Chalky artex ceilings

[Beansbaked]

Hello, I have some artex covered ceilings in my house that need re painting. I’ve noticed today they are quite chalky is this normal? What’s the best paint to use please and should I paint them with anything first to seal them?

 

[Wayners]

Artex that wasn't painted can seem a bit chalky.
If you wet a bit the artex changes colour then dries out. This shows it hasn't been painted.

The best way is to roll on a coat of gardz on but don't mess with it, as the artex will soften quickly until gardz dries out.

Other way is to water down emulsion and get a coat on and leave overnight. This will seal the surface.
Again don't mess with it as artex will go soft