My Experience as a Makeup Artist with Ultra-Sensitive Skin

Hi, beauty lover with delicate skin!

If you’re searching for the best makeup for dry and sensitive skin, you’re not alone. This 2025 guide is here to help.

Technique 1: Micro-Encapsulated Moisturizers Before Makeup

Recommended product: Charlotte Tilbury Magic Water Cream

In 2025, simple hydration isn’t enough. Brands like Charlotte Tilbury now use micro-encapsulated hyaluronic acid that slowly releases moisture throughout the day. This keeps your foundation from settling into lines or clinging to dry patches.

Technique 2: Probiotic Primers to Calm Irritation

Recommended product: Milk Makeup Hydro Grip + Niacinamide

This new generation of primers doesn’t just smooth—it prepares. With ingredients like niacinamide and probiotics, it soothes your skin while helping makeup last longer.

When doing makeup for dry and sensitive skin, using a probiotic primer helps calm irritation and improve texture.

Technique 3: Two-Step Foundation for Natural Full Coverage

Recommended products: YSL Nu Bare Look Tint + Concealer Fusion

Here’s my favorite combo from YSL:

1. Start with a lightweight tint for a natural finish.

2. Then apply a thin layer of concealer only where needed.

This way, you get full coverage without a “cakey” or washed-out look.

Technique 4: Cooling Eye Serum Before Concealer

Recommended products: Dior Capture Totale Super Potent Eye Serum, La Mer Eye Concentrate + metal applicator

Apply eye serum using a metal applicator before concealer. It reduces puffiness and preps the skin so concealer won’t crease. Dior’s serum + La Mer’s cooling applicator? Magic.

Technique 5: Hybrid Lip Oils (Tint + Balm + Plumper)

Recommended products: Dior Lip Glow Oil + Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Lip Oil

These oil tints plump, treat dryness, and add a juicy shine without stickiness. No more cracks, no more flaking — just soft, glossy lips.

Technique 6: Soft Setting with a Two-Step Mist Combo

Recommended products: Caudalie Grape Water Mist, Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray

You hydrate first, then lock it in with an alcohol-free setting spray. The result? A long-lasting velvet-skin look that still feels fresh.

Technique 7: Mixing Serum with Foundation

Recommended products: Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Serum + your foundation

Mix a drop of B-Hydra with your foundation. It instantly makes your base more hydrating and smooth. Pro tip: it pairs amazingly with NARS foundations.

Technique 8: Lip Primer Before Lipstick

Recommended product: Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask (as primer)

Apply a thin layer of Laneige mask like a primer, wait 5 minutes, wipe it off, and then apply lipstick. Your lips stay soft and color goes on smoother.

Final Thoughts

In today’s beauty world, doing makeup for dry and sensitive skin isn’t just about choosing the right brand. It’s about smart layering, new technology, and gentle ingredients.

I’ve personally tested every one of these techniques on myself and clients in different climates—Tehran, Istanbul, and Dubai. I hope this helps you not just look beautiful, but feel truly safe and comfortable in your own skin.

Want to master the full skin prep before makeup? Don’t miss my guide: Flawless Skin Prep Before Makeup: 2025’s Smart Routine.

With love,

Roshi

These tips are my go-to for professional makeup for dry and sensitive skin in cities like Dubai and Istanbul. They’ve helped my clients feel confident and calm, even in challenging weather conditions.

Beauty is power — especially when it’s kind to your skin.