How to Cover Acne With Makeup

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[MUSIC PLAYING] Got a case of mild acne you'd love to cover? For those days when a bare face just won't do, here's how to apply makeup so it's less likely to make your acne worse. You carefully washed and dried your face and put on your acne meds. Now you're ready for-- no, not makeup-- moisturizer.

Even oily skin needs moisture. Add those drying acne meds, and skipping it can create dry, red, flaky skin that's hard to cover with makeup. Just stay away from pimple producers like cocoa butter, coconut oil, or synthetic lanolin. To protect your skin from the sun, ask your dermatologist to recommend a moisturizer with an SPF of at least 30.

Now you're ready for the m-word. Here's the rule. All of your makeup from foundations to blush to eyeshadow should be oil-free and labeled as noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic-- big words that simply mean the products shouldn't clog your pores.

Start with an oil-free concealer made for acne. You might need to mix two shades to match your skin. Always use clean makeup sponges and brushes to apply any product-- easier to blend, doesn't spread bacteria.

Uh oh. Got a pimple just begging to be popped? Resist.

Instead, apply an ice cube wrapped in tissue to the spot. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Let it rest for a minute and repeat. Cold reduces swelling. And with any luck, the pimple will soon look better.

Here's another tip. If you have a lot of red spots, try a concealer with a green tint. Green neutralizes red because it's on the opposite side of the color wheel. Apply a tiny amount just on the red spot and blend carefully. It should disappear into your skin. You don't want to look like Halloween.

Time for foundation. Some people like mineral powders. Others swear by water-based versions.

Whatever your choice, make sure it's full coverage. You don't want to apply layer after layer. Just one should do the job.

While the foundation is drying, add eye makeup. Emphasizing your beautiful eyes is a great way to divert attention from your blemishes. A bit of blush and a pop of lip color also helps. You'll want to set the foundation with a powder made for acne. Look for one that gives a natural finish that you can use for a touch up during the day.

Don't forget to remove your makeup before bed. Use makeup remover or wash your face gently twice to be sure that all traces of product are gone. Sleeping in makeup may only make your acne worse and even harder to conceal.

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