Cold, Flu, & Cough Health Center

Covering Up Cold and Flu Symptoms: Beauty Tips

Cold and Flu Symptoms: The Great Disguise

When it comes to cold and flu symptoms, the one advantage women have over men is that cosmetics can hide a multitude of sins -- including making you look absolutely fabulous when you are feeling absolutely awful.

And while some of your regular makeup techniques will work just fine while you have a cold, Maron says, there are a few special tricks you should keep in mind.

"First, always use a moisturizer to help smooth the skin and minimize chafing," he says. Because your complexion can be slightly dehydrated when you're sick, it can dry out and chafe more easily from wind and cold. So, he says, don't skip this step.

Another tip: Go easier on foundation and powder. “Your skin needs to breathe more, and you'll feel more comfortable with less heavy makeup," says Maron.

Dickerson agrees. "When you have a cold you probably are dehydrated, so heavy makeup is just going to look cakey," she says. 

Simms says she opts for loose mineral powder foundation, applied heavier to conceal red areas and lighter on the rest of the face.

Maron says it's vital to perk up your complexion with color -- but choose wisely.

"Nothing adds vibrancy to your face more than lipstick. But stay away from too pale or overly muted colors and instead go for a vibrant shade of lip gloss," says Maron. To perk up your complexion, a peach-toned blush offers an instant healthy glow.

Eye shadow can also do wonders for those sleepy peepers, but Maron recommends avoiding purple and blue shades. "They tend to exacerbate red, watery eyes or redness around the eyes," he says. Instead, opt for a soft gray or brown shadow, and if your eyes are watery, skip the liner and just add a bit of water-resistant mascara.

To complete your look, Tony Promiscuo, owner of Godiva Salon in Atlanta, recommends using dry shampoo to make hair look fresh -- even without a regular wash and blow dry.

"Dry shampoos attract the oil produced by the scalp and keep it from working its way through your hair," he says. To use it correctly, he says, distribute it evenly throughout your hair and brush thoroughly. "I prefer to use less and do two applications than to use too much the first time," he says.

Cold and Flu Symptoms: Help for Your Hands

Nearly every expert says the best way to keep your cold from spreading to others is to wash your hands frequently, but that can net you some chapped, red hands -- particularly in winter.

One way around it is to skip soap altogether and opt for an antibacterial hand cleaner -- but be sure to choose one that also includes skin conditioners. Many experts recommend HandClens, which not only cleans your hands, but also softens them. Other brands include Purell and BodyCare Hand Santizier with Aloe.

If you'd still rather use good old soap and water, Schlessinger says be sure to use a potent moisturizer after every wash.

Finally, Maron says, even if you're having a "bad face day," try to smile, because "nothing masks a cold better than a great smile."