Hyperpigmentation
If you have melanin-rich skin, the chances are that your beauty bête noire is dark spots or an uneven skin tone. Influencer Patricia Bright documented her journey of tackling the condition with a full-on skin and make-up regime.
So why is darker skin more prone to hyperpigmentation? Well, it’s because darker skin has larger melanocyte cells, so when it suffers any type of inflammation like a breakout, extra melanin is produced – causing hyperpigmentation. Upping the strength of SPF is one way to deal with dark marks. IT Cosmetics CC cream provides major sun protection in the form of SPF 50+, which is a must if you want to stop dark marks getting worse. If t-zone oiliness is a concern too, try Rimmel’s Lasting Matte foundation for Olympic level no-shine coverage.
Acne
When you’re dealing with breakouts, you want your foundation to conceal every bump in sight. But this is counterproductive in most cases and can actually worsen the condition.
Keep an eye out for foundations that are non-comedogenic, meaning the product has been formulated to avoid clogging up the pores. Sadly, it’s not a magic wand’ to make acne disappear from sight. However, such formulations can be a big help. Oxygenetix ACNE Control Foundation was initially created for doctors to prescribe to their patients. Now available to buy over the counter, it works to diminish acne scarring, combat dehydration and reduce the appearance of angry spots. Alternatively, Smashbox Studio Skin Full Coverage 24 Hour Foundation is non-acnegenic and all of its raw materials have been scrutinised to ensure it won’t prompt breakouts.
Vitiligo
The beauty of make-up is that it can be used to champion the skin you’re in. Skin conditions such as vitiligo don’t have to be camouflaged.
Instead you can use foundation to brighten, smooth and even highlight unique areas on the face. Hourglass Seamless Finish Liquid Foundation packs such a pigmented punch that you don’t need very much product to get maximum coverage. Thanks to light reflecting mircospheres, it does a stellar job of reflecting light so the skin looks positively glowing. For something a bit more tailor made, take a look at Microskin. Originally developed in Australia, this completely waterproof system allows the skin to breathe naturally while providing effective coverage for vitiligo. It’s only sold via a consultation, but trust us when we say it’s worth it as your skin is digitally scanned by a consultant during the appointment…
Psoriasis
When it comes to looking after psoriasis-affected skin, the fewer ingredients you use on your face the better.
Avoiding products that contain parabens, sulphates, and mineral oils is paramount too as they have the potential to aggravate sore and itchy skin. That said, make-up is still an option. It just requires scouting out the right formulas to provide flawless and protecting coverage. Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation and Concealer is perfect for those days when skin needs concealing with minimal products. It’s oil-free and lightweight so that it doesn’t feel heavy, yet the pigments are dense enough to mask patches of psoriasis. Another option is bareSkin Pure Brightening Serum Foundation. Coveted for its ability to let skin breathe, it harnesses finely milled mineral pigments that don’t clog pores or suffocate skin.
