Getting rid of your acne is a big accomplishment and should be celebrated. But for many, the elation is cut short by the discovery that many of those blemishes left nasty permanent scars behind. As frustrating as this can be, you can get through your day to day life without drawing too much attention to yourself by wearing makeup that's appropriate for acne scars.
Acne Scar Types
Acne scars come in many different forms. First, there's simple hyperpigmentation that's left behind as a part of your body's inflammatory response. This usually fades over time. Rolling scars leave subtle indentations on the skin, while boxcar scars have sharp, defined edges and can be very depressed. Finally, icepick scars are very narrow and look like a big pore, but can be very deep. You obviously can't cover up depressions and indentations in the skin with makeup, but you can make them less noticeable.
Foundation
Foundation is a key component to any acne scar concealing arsenal. It's important to find a shade that matches your skin tone precisely. Your best bet is to go to a department store and have a makeup artist there match a shade to your skin tone. This will help the foundation blend more evenly into your neck and look more natural. Look for a brand that offers full coverage to hide red marks and makes depressions less noticeable. Be careful to choose a product that's oil-free and won't clog pores to prevent additional acne breakouts.
Concealer
Sometimes, foundation isn't enough to mask pigmentation changes caused by acne. That's where concealer comes into play. Available as a stick, powder or cream, concealer can be applied directly to your problem areas to cover them up. It's best to use one that's a bit lighter than your natural skin tone for the most even blending. Concealer can be used on acne scars, acne or even just ruddiness.
Powder
A loose powder is a good way to set your foundation and concealer. This helps absorb any oil on your face throughout the day and helps you keep a flawless, shine-free finish for much longer. Plus, your makeup won't move around or smudge as easily, which means your acne scars will remain covered up for longer.
Tools
When using makeup to cover acne scars, it's important to have the right tools on hand. Foam makeup sponges are a must for applying foundation evenly and blending it well. Plus, they're disposable, so you won't introduce bacteria onto your face with repeated use. You should also have a concealer brush, which is available from any department store or makeup company for applying foundation or concealer to specific spots on the face. A large powder brush is also necessary for applying and blending in loose powder and avoiding a caked-on appearance.
Member Comments