While most of us are looking forward to the drop in temperature, sipping pumpkin spice latte and wearing cosy knits during the winter months, it is the dry, parched and flaky skin that all of us dread. Layering makeup on flakey skin is a task too (ugh!).
As frustrating as this problem seems, don’t worry, we got the perfect solution to it. With the right makeup tips and tricks, it is possible to conceal dry and flaky skin and make it appear super soft and smooth; no kidding! Read on to find out how…
- 01. Prep your skin before bed
- 02. Moisturise before makeup application
- 03. Use a hydrating primer
- 04. Switch to cream formulas
- 05. Apply makeup with a damp makeup sponge
01. Prep your skin before bed

If you want to conceal flaky, parched skin with makeup, then it is better to prep your skin by applying a thick moisturiser or facial oil before going to bed the previous night. The thick formula of night creams and facial oils will help to soften the appearance of dry skin and make it appear a lot smoother in the morning.
BB picks: Lakme Absolute Hydra Pro Overnight Gel
02. Moisturise before makeup application

Correctly and adequately moisturising your skin before makeup application is the key to getting your makeup to appear natural and non-cakey. Start with applying your regular winter moisturiser, and then go over it with a thicker formula in the areas that are super dry and flaky. Massage the product into your skin and allow it to rest before blotting away the excess for smoother base makeup application.
BB picks: Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance
03. Use a hydrating primer

A primer is an extremely important step in your winter makeup routine as it helps to reduce flakiness by creating a thin, protective layer between your skin and makeup. Use a hydrating formula to ensure that your makeup sits on the skin flawlessly without aggravating the appearance of flakiness.
BB picks: Lakme Absolute Blur Perfect Makeup Primer
04. Switch to cream formulas

Winter is the time when you need to ditch all your powder makeup products and switch to cream-based ones, especially if you have really dry and flaky skin. Cream-based products do not dry out your skin or enhance the dry patches, thus making it the perfect choice for the colder, drier months.
BB picks: Lakme Absolute 3D Cover Foundation
05. Apply makeup with a damp makeup sponge

If you have dry, flaky skin, then it is best to avoid applying makeup with a brush as it enhances the dry patches on your skin. Instead, switch to applying makeup (especially foundation) with a damp makeup sponge using short, patting motion. This will make your base makeup products sink into your skin without irritating or aggravating the dry spots.
Written by Urvi Dalal on Sep 28, 2020
Writer, avid reader and hardcore beauty enthusiast is the best way to describe Urvi Dalal. With over 5 years of writing experience in the beauty industry, you can trust her to have the latest skin, hair and makeup tidbits on her fingertips. In her time working as a beauty writer, she has had the opportunity to interact and work closely with a string of dermatologists, makeup artists and hairstylists. All that knowledge exchange, coupled with her flair and love for writing make it possible for her to bring you some authentic yet fun beauty content. When Urvi isn’t working, you’d usually catch her curled up with a big, fat book, drinking a cup of tea or practising her makeup skills; there is no in-between!