Get the Red Out

Flushed, red spots can show up on your face for myriad reasons, including rosacea, eczema, dermatitis, burst capillaries, acne, rashes and who knows what else? Whatever it is, you may want to cover it with makeup. First, get to the source of the problem if you don’t already know it. Contact dermatitis is a rash that can happen as a reaction to any number of allergens or irritants, and once exposure to the agent causing the problem is limited, then it usually goes away. The cause of eczema is unknown, though it may be traced to an overactive immune response. Rosacea may cause red patches on the face that feel warm – for this reason, bacteria like to grow in these areas, causing pimples and bumps. “Warm” triggers such as sun exposure, exercise, alcohol and hot baths may trigger a flare-up. Keeping skin moisturized and using products for sensitive skin can treat and prevent many of these conditions. But in the meantime, you may want to cover those embarrassing spots. Use a protective sunscreen under makeup as a preventive, then stick with cosmetics that have just a hint of green in its hue. Green can neutralize red tones in the skin. Choose an oil-free foundation and concealer, and apply concealer in concentrated areas with an antibacterial brush. The National Rosacea Society recommends mineral makeup for sufferers; there are formulas specifically made to tone down redness, and it doesn’t tend to contain irritating substances. Extra-gentle eye makeup can help reduce eye irritation, and with cheek redness, blush usually isn’t needed. Less tends to be more when you have skin irritations, so go easy on the makeup.