Approximately 14 million Americans have a chronic skin condition that causes unsightly redness, bumps and pustules on the face, according to "Marie Claire." The condition, called rosacea, becomes progressively worse over time if left untreated. Although treatment options exist, rosacea has no cure. Most people control their condition through a combination of medications and cover it up with clever makeup applications.
Symptoms
Rosacea, an inflammatory condition affecting the skin, causes red patches or splotches on the face along with red bumps on the nose, cheeks, forehead and chin. Other symptoms include a reddened, bulbous nose, visible red blood vessels, burning eyes and frequent blushing, according to MayoClinic.com.
Causes
No one knows for sure what causes rosacea. However, some factors are known to exacerbate or aggravate the condition. Factors include stress, certain vascular drugs, hot or spicy foods, alcohol, cold or hot temperatures, sunlight exposure, exercise, hot water temperatures when bathing and steroid creams.
Treatment
Treatment options include topical medications applied directly to the affected area to reduce inflammation and redness. Oral antibiotics may also be prescribed in an effort to reduce inflammation. In cases of severe rosacea, isotretinoin, an oral medication, is prescribed in order to control oil production in the skin.
Concealers
Concealers, applied immediately after moisturizer and before foundation, help cover or hide skin imperfections. Concealers come in a wide variety of shades including mint green, yellow, lilac and pale blue. Each color counteracts its exact opposite color. Since green counteracts red, use a mint-green concealer to cover rosacea as advised by "Good Housekeeping."
Concealers come in a variety of consistencies and coverage options as well. As a general rule, cream concealers cover better than liquid concealers, but they feel heavier on the skin. For the best results, choose the lightest consistency that covers your rosacea.
Makeup Tips
Do not apply concealer to the entire area of the face. Rather, place concealer directly on top of red spots, blotches and visible blood vessels. To cover large areas, use a sponge or makeup application pad. For small bumps or highly visible areas, use a concealer pen or the tip of a concealer brush. Place foundation directly on top of the concealer, and set the foundation with loose or pressed powder.
