Makeup doesn’t have to be just one more thing triggering your next rosacea flare-up. More and more companies are making products for those who suffer from this skin disease. Whether you turn to makeup for concealment or to just feel pretty, here are five tips to help you put your best face forward without paying for it later.
- Be a smart shopper.
If you have filled prescriptions for your rosacea, you already know your face is going to cost you some green. When it comes to wearing makeup, your sensitive skin may force you to pay more for products than your girlfriends do. You will want to look for products that have as few ingredients as possible. Purchase organics when available, and if they already contain UV-blocking elements—even better. Avoid products containing alcohol, fragrance, and witch hazel.
- No rubbing allowed.
Ever wanted to hug someone and they didn’t want to be touched? Well, your face is like that person who doesn’t want physical displays of affection. The less you touch it, the better. When you wash, splash. When you dry, blot. When you apply moisturizers: gently use your outside fingers and avoid using those strong pointer fingers. When you apply makeup: use antibacterial brushes and sponges as much as possible.
- Conceal with color.
Let the color wheel do some work for you. Greens and yellows help to neutralize reds. Many products for rosacea have made their way to the market. Look for concealers with green tinting. Finish off your complexion with a yellow-toned foundation or loose mineral powder. Apply makeup with an antibacterial brush to avoid using oily fingers. The broader the brush, the fewer strokes touching the face. Most likely, your red cheeks will not need blush.
- Neutralize the eyes.
You will want to keep irritation in this delicate area to a minimum, especially if you have ocular rosacea. The more colorful the eye shadow, liner, and mascara, the more pigments and irritants they may contain. Apply neutral-colored mineral powders for shadow using an antibacterial brush. Apply a light mascara; look for one that can be removed easily with water without scrubbing.
- Forget about red.
By this time, you have put a good amount of effort into concealing your rosy complexion; don’t nullify your efforts by smudging on red lipstick. Even a small amount will call attention to all the red you just covered up. In fact, keep the red in your blouses and accessories to a minimum as well.
