How to Wear Makeup when You Have Eczema

How to Wear Makeup when You Have Eczema

Eczema can cause chronically red, dry, itchy skin that can make it challenging to apply makeup. Also called atopic dermatitis because of its similarity to an allergic reaction, eczema usually occurs persistently. However, there’s no reason you can’t wear makeup despite your skin condition! Use products that will minimize your risk of an allergic response, practice the right makeup techniques, and do your best to calm your skin to create a smooth, even surface.

Use a mild, unscented cleanser.

Perfumes and dyes may irritate your skin further, so wash your face with a mild cleanser that’s fragrance-free. Gently lather your face with warm water and rub your face with your fingertips, then rinse it off thoroughly. Avoid harshly scrubbing your skin – this won’t make it smoother, and it may irritate your skin more.

Moisturize twice a day.

Eczema can cause dry, flaky skin, so keep your skin as smooth and moist as possible by moisturizing regularly. Choose a rich, non-comedogenic (won’t clog your pores) moisturizer. Apply it to your face twice a day after a bath or shower while your skin is still moist.

Use products that reduce irritation.

Some cosmetic products – familiarly called cosmeceuticals – include ingredients that reduce inflammation. This is a great option if you have eczema. Look for anti-inflammatory ingredients like niacinamide and antioxidants.

Seek out hypoallergenic products.

Purchase products that are labeled hypoallergenic, or less likely to cause an allergic response. This is very important, especially for products that go all over your face like moisturizer or foundation. Select fragrance-free, dye-free products.

Say no to shimmer.

Shimmery products can enhance dry patches and problem areas, so stay away from products containing shimmer. Shimmer can also cause skin irritation, so is better avoided even on areas of clear skin.

Do trial and error.

Because atopic dermatitis is like an allergic reaction, finding the right products may involve some trial and error. If a new product causes a flare-up in your eczema or redness, itching, or inflammation, throw it away. Note what ingredients it contained and try to avoid those ingredients. Try products one at a time until you find some that soothe your skin without causing irritation or allergic reaction.

Try to use only a few products at a time to reduce the risk of having a skin reaction. Choose moisturizer, foundation, and some accenting makeup and leave it at that.

If a product causes itching, redness, or irritation, stop using it immediately.

Test any new skin products before using them on your face. Dab a small amount of the product on your forearm twice daily for 4 days. if you don't have a reaction at the test site, it should be okay to use on your face.

Use a recovery cream base.

Rather than trying harsh exfoliants on scaly patches, use a nourishing cream to repair and protect your skin. This will create a smoother, healthier surface for makeup. Avoid brands that use the ingredient bismuth oxychloride, which can be irritating.

Try companies like W3LL PEOPLE and Alima Pure.

Avène Recovery Cream and Le Roche-Posay Toleriane Teint Fluid have been recommended to give good coverage without clogging pores.

Apply makeup with your fingertips.

Pat or dab your makeup onto your skin with your fingertips. Makeup brushes can hold germs that can worsen your skin, and brushing makeup over scaly patches can leave makeup caught in flakes. Use your fingertips for better control and a cleaner application. Always wash your hands first!

Use cream foundation and concealer.

Powders can get caught in flaky areas and highlight skin problems. Use cream foundation and concealer instead, which can be better blended over problem areas. Apply your moisturizer or recovery cream base first, then use your fingers to gently apply cream foundation. Follow-up with small dabs of concealer blended over problem areas.

Define your eyes with gel liner and a flat brush.

Use a gel liner rather than a pencil so you don’t have to pull on your skin as much, which can cause irritation. Use a flat liner brush to push the liner into your lashes.

Your eyelids are very sensitive. If you use eye shadow, choose lighter colors with a matte finish – these are less likely to be irritating. Consider using only eyeliner and mascara and avoiding eye shadow altogether.

Use soothing lipstick.

If possible, choose a lipstick that contains hyaluronic acid. This keeps moisture in your skin without causing irritation. Stay away from lipstick with a matte finish if you have eczema around your mouth. A gentle alternative to lipstick is natural lip balm.

Accentuate your healthy skin.

If you have eczema on only one area of your face, highlight the rest! If your problem areas are around your eyes, invest in quality lip liner and lipstick and accentuate your look with a pouty mouth. If you have dry, flaky skin on your chin, go for a more dramatic look on your eyes.