Best Makeup for Sensitive Skin: 6 Products (2021)
When you have sensitive skin, wearing makeup can be an issue. Your skin can easily become irritated and inflamed. You never know how your skin is going to react to a product, so you're scared to try something new.
Luckily, there are makeup products made for sensitive skin. There are cosmetics you can use that can enhance your appearance without having an adverse reaction. You will want to look for makeup without harsh chemicals and fragrances, which often irritate sensitive skin.
When you're using high-quality makeup, you minimize the chances of having a problem. We are going to go over what makeup products you need if you have sensitive skin.
Sensitive Skin 101
Not everyone that thinks their skin is sensitive actually has sensitive skin. Only people that have a big reaction to specific ingredients or suffer from a pre-existing condition, like rosacea, have this skin type. There are a few signs and symptoms that you should pay attention to when deciding if you have sensitive skin.
When you use topical products and have an immediate reaction, you probably have this skin type. If you experience redness, dryness, breakouts, and burning, this is also a sign. You may also experience a stinging sensation and general inflammation when using products your skin doesn't like.
If you have sensitive skin, you can do a test patch before applying a product all over your face or body. The test patch will save you from experiencing a lot of these symptoms. You can use the side of your neck where your skin is thin and usually more reactive. Apply a small amount of product to the area. If after 24 hours you don't notice any issues, it's most likely safe for use.
What Causes Sensitive Skin?
There are a lot of reasons you may have sensitive skin. Here are a few things that may be the cause of your skin sensitivity.
- Genetics: Some people are more susceptible to sensitive skin because of their genetics. If you have thinner skin with naturally low oil production, your sensitive skin may be hereditary. People of Irish, Scottish, English, or Scandinavian descent generally have a higher chance of dealing with skin irritation.
- Over-exposure to the sun: Over-exposure to the sun can cause damage to your skin's natural barrier leading to sensitive skin.
- Health conditions: When you have skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis, you are more likely to have sensitive skin.
- Products: If you over-use products that contain harsh ingredients, like alpha-hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids, you could damage your skin and end up with sensitivity issues.
Foundation and Concealer for Sensitive Skin
There are a few things to keep in mind when looking for foundation and concealer when you have sensitive skin. Choose wrong, and your skin is going to let you know fast. You will then have to deal with the repercussions of using something your skin can't handle.
Avoid all of those issues by selecting the right foundation and concealer the first time. You will want to find one that is hydrating since sensitive skin tends to be on the drier side. You will also want to avoid harsh chemicals and fragrances in the ingredient list since they can cause irritation.
You may also want to look for a foundation with medium to full coverage. When you have sensitive skin, you are often covering at least a little bit of redness. A high coverage quality foundation will help you achieve an even complexion. HIDE Premium Foundation is made for all skin types and is formulated to provide buildable coverage. It doesn't have harmful ingredients, so you don't have to worry about irritation.
You will also want a concealer with the same attributes as your foundation. One that doesn't have any potential irritants and that can provide excellent coverage. HIDE Premium Concealer is water-based and offers hydration, and can cover any skin issues you're experiencing, from redness to dark under-eye circles.
Makeup for Sensitive Skin
You probably want more makeup than just foundation and concealer. Here are a few other tips when looking for other makeup products.
Mineral Eyeshadow
Look for a mineral-based makeup eyeshadow brand if you have sensitive skin. There are plenty of eyeshadows made with pure minerals ideal for long-lasting color. You want one that doesn't require chemical pressing agents in the creation process. Naturally pressed eyeshadow will help ensure your sensitive eyes won't get red or irritated.
Eyeliner
When you have sensitive eyes, the scariest part of your makeup routine can be eyeliner. You're putting a semi-sharp product close to your eyeballs and hoping for the best. However, there are plenty of soft liners made for sensitive skin.
Look for an eyeliner that contains vitamin E because it creates a smooth consistency that will go on easily. It won't cause you to tug or pull at your sensitive eye area. You can also look for one that is hypoallergenic, so you don't have a reaction to the ingredients.
Anti-Aging Blush
Find a blush with anti-aging benefits since they contain soothing ingredients for your skin. There is also vitamin E in these blushes, as well as jojoba esters that can be helpful.
If you get a cream blush, you can add some extra hydration. There are creamy, buildable blushes that are easy to use and don't contain artificial colors, synthetic chemicals, fragrances, and toxins. You can also use a mineral powder blush if you don't want to use a cream formulation.
Mineral Lipstick
You can also look for mineral-based lip products. They are made with natural ingredients, like olive oil extract. They are creamy and pigmented without harmful chemicals, so they are perfect if you have sensitive skin.
These are just a few suggestions, but you can apply these ideas to any makeup product. You may have to read the ingredient lists and look for things like "hypoallergenic." When you put in a little extra time, you could be saving your skin!
How to Treat Your Skin Before and After Makeup
When you are sensitive, you can help yourself by taking care of your skin before and after makeup. If you aren't careful with your skin during these times, it can lead to issues, and you won't be sure if it's the products or not.
Before you apply makeup, you may want to avoid using a cleanser in the morning altogether. You can splash your face with water or use a hydrating face mist instead. You also want to use a moisturizer to help protect your skin's natural barrier.
When it's time to remove your makeup, you want to be as gentle as possible. You don't want to stress it out or use a makeup remover that will cause irritation. Look for a natural cleansing balm or a gentle makeup remover to break down the products on your face.
Try to avoid makeup wipes since they can cause friction when you're wiping them across your face. Plus, they can also contain drying properties that aren't good for sensitive skin.
In Summary
The key to wearing makeup when you have sensitive skin is using high-quality products. You'll have to read an ingredient list or two to ensure there aren't harsh chemicals or other irritants present. Once you find a brand you can trust, like HIDE, you can feel confident trying their new products.
Get the Look
Shop the look at HIDE products so you can achieve a flawless complexion. We have products that shouldn’t irritate your sensitive skin!
- Concealer: HIDE Premium Concealer
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Foundation: HIDE Premium Foundation
Sources:
Skin Barrier Function and How to Repair and Care for It | Healthline
PG, 23andMe Uncover Genetic Ties to Sensitive Skin | Cosmetics & Toiletries