Make-Up Tips for Managing Eczema A Skin-Friendly Guide
Hello Eczema fighters, we have prepared an eczema and make-up guide to prevent you from damaging your skin and triggering your eczema symptoms while wearing make-up.
Look for Makeup with Soothing Ingredients
Seek out makeup products that contain ingredients known to calm eczema, such as colloidal oatmeal, aloe vera, or ceramides. These ingredients help maintain the skin barrier and reduce inflammation while wearing makeup.
Is It Safe to Cover Eczema Patches with Makeup?
For individuals dealing with eczema, the temptation to cover up irritated, flaky skin with makeup is understandable. However, applying makeup to eczema patches can worsen symptoms, delay healing, and increase the risk of infection.
Avoid Irritating Preservatives and Dyes
Eczema patients should be particularly careful about makeup containing parabens, phthalates, and artificial dyes. These can be more irritating to eczema-prone skin than they are for people without eczema.
Beware of Nickel in
Makeup
Some makeup, particularly certain eyeshadows or metallic-based products, can contain nickel, a common allergen that may trigger eczema flare-ups. If you're nickel-sensitive, avoid metallic shades or use makeup labeled as "nickel-free."
Use Hydrating
Foundations with Emollients
Eczema-prone skin needs extra hydration. Opt for foundations that contain emollients like glycerin, squalane, or shea butter, which help lock in moisture and prevent dryness throughout the day.
Choose Mineral-Based Sunscreens in Makeup
For eczema fighters, sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (common in mineral makeup) are less irritating and provide a protective barrier without causing flare-ups.
Avoid Waterproof
Makeup
Waterproof formulas, especially mascaras and eyeliners, require more effort to remove, often involving harsh makeup removers or scrubbing, which can aggravate eczema. Opt for easy-to-remove, non-waterproof versions instead.
Focus on Areas of Involvement
If eczema tends to flare around the eyes or mouth, avoid applying makeup to these sensitive areas. Instead, use makeup sparingly around regions prone to eczema to minimize irritation.
Steer Clear of Exfoliating Makeup
Some foundations or primers may contain exfoliating agents like salicylic acid or retinoids, which can be too harsh for eczema skin, leading to irritation and increased dryness
Cream-Based Formulas on Dry, Eczema-Prone Areas
For areas affected by eczema, use cream-based blushes, eyeshadows, and highlighters. These products tend to be more hydrating and are less likely to emphasize dry patches compared to powders.
Prioritize Skin Barrier
Repair
Focus on makeup products that work with your skin to maintain its natural barrier. Products with lipids, fatty acids, or cholesterol can help repair and protect the skin barrier, which is often compromised in eczema patients
12 Makeup Tips Eczema Fighters Should Avoid
Some Eczema treatments (like topical corticosteroids or vitamin D analogs) can thin the skin or make it more reactive. Ensure that your makeup products are compatible with your treatments. Avoid using makeup immediately after