha notes.

For more, check out our full Anastasia Beverly Hills brand review.

True story: I had the opportunity to meet the legendary Mario Dedivanovic (Kim K’s makeup artist), and his knack for makeup application is ultra-impressive. His relatively new SurrealSkin Liquid Foundation is no different, thanks to its natural finish, impressive shade range and effective hydration.

“This hydrating liquid foundation contains natural ingredients like grapeseed oil and vegetable squalene to hydrate the skin while providing a glowy appearance,” Sarbaziha explains.

This is one of those foundations that looks beautiful no matter how you apply it. I love pairing this with a loose powder and, after, dusting some powder blush onto my cheeks.

You’re not a beauty junkie yet unless you’ve tried NARS and yes, its Light-Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation is surely worth all the hype it receives. Specifically, this foundation is one of the most lightweight options that’ll still even out any redness or imperfections on the face. For that reason, it’s a great option to add to your cart.

“This oil-free foundation does a good job at blending in with skin’s texture to provide a smoother, brighter appearance,” Sarbaziha notes — and, I can attest. It’s one of the easiest to blend, helping to reverse the look of dry, chapped skin.

For dry skin, Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez is one of your best bets. The Liquid Touch Weightless Foundation measures up to more expensive options on this list while only costing $30.

“This liquid foundation suits both oily and dry skin as it has a weightless, serum feel that blends in with all skin types,” Sarbaziha says.

Plus, it’s both buildable and long-lasting, serving as a wonderful base for the rest of your makeup.

The amount of times I’ve raved about the Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation should speak volumes about its feel-good coverage that stays on for the entire day. It’s a makeup artists’ favorite (trust me, after speaking to a bunch, this is the one always in their kits) and a little goes a long way.

Even better, it contains hyaluronic acid for that dreamy, nourishing finish your dry skin craves.

“This hydrating foundation uses squalene and hyaluronic acid to provide a flawless base for makeup while pampering the skin,” Sarbaziha highlights. “This is one of my top foundations for dry skin.”  

Shop the bareMinerals COMPLEXION RESCUE Natural Matte Tinted Moisturizer (that also contains hyaluronic acid and, just as good, SPF) if you prefer something more lightweight than most.

“This oil-free tinted moisturizer is great for everyday makeup use as it contains SPF,” Sarbaziha says. “It’s best to use with a hydrating primer since it has a matte finish.”

Not to mention, it’s extremely buildable, especially great for warmer temps and doesn’t contain any harsh ingredients that’ll irritate your skin. Check yes on this one, for sure.

As its name suggests, the SEPHORA COLLECTION Best Skin Ever Liquid Foundation is the closest formulation to glowing, even-covered skin that’s only $20.

“This liquid foundation uses natural ingredients like red algae extract and brown algae with hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin and provide a luminous base for makeup,” Sarbaziha explains.

It’s a wonderful long-wear option, too, that doesn’t take long to blend and buff out. For the price, generous shade range and inclusion of hyaluronic acid, it’s a winner.

Though a surefire splurge, Pat McGrath Labs knows what it’s doing in the foundation game. Its Sublime Perfection Foundation has been a favorite of mine for years, always looking exceptional if I have a wedding or formal occasion to go to. However, it’s just as good for everyday use, and I love how it offers a versatile, natural finish.

“This noncomedogenic [meaning, it doesn’t clog pores], liquid foundation has a weightless, hydrating feeling ideal for anyone with dry skin,” Sarbaziha adds.

The Hourglass Cosmetics Ambient Soft Glow Foundation surprised me with how natural it blended and how glow-y it made my skin look after application.

“This weightless foundation does a good job at blurring out any imperfections in the skin to deliver a smooth, glowy finish,” Sarbaziha notes.

Topped off with the brand’s top-rated Veil Translucent Setting Powder (that’s also worth the hype), you’ll be satisfied and skin-hydrated.

Clinique has always been a staple for me in terms of its consciously curated ingredient blends that are apt for sensitive skin, so its Stay-Matte Oil-Free Makeup Foundation has been one I’ve kept on hand for years. If you’re prone to flare-ups and don’t love the look of makeup that results in some glow or shine, this one is perfect for your day-to-day makeup routine.

“This oil control foundation is best for people with combination skin, as it provides a long-wearing matte finish.” That said, if you have dry spots like me (around the nose, on the chin), this is a good option that will suit you well.

Ahead, Sarbaziha gives us the 411 on foundations equipped for dry skin, including what ingredients to look for and how to properly apply it to the skin.

First things first — there are some telltale signs that your skin is dry in the first place, as dry skin can be identified through various signs.

“One of the most common indications is a rough texture to the skin,” Sarbaziha tells The Post. “Additionally, dry skin often exhibits flakiness, redness, peeling, increased fine lines and wrinkles and itching.”

It’s important to note that these symptoms can persist throughout the year for individuals with dry skin, and they may be exacerbated in warmer and drier climates.

When selecting a foundation for dry skin, there are certain qualities to look for.

“Opt for foundations that contain hydrating ingredients and moisturizing formulas,” she recommends. “Some beneficial ingredients to consider include ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin and aloe vera.”

More, it’s generally recommended to choose liquid or cream-based foundations as they provide a more youthful appearance, while powder foundations can potentially highlight dryness.

With any makeup product, there are always some ingredients that are best to avoid — both for the health of your skin and the efficacy of the product once applied.

“It’s wise to avoid foundations with a matte finish as they can exacerbate dryness,” Sarbaziha notes. “While oil-free makeup is still suitable for dry skin, it’s important to note that more oil does not necessarily equate to increased hydration.”

Additionally, be cautious of potential irritants such as heavy scents, dyes, parabens, or other synthetic ingredients that can further irritate dry or cracked skin.

Whether a water-based foundation is better for dry skin depends on individual preferences and skin conditions.

“Water-based foundations can provide hydration without clogging pores, while oil-based foundations have the potential to hydrate but may also cause pore blockage and breakouts,” she notes.

Preparing dry skin before applying foundation involves several steps.

1. Start by cleansing your face with a hydrating cleanser that helps retain skin moisture and clear out pores.
2. Follow this with the application of hydrating serums, such as those containing hyaluronic acid or hydration boosters.
3. Afterward, apply a moisturizer and/or SPF, either separately or as a moisturizer with SPF incorporated.
4. Allow a few minutes for these products to absorb, and then apply a primer. Both oil-based and water-based primers can be used based on personal preference and how they feel on your skin.
5. Finally, apply your chosen foundation.

“To properly apply foundation on dry skin, you can use a beauty blender or a foundation brush on clean and moisturized skin, Sarbaziha offers. “It’s important to avoid harsh rubbing and instead apply the foundation gently for a seamless, hydrated finish.”

Regularly cleaning your makeup brushes or blenders is essential to prevent the spread of dirt and maintain optimal hygiene, too.

According to Sarbaziha, foundation may appear to be drying out the skin or becoming cakey for several reasons.

“Layering the foundation too heavily, using an outdated product, or selecting a foundation that is too heavy or unsuitable for your skin type can contribute to this issue,” she lists. “To avoid a cakey look, opt for lightweight and sheer foundations, and steer clear of matte finishes.”

Check out the New York Post Shopping section for more content.