Make-up for Sensitive Skin
Buy the Right Make-up Products for Allergic or Sensitive Skin
Nov 12, 2009
Buying make-up for sensitive skin is as simple as following a routine:
Upset Skin
Allergic reactions to products itch, becoming hot or breaking out in bumps. This can start within a few moments of applying a product or after continued use. It is uncomfortable and can be unsightly, lasting for several days. Anyone can react to a beauty product but for most it is confined to a rare experience with a particular item. Unfortunately, for some people allergic reactions are more frequent.
Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and acne may not have their roots in cosmetic application but using the wrong products can worsen the symptoms and lead to discomfort.
Patch Testing and Trying Products
Patch testing products is a must. The best place to do this is behind the ear or inside the elbow: If a reaction takes place, then it will be in a small unseen area.
In the UK, there is a legal right to a refund on any cosmetic product which has caused a reaction. However, it can be time consuming, uncomfortable and disappointing to keep buying things which have to be returned.
- Try things before buying if hygiene permits.
- Ask for samples of products like primer or foundation. If these are not available then book in for a complimentary make-up application in order to try make-up on the skin.
- Keep receipts in case items need to be returned.
Use caution with hybrid products, for example a make-up primer which is also an anti-wrinkle serum. Active products are more likely to affect sensitive skin.
Reacting to a product does not mean it is bad, just that it contains something unsuitable for a particular person. However, products which affect many people adversely may be reformulated or withdrawn from the market: Giving feedback to retailers in case of an allergy keeps the quality of products high.
Hypoallergenic
The definition of hypoallergenic is " less likely to cause reactions" (New Oxford American Dictionary, 2006). This does not render allergic reactions impossible. In the UK there is no official government definition of the term hypoallergenic. Products marketed as hypoallergenic are worth investigating, but follow the usual precautions of patch testing.
Fragrance free products do not contain perfumes but as everything has a smell, they can contain artificial fragrance inhibitors. So also look for products scented with soothing plant extracts such as rose and chamomile. Or try products which simply smell of their ingredients.
Keep a note of specific known allergies such as latex or nuts and always check ingredients for these.
Mascara
Eyes are a naturally sensitive area.
- If possible, try mascara before buying using a disposable applicator.
- Avoid strong smelling formulas which can make eyes sting.
- Look for products designed for sensitivity. Try Chanecaille mascara with rose.
- Replace mascara frequently to prevent a build up of bacteria.
- For eyes prone to watering and itching, avoid mascara which contains fibers.
- Remove all mascara thoroughly at the end of the day with a gentle yet efficient eye make-up remover such as Talika.
Pigment and Glitter
Pigments sometimes cause reactions in people with sensitivity. However, avoiding very bright or angry-looking colors might help, it is also possible to be allergic to common natural pigments such as Annatto. Having reacted to a particular product, always patch test similar colored items even if they come from different brands. Use a process of elimination to find out which colors skin is more likely to be allergic to and always patch test before buying.
An item which has cleared a patch test may still cause irritation to the delicate eye area. So never use eye make-up for the first time before going out somewhere special.
- If anything starts to irritate the eyes unexpectedly remove it immediately.
Glitter can be very slightly abrasive. Usually being made from inert materials, glitter is unlikely to cause a deep allergic reaction to the skin but the feel of the product can cause discomfort for some.
Eczema can be easily irritated by shimmer and glitter. As an ongoing condition this can provoke the eczema to worsen even after removal of the product.
- For a party sheen without stress, try an oil such as Nuxe H'uile Prodigieuse, which imbues skin with a glamorous shine rather than shimmer.
- If in doubt try shimmer on lips in a creamy gloss or sprayed in to hair, rather than using a dry powder or sticky cream on the skin.
Patch testing as well as checking product ingredients helps to calm skin in the long term. By cutting down exposure to allergens in this way, skin can remain without reaction. Sticking to brands and products which are proven to be suitable is a must, as is using a thorough but gentle cleanser to clean off every scrap of make-up at the end of the day.
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