If you suffer from rosacea, you need to take special care in purchasing and applying makeup to avoid worsening your condition. You may find that mineral powder makeup causes fewer skin problems than traditional makeup products. Mineral powder products contain no oils, and unlike most other foundations, are meant to be applied with a brush. Using a brush rather than fingers or a sponge applicator to apply makeup minimizes the possibility of exposing sensitive skin to bacteria.
Definition
Rosacea is a chronic inflammation of the skin characterized by visible small blood vessels and redness on the skin of the face, particularly the cheeks, chin, forehead and nose. Those with more severe cases may also develop small, pus-filled bumps and a red, bulbous nose, according to MayoClinic.com. Besides causing outbreaks of redness and bumps on the face, rosacea can also cause irritation to the eyes. Although rosacea cannot be cured, your dermatologist can prescribe medication and provide counseling about lifestyle changes to help control the symptoms.
Types
Some kinds of mineral powder foundations are specifically formulated for users with rosacea. Powders with a yellowish tint help correct for excess skin redness. You can find mineral powder eye shadows and eyeliners in a variety of colors. Natural colors may be less likely to cause eye irritation than dark or bright colors of pigment. Mineral powder blush is also available, but rosacea patients should apply sheer blusher sparingly if at all to avoid emphasizing redness.
Advantages
Some dermatologists recommend mineral makeup to their rosacea patients because it has soothing, anti-inflammatory qualities, according to Acne-Rosacia-Relief.com. Many regular makeup products include fragrances and dyes that can aggravate rosacea. Additionally, many regular makeup products contain chemicals added to extend the products' shelf life. Since mineral makeup does not require preservatives, it is less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
Considerations
You can apply mineral powder alone or use it over a traditional foundation for more coverage. The National Rosacea Society recommends applying powders with an antibacterial brush. Wash the brush frequently to avoid spreading bacteria to the skin, which can cause rosacea flare-ups.
Warning
Rosacea sufferers need to protect their skin from the sun, which can exacerbate redness and other rosacea symptoms. Mineral makeup layered over an SPF lotion can provide additional protection, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, commonly found in mineral makeups, act as natural physical sunscreen barriers, reflecting the sun's ultraviolet rays away from the skin. In addition, natural minerals bond to the skin, making them water- and smear-resistant, thus providing long-lasting protection from the sun.
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