Rosacea is a disorder of the skin. According to the National Rosacea Society, it primarily occurs between the ages of 30 to 60. Although it generally appears on the face, it can also appear on the chest or neck. The cause is not actually known, and may be genetic, because it appears most often on those who have fair skin and blush easily.
Rosacea and Appearance
Persons who have rosacea have bright red patches of skin, often with pimple-like bumps and sometimes the appearance of tiny veins. Unfortunately, it appears most often on the face – on the skin of the cheeks, nose and chin. In extreme cases, the skin of the nose may thicken and become deformed, and the eyes can appear watery and bloodshot.
Medical Treatment of Rosacea
There is no known cause or cure for rosacea, but dermatologists give patients oral and topical medications, depending on the type and severity of the disease. This can slow the progression of the disease and relieve burning and stinging that can accompany the rash. There are also herbal remedies, such as jojoba oil, which may soothe symptoms.
The Importance of Makeup for Rosacea
Rosacea can be described as the “acne of middle age.” Like acne, it causes disfigurement that can negatively affect one’s career and social life. Rosacea is thought to be caused by alcoholism, so it bears an additional social stigma. The need to conceal rosacea with makeup is very important to those who suffer from the disease.
Tips on Buying Make-up for Rosacea
Cosmetics may aggravate the condition. The National Rosacea Society recommends the following for safe skin care:
- Avoid cosmetics that contain alcohol, witch hazel, menthol, peppermint, clove, or eucalyptus oil.
- Use fragrance-free products; the ingredients in fragrances commonly cause allergic reactions.
- The product should be labeled “allergy tested;” “hypoallergenic” is not clearly defined.
- UV protection is an essential component of skin care products for rosacea.
- Use multi-purpose products to reduce the number of cosmetics on the skin.
- Use a brush, rather than a sponge, to reduce skin irritation.
- Concealer and foundation should be anti-bacterial.
- Clean the brush after each application of make-up.
Green Concealer is Key to Rosacea Makeup
Fortunately, there are make-up products from trusted lines of cosmetics that are designed to conceal the red color that draws attention to rosacea. Concealers with the color green counter-act the color red. Green concealer can be found both in lotion and in powder form.
How to Apply Makeup for Rosacea
First, the Rosacea Society emphasizes gently washing the face. It is advised that persons who have rosacea clean with non-soap lotions. If your facial skin is oily, use very gentle soap and rinse with lukewarm and not hot water. The skin should be dried by means of blotting – not rubbing - with a soft cotton towel.
The second step in hiding redness and visible blood vessels is to apply a green concealer, which can be a lotion or powder. The concealer is applied by brushing directly onto each affected area and then blending for a smooth look. Bumps can be dabbed directly with concealer and then blended in with foundation.
Finally, the Rosacea Society recommends oil free foundation, either cream or powder, to provide a seamless look. It should match the natural skin color as closely as possible. Foundation should be applied lightly, starting in the center and blending outward. Use broad strokes for large areas of the face and thin strokes using the side of the brush for hairline, eyes, nose, and mouth.
Recommended Makeup Products for Rosacea
The Rosacea Society prefers mineral powders because they contain few ingredients. These products usually come with powder foundation that further hides redness. Two examples of this type of product are called “Powder Finish Concealer” and “ Color Correcting Foundation Primer in Green.”
According to Marie Claire, “The Best Products for Rosacea,” © 2010 Hearst Communication, Inc., of a list of ten, the number one recommended product is “Daily Perfecting Lotion,” an inexpensive lotion that covers a large area of skin. Second is “Anti-redness Skincare Lotion.” Number five is a mineral powder, called “Everyday Minerals Mint Color Correcting Concealer.” Eight is a gentle cleanser called “Rosaclear.” Other products mentioned cost in excess of $50 to $100 for a small tube, while the mineral powder costs only $8.00 (also for a very small amount).
Some persons have very large areas of rosacea, such as roacea in the chest and neck, presumably caused by driving in the sun, as the underchin is not affected as well as the face. The best makeup to cover such a large area is by far "Daily Perfecting Lotion," of which a small amount covers a large area. Topped with a powder foundation, a smooth and lovely finish is accomplished quickly.
Importance of Makeup for Rosacea
The availability of makeup to cover up redness is an important advance in the cosmetic industry for those who suffer from rosacea. Makeup is equal to medicine in the treatment of rosacea, because it helps patients attain social acceptance and preserves their beauty as well as their self-esteem.
