How to Hide Scars With Tinted Moisturizer

How to Hide Scars With Tinted Moisturizer
Photo Credit Makeup image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com

Scarring is a form of tissue repair that occurs when the skin is injured and collagen fibers re-grow abnormally, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. When scars first form, they can appear red or purple and hardened, making them noticeable on the skin. While a scar will fade with time, you may wish to conceal the scar with makeup, a practice physicians often recommend as the scar heals. Tinted moisturizer offers a lightweight alternative to heavy concealers that can make the scar appear unnatural, according to Marie Claire magazine.

Step 1

Wash your skin with a gentle cleanser. According to Skincare Beauty Zone, cleansing the skin prior to applying tinted moisturizer helps to give the product a good surface to grab on to.

Step 2

Apply a thin coat of skin primer to the scarred area. Primers are typically silicone-based and help to even out fine lines and smooth skin, according to Bella Sugar. If the scar is red, a green- or yellow-tinted skin primer can help to neutralize this area. Allow time for the primer to fully dry.

Step 3

Dab on your tinted moisturizer to the affected area. Apply as you would a concealer---lightly dab it on with your ring finger. This helps to avoid smearing the moisturizer, which can make the application appear uneven. Allow the moisturizer time to dry.

Step 4

Apply another coat of tinted moisturizer over the scarred area if you feel the coverage was not consistent. Blot any excess with a tissue or toilet paper.

Step 5

Dust on a light coating of loose powder if your scar is in an area where your skin tends to be oily, such as the face. The powder will help to reduce shine as well as "set" the tinted moisturizer in place, making the effect last longer.

Tips and Warnings

  • Select a tinted moisturizer that is labeled as "oil-free" or "non-comedogenic." This signifies the moisturizer will not clog the pores and result in breakouts or irritation around the new scar tissue. The sun's ultraviolet rays can discolor the scar tissue. Purchasing a moisturizer that contains a sun protection factor of 15 or higher can help to protect your scar against the harmful effects of the sun.

Things You'll Need

  • Skin cleanser
  • Primer
  • Loose powder

References

Article reviewed by Lisa Dittrich Last updated on: Sep 28, 2010

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