How To Cover Rosacea with Makeup Without Making it Worse

You don't necessarily have rosacea if you have sensitive skin, but you definitely have sensitive skin if you have rosacea.

If you suffer from the burning, swelling, and dryness that can occur with rosacea, then you know how hard it is to find makeup and skincare products that don't irritate your skin. 

It's also frustrating trying to find makeup that helps cover the red flushing, visible blood vessels, bumps, and acne that often develop. Even more of a challenge is finding a makeup that conceals without damaging your skin further.

Here are some of our top makeup tips for protecting your sensitive skin and eliminating triggers while you apply.

And, of course, how Oxygenetix breathable formulas will become your best ally in dealing with rosacea.

Patch Test Products First

First and foremost, patch test all products you are using for the first time on your wrist for a few minutes before applying all over your face. Everyone's skin is different and what works for someone else with rosacea might not work for you. 

Keep it Sanitary

Your skin is more sensitive to bacteria when you have rosacea. Maintain clean skin by cleansing twice a day, especially before applying makeup and before going to bed. Use a safe, fragrance-free cleanser and always treat your skin gently. Avoid triggering a flare-up by using lukewarm water instead of hot. And clean your makeup brushes and sponges frequently.

Apply a Hydrating Topical

Rosacea often causes overly dry skin so combat this symptom with a powerful moisturizer. Moisturize after you cleanse your skin to prep for your foundation application. Oxygenetix Hydro-Matrix is a miracle for those with sensitive skin. Its gentle formula has been proven hypoallergenic and breathable so it won't clog your pores and won't irritate your skin. 

Choose Your Foundation Wisely

Keywords to look for when choosing an all-over foundation for rosacea: hypo-allergenic, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and oil-free. 

Fragrances are known for causing the most skin irritation, especially if you already have sensitive skin. So ditch the scented stuff.

Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation saves the day on this one. It meets all requirements for cleanliness and safety measures to gently cover your rosacea. The aloe vera base is a godsend when your skin feels hot and inflamed. To top it off, Oxygenating Foundation heals your skin at the same time. 

Lex Guiles, also known as @thetalontedlex, has lived with rosacea for over 14 years. She told Refinery29 why Oxygenetix is now her go-to foundation, "In the past, I used to pile on heavy formulas that made my skin feel smothered. Now, I prefer a few layers of a light foundation." 

"My current favorite foundation is the Oxygenetix Oxygenating Breathable Foundation. It was designed to be used immediately after chemical peels and similar treatments, so it’s incredibly gentle on sensitive, reactive skin. It has an aloe vera base and not only gives natural coverage but helps to heal and soothe my skin."

Oxygenetix Acne Control Foundation with maximum strength 2% salicylic acid combats bacteria for certain types of rosacea. The additional gentle exfoliation from this foundation is great for smoothing affected skin while remaining gentle and soothing. 

Apply Foundation Gently

When applying your foundation avoid using your fingertips if you have rosacea. Your fingers can harbor oils and bacteria that can irritate your skin. Instead, opt for a clean brush or new sponge. Use gentle strokes and avoid pulling at your skin.

Avoid Powders

Powder makeup has the potential to microscopically cut your skin, causing even more irritation. Avoid powders as much as you can. When using your Oxygenating Foundation, your skin will look flawless and you won't even need to anyways. 

Use an SPF

Using an SPF every day is important for everyone, and crucial if you have rosacea or sensitive skin. You're in luck if you already use your Oxygenating Foundation for your base. This nutrient-rich foundation has a physical SPF 30 to protect your skin from the extra triggering heat and rays of the sun. The best part about having your foundation and SPF all in one product is you are limiting the number of products you use on your face. Less is more when it comes to being gentle on your skin.

Use Gentle Eye makeup

Be cautious with what you choose to apply next to your eyes, especially if you have ocular rosacea. Look for the same keywords when choosing your eyeshadows, mascaras, and eyeliners: hypo-allergenic, non-comedogenic, paraben-free, fragrance-free, and oil-free. 

Stick to What Works

When your skin gets used to a certain product and it is working for you, keep using it! There's nothing worse than constantly changing products when your skin is easily irritated. Once your skin gets used a routine, stick to it and you will have fewer flare-ups to deal with.

April is rosacea awareness month and we have joined the #rosaceaawareness movement with The National Rosacea Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to shedding some light on this potentially serious condition. 

To learn more about the symptoms and treatments available check out our blog: Rosacea: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment. Get checked by a dermatologist if you think you may have rosacea. 

For more information on rosacea awareness and what you can do to help visit The National Rosacea Society website. 

#rosaceaawareness