The Ultimate Guide to Makeup for Different Skin Types

One of the most common makeup challenges is finding products and techniques that work harmoniously with your unique skin type. What looks flawless on oily skin might accentuate dryness on another complexion, and vice versa. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of makeup tailored specifically for your skin type—whether you have oily, dry, combination, or sensitive skin.

At Open Contour, we've worked with countless clients across all skin types and understand the nuances of each. Here, we'll share our professional insights to help you achieve your most radiant, long-lasting makeup looks.

1. Makeup for Oily Skin

Oily skin tends to produce excess sebum, which can cause makeup to slide off or appear shiny within hours of application. The key is to control oil without stripping the skin, and to use products that help maintain a matte finish.

Key strategies:

• Start with a mattifying primer that contains ingredients like silica or clay to absorb excess oil.
• Use oil-free, water-based foundations labeled "matte" or "long-wear."
• Set your foundation with a translucent powder, focusing on the T-zone.
• Carry blotting papers for touch-ups during the day.
• Opt for powder blushes and bronzers over cream formulas.

Recommended products: Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Mattifying Primer, Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation, Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder.

2. Makeup for Dry Skin

Dry skin often appears flaky or rough, and makeup can settle into fine lines or cling to dry patches. Hydration is paramount, and cream-based products typically work best.

Key strategies:

• Exfoliate gently 2-3 times per week to remove flaky skin.
• Apply a rich moisturizer and let it absorb before makeup application.
• Use a hydrating primer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid.
• Choose liquid or cream foundations labeled "hydrating," "luminous," or "dewy."
• Minimize powder use—opt for cream blushes, highlighters, and contour products.
• Finish with a hydrating setting spray to melt powders into the skin.

Recommended products: Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer, Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation, RMS Beauty Living Luminizer.

3. Makeup for Combination Skin

Combination skin features both oily and dry areas, typically with an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) and dry cheeks. The challenge is balancing these different needs without over-drying or over-moisturizing any area.

Key strategies:

• Apply mattifying primer only to oily areas and hydrating primer to dry zones.
• Use a medium-coverage foundation that isn't too matte or too dewy.
• Set only the T-zone with powder, leaving cheeks more natural.
• Consider cream-to-powder formulas that adapt to different areas.
• Carry both blotting papers and a hydrating mist for touch-ups.

Recommended products: Smashbox Photo Finish Control Mattifying Primer (for T-zone), First Aid Beauty Coconut Skin Smoothie Priming Moisturizer (for cheeks), NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation.

4. Makeup for Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin reacts easily to certain ingredients, becoming red, itchy, or inflamed. The focus should be on gentle, fragrance-free products with minimal irritants.

Key strategies:

• Patch test new products before full-face application.
• Look for products labeled "hypoallergenic," "fragrance-free," and "dermatologist-tested."
• Avoid products with alcohol, synthetic fragrances, or harsh preservatives.
• Use mineral-based makeup which tends to be less irritating.
• Remove makeup gently with micellar water or oil cleansers rather than harsh wipes.
• Keep skincare simple to minimize potential reactions.

Recommended products: Clinique Redness Solutions Makeup, BareMinerals Original Loose Powder Foundation, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Teint Fluid.

5. Makeup for Mature Skin

As skin ages, it typically becomes drier and develops fine lines and texture. Makeup should focus on hydration and light reflection rather than heavy coverage that can settle into wrinkles.

Key strategies:

• Prioritize skincare with plumping ingredients like peptides and hyaluronic acid.
• Use a hydrating primer to smooth texture before foundation.
• Opt for light to medium coverage foundations—heavy formulas accentuate lines.
• Choose cream or liquid blushes and highlighters over powders.
• Avoid matte lipsticks which can be drying—opt for satin or glossy finishes.
• Use a fine mist setting spray rather than powder to set makeup.

Recommended products: IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream, Chantecaille Future Skin Gel Foundation, Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter.

Universal Tips for All Skin Types

Regardless of your skin type, these fundamental practices will help your makeup look its best:

• Skincare first: Always start with clean, well-prepped skin appropriate for your skin type.
• Less is more: Build coverage gradually rather than applying heavy layers all at once.
• Blend thoroughly: Take time to blend foundation and other products seamlessly into the skin.
• Consider the season: Your skin's needs may change with the weather—adapt your routine accordingly.
• Clean your tools: Dirty brushes and sponges can cause breakouts—clean them weekly.

Remember, these guidelines are starting points—your individual skin may have unique needs. Don't be afraid to experiment (carefully, if you have sensitive skin) to find what works best for you.

For personalized recommendations tailored to your specific skin concerns, consider booking a makeup consultation with one of our visagistes. We'll analyze your skin type and create a customized makeup plan just for you!