Most people see buying makeup as an investment. Who doesn’t want to look good, after all? It can be highly frustrating for people if they discover that they react to it, however. Some people break out in hives or have painful itchy skin. It can turn red, dry, or even flakey. 

If someone already knows they have sensitive skin or some sort of skin condition, they may struggle to navigate the right choices of makeup for them. Let’s have a look at seven tips to make the whole process simpler. 

1. Consider Mineral Makeup

The good news is that mineral makeup is not always more expensive. According to this useful guide, most makeup (including some vegan brands) include heavy oil, wax, preservative, and other chemicals that can clog the pores and create outbreaks. A lot of brands add fragrances too, and this can be bad news for anyone with eczema, psoriasis, acne, or rosacea. By way of contrast, mineral makeup will not create a reaction on hypersensitive skin. By way of contrast, mineral foundations are good for sensitive skin and will not create a reaction on hypersensitive skin.

2. Maintain Cleanliness

Many makeup items are only good for between six and twelve months, so it’s important to check the dates and throw the old stuff away. It would be ironic if a person spent their money on makeup for sensitive skin, only to use dirty equipment that harbors germs. Brushes are an intrinsic part of the makeup process. Because of this, they can take frequent use but will need to be cleaned on a weekly basis. This will reduce the chances of experiencing irritation or them housing bacteria. 

When it comes to reducing germs, consider using latex-free makeup tools. They are cleaner, so they will harbor fewer bacteria. Solid makeup sticks or compacts don’t contain water, which can be a home for germs. Such products also have fewer preservatives as a result, which will benefit the skin. 

3. Remove it at the End of the Day

It can be a real bind having to remove makeup when all you want to do is crash out after a tiring day. The problem is that foundation and sealer form a mask over the skin, keeping any bacteria inside. This can result in outbreaks of spots, rashes, or irritation. 

Our skin needs to be able to breathe and replenish itself. This can happen overnight while we are sleeping with no makeup on. Be wise when choosing the products to remove your makeup with. Virgin coconut oil is a good choice because it is kind to peoples’ skin. It also moisturises the skin as it is applied. 

4. Avoid the Cheap Stuff

People get what they pay for, and this applies to makeup very well. Cheap brands may have a  higher element of synthetic ingredients that are harsher to the skin. Over time it can take its toll upon peoples’ bodies and increase ageing.

Makeup containing cheap ingredients can be responsible for anything from rashes to allergic reactions. The offending elements range from preservatives to parabens, bulking agents and mineral oils, synthetic pigments, binders, and fillers. It’s important to check these do not feature in your makeup if you have sensitive skin. Even some organic makeup may contain one or two of these elements.  

Generally speaking, more costly makeup will have a higher element of plant-based content. Because these are more natural, they will be gentler on the skin. More expensive makeup may also include a measure of moisturiser, which is great in preventing the dried out skin that can occur with regular makeup use. 

5. Use Decent Tools

The choice of brush is not such an issue; people can use synthetic or natural ones as they wish. The key thing is that they are soft to the skin and not used with a scraping action to cause irritation. 

Eyeshadow should be applied gently with a soft brush and eyeliner with a soft but angled brush for precision. Sponges can be helpful when it comes to smooth application, and they should be used in a blotting motion. In some instances, latex can trigger ectopic dermatitis

It’s amazing how effective it can be to apply makeup by hand. This is because it naturally warms the makeup as it goes on. Cleanliness is important here. Make sure your hands are clean; this is all the more true if you tend to have blemishes.  

6. Protect the Skin from Drying Out

Our skin contains natural moisture. Drinking water regularly helps keep the skin hydrated. The application of makeup can fight against this, however. If there are pigments inside the makeup, it will dry the skin. For that reason, BB cream is better than using a foundation. Before applying any makeup, it can be useful to first moisturise the skin by spraying thermal water. 

Anyone who applies powder to their skin will be aiding the drying out process. This will then remove the skin’s protective oils.  People who use powder should at least tap the area after use to remove the surplus. The motto here is that ‘less is more.’ The beauty of mineral powder is that only a small amount needs to be used to achieve a fantastic look. Lipstick can be a significant part of someone’s look, but one has to be wise. If it is bright red in colour it will dry the skin. 

7. Be Kind to your Eyes

Be kind to your eyes

We mentioned that pigments could be an issue for peoples’ skin. The deeper the colour, the more chance there is of experiencing an allergic reaction. Heavy eyeliner may be great to look at, but it can irritate the skin as well. Consider using a ballpoint liner instead. It’s a good idea to use waterproof mascara. This serves as a shield, protecting the skin from pollen and dust. 

Whilst having sensitive skin can create issues for makeup users, there are a number of ways around this. People can use mineral makeup and keep their equipment clean. They can remove it faithfully every night and avoid the cheaper products. Makeup users can have the most suitable tools and protect their skin from drying out. Additional care should be taken when applying makeup to the eyes. 

The internet is full of helpful tips and advice for people battling with sensitive skin. As a general rule, the fewer ingredients your makeup has, the better. Some products say on the packaging that they have been dermatologically tested or are hypoallergenic. It may also be beneficial to see a dermatologist in order to obtain personalised advice. With a little care and attention, remarkable results can still be achieved. 

Check out Soulfactors for more tips on women’s fashion and makeup.

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