Ask Kaylin: Makeup for Hyperpigmentation and Rosacea

Rosacea often manifests as redness in the face.
(Image: Kristie Wells via Flickr)

While some people seek out natural makeup to help prevent animal testing or to be more eco-friendly, many of my clients also are looking for solutions to health conditions such as allergies. More rarely, I have clients with redness from rosacea or uneven skin tone. While out a trip recently, I was asked what makeup I recommend for these conditions.

Leilani:
Do you have any makeup recommendations for hyperpigmentation or rosacea?

Disclaimer: I am not a licensed medical professional or licensed esthetician. Please consult your dermatologist or allergist before following any advice in this post.

Kaylin:
Before looking for solutions in makeup, I highly recommend seeing a dermatologist and/or a licensed esthetician for advice. They may recommend using SPF daily to prevent sun damage. Once you've completed that step, you can definitely use makeup to help create a more even skin tone.

• Before using any foundation or concealer, I recommend applying moisturizer and primer to give you a great base.
• To cover rosacea, you'll want to use a foundation with medium to full coverage, at least where your skin is especially red. Consider a cream to powder foundation such as this one by DeVita, or liquid foundations with medium coverage such as this set by Gabriel/Zuzu. I particularly recommend the Gabriel line, as it is available in many retail locations. Mousse foundation is another option.
• To cover hyperpigmentation, use a concealer underneath your foundation to even out your skin tone, or use two different colors of foundation, one to balance the hyperpigmentation, and the other to blend with your natural tone (on areas without hyperpigmentation). There is an interesting tutorial on hyperpigmentation coverage here. Again, you'll want to use foundation with medium to full coverage. See the point above for recommendations.
• As always, finish your application with powder to set.

Conditions such as rosacea may be exacerbated by makeup allergies, so don't settle for products with hazardous ingredients or allergens. Be sure to perform a patch test, as always, when trying a new product.

Disclosure notice: Some products mentioned in this article were sent to me free of charge by the manufacturer for review. No additional compensation was accepted and the opinions are my own. Please verify any claims with the manufacturer, especially if you have any allergies or concerns.

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