Makeup can be a powerful tool for changing our appearance and boosting self-confidence. However, if you have sensitive skin, it’s important to take precautions before using makeup. Although there is makeup for sensitive skin, proper preparation of your skin is crucial to avoid adverse reactions. Here, we’ll explore some tips on how to prepare your skin before applying makeup to prevent sensitivity issues.
What is Sensitive Skin?
Sensitive skin is a skin type that reacts negatively to certain chemicals or ingredients present in the products you use. Having sensitive skin can be due to genetics, but it can also result from skin irritation. Skin irritation can trigger skin inflammation, which causes your immune system to overreact whenever you’re exposed to allergens or irritants.
How Sensitive Skin Is Different from Normal Skin?
Sensitive skin reacts to products differently than normal skin. For instance, when you apply makeup to normal skin, your skin will not feel irritated. However, with sensitive skin, irritation happens when you use certain products. In some cases, you might feel a burning sensation or a rash could develop on your face. When it comes to using makeup for sensitive skin, you have to keep allergies in mind. Your immune system can sometimes overreact to certain allergens, which can result in rashes on your skin.
Why Do You Need To Prepare Sensitive Skin For Makeup?
When you decide to prep your skin, you’re essentially creating a clean “canvas” that you can work on while applying your makeup. With normal skin, you don’t have to be too concerned about what you do before you apply makeup. When you’ve got sensitive skin, on the other hand, you have to be careful. Failure to use sensitive skin toner, cleaner, and moisturizer can result in breakouts.
What Do You Need To Prep Your Skin For Makeup?
Now that you know why it’s important to prep your skin before applying makeup for sensitive skin, let’s take a look at the actual steps that you should take. Each of these steps plays an important role in helping your skin look great while reducing the risk of sensitivity reactions.
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Apply makeup to freshly cleansed skin: The first step is to use a good cleanser that’s gentle on your skin. Consider Rejuvoderm Clarifying Cleanser, as it’s gentle enough for your sensitive skin, but still great for getting rid of dead skin cells, debris, and excess oils on your face.
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Use a gentle exfoliator: Even though you have sensitive skin, it’s still important to exfoliate regularly. Use the Glowpeel for Dermal Exfoliation product. It’s gentle and it contains natural ingredients.
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Remember to tone your skin: A toner removes any debris that the cleanser missed and also offers benefits for your skin. Opt for the Maxatone Clarifying Toner to get fast and effective results.
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Revive tired eyes: Use a specialized eye cream around the skin that surrounds your eyes. Remember that this area of skin is thinner than the rest of your face, so it needs extra care and attention.
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Apply a light moisturizer: A product like the Infusoderm Deep Hydration Daily Moisturizer can help keep your skin hydrated.
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Prime your skin for a flawless finish: Before you begin with your regular makeup routine, consider using a primer. This is going to help create a clean and smooth canvas for you to work on with other makeup products that you want to apply.
Makeup Tips For People With Sensitive Skin
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Look at the expiration date: Don’t forget that makeup expires - and when it’s expired, the chances of causing a reaction are greater. Take a look at the expiration timeline of your makeup for sensitive skin, and compare this to when you bought the product.
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BB cream can work, too: If you find that heavy foundation causes reactions, then give BB cream a try. It also works great and can still help you achieve that flawless look.
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Some sponges contain latex: Apart from the actual ingredients in makeup, sometimes applicators contain materials that cause a reaction, too - and one of those often includes latex. Be wary of the fact that some sponges contain latex.
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Watch out for pigmentation: Something to keep in mind is that the more pigmentation makeup has, the higher the chances of experiencing a reaction. It’s a good idea to opt for something with less pigmentation if you’re worried about sensitivity.
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Consider water content: Another thing to keep in mind is the fact that some types of makeup products contain water, whereas others don’t (these are called solid makeup products). Stick to formulas that don’t contain water, as they contain fewer preservatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear makeup if I have sensitive skin?
It’s possible to wear makeup, but you have to be careful about the products you use. Focus on using products that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin, as they usually don’t contain any harsh ingredients. Look at the ingredients in each product, and don’t forget to regularly use an exfoliator for sensitive skin, as well as a gentle cleanser and a high-quality moisturizer.
How can I stop makeup allergy?
One of the best options is to actually consider what causes the allergy and then avoid those ingredients. Switch to alternative products that are free of ingredients that cause allergic reactions.
How can I protect my sensitive face?
Before applying any makeup products, it’s important to use a face wash for sensitive skin. Additionally, you should focus on using moisturizer and toner.
What to wear with sensitive skin?
It’s best to get products like a facial cleanser specifically for sensitive skin. If you decide to apply makeup, consider gentle formulas that won’t be harsh on your skin.
Is it safe to use foundation for sensitive skin?
Choose a foundation for sensitive skin and prepare your skin well before you apply the foundation.
What makeup to use if allergic to makeup?
Some brands specialize in creating hypoallergenic makeup products. Your best bet is to use one of these if you have allergic reactions to makeup.
Conclusion
Sensitive skin can be tough to deal with when you want to put on makeup. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t use makeup for sensitive skin. Start by understanding how you can best prep your skin before you apply products. Knowing what to do would reduce skin reactions and sensitivity.
References
1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5595600/
2] https://beminimalist.co/blogs/skin-care/how-to-use-a-toner-in-your-skincare-routine
3] https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/makeup-expiration-dates-guide
Amna Eltawil
Amna Eltawil is an Egyptian journalist who grew up on the coast of the Mediterranean in Alexandria, Egypt, before moving to Cairo and getting her bachelor's in journalism. From there, she went on to cover new stories and entertainment news for several local and international platforms. Amna enjoys visiting cities on the Mediterranean reminiscent of her childhood city Alexandria, like Barcelona, and she can never have enough of Paris, where she simply likes to walk the streets of the city and enjoy a simple Parisian crepe or have a chill picnic.
