Strategies for Hiding a Blemish: Suggestions, Items, and Tricks
Covering up pesky pimples with cosmetics? No problem! Here's a lowdown on concealing your acne-struggles, using makeup like a pro.
Covering Up Your Pimples
Wanna tone down that angry red zit? We feel ya! Lotta makeup options can help hide those unsightly blemishes.
According to a 2017 study, around 70% of folks with acne scarring and dark spots said they use makeup to hide it[1]. Yep, breaking out can be a real buzzkill. But with the right makeup, you can cover those skin concerns like a ninja.
Here are the best makeup types to help you conquer your acne:
- Foundation
- Concealer
- Tinted moisturizer
- Beauty balm (BB) creams
- Color control (CC) creams
Let's dive into each one and discover product recommendations!
Lay the Foundation
Long with primer, foundation acts as a base, evening out your skin tone and texture. Foundations come in liquid, powder, cream, and stick formulas[2].
Foundations can cover small bumps that aren't too red or discolored, and they usually work well on whiteheads and blackheads. Just remember that different types of foundation work better for different skin types.
- Light coverage foundation: gives a barely even skin tone, suitable for a more natural look.
- Medium coverage: blends well with mild redness, discoloration, or small bumps.
- Full-coverage foundation: serves up a more opaque look, great for dealing with bigger pimples or uneven skin tone.
PSA: Steer clear of super thick foundation. It can make big zits stand out even more[2].
Time to Conceal
Concealers come in stick or liquid formulas[2]. Perfect for covering up specific spots on your face. Concealers do a more impressive job of hiding those pesky pimples compared to foundation alone.
Green concealers might resemble something from a sci-fi movie, but they actually reduce redness or discoloration by neutralizing the tone[2]. Just don't forget to use a yellow concealer to counteract any purple-toned blemishes.
Tint Your Complexion
Tinted creams and moisturizers can help soften the appearance of breakouts, all while giving you a subtle glow[2]. Think of tinted moisturizer as foundation's cooler cousin.
BB and CC creams are similar to tinted moisturizers but often include extra benefits like SPF, pigments, vitamins, brighteners, moisturizers, and firming agents[2].
Picking the Perfect Shade
When it comes to choosing a shade, getting it right can be a real challenge. The wrong color can draw attention to those areas you want to hide.
The best way to choose a shade is by getting store advice and doing a hygienic test on your face[2]. If that's not possible, hold the color next to your face in the clearest light and look in a mirror.
Consider buying two shades close to your skin tone and blending them for a custom color. Keep in mind that if the recommended product doesn't have a shade that matches you, it might not be the right product for you. Time to move on!
Application Tips
To make the most of your hide-the-acne makeup routine, follow these steps:
- Clean your face and hands before applying makeup.
- If you use treatments, let them absorb fully before applying makeup.
- Apply primer to smooth out your skin texture.
- Dab concealer only on the spots you want to cover. Blend it out gently with a brush or sponge.
- Apply foundation, tinted moisturizer, or cream all over, blending carefully around your concealed spots.
- Set everything with a dusting of powder.
Remember, the American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests using non-dirty makeup applicators instead of your fingers[2].
Does Makeup Make Acne Worse?
Can makeup cause acne? Maybe, but not all makeup will lead to a zit fest. However, some ingredients in popular makeup brands can clog pores and lead to breakouts, potentially triggering a vicious cycle[4].
To help prevent this, choose makeup products labeled as non-comedogenic and steer clear of ingredients like coconut oil, olive oil, and palm oil, which can clog pores[4].
A 2021 research review suggests treating your acne and using the right kind of products can help break this cycle[4].
15 Best Products to Cover Up Pimples
Stumped on what makeup to buy? Check out these 15 excellent products for covering up pimples!
Foundations
- The Ordinary Serum Foundation
- PÜR 4-in-1 Foundation Stick
- bareMinerals Original Foundation
Liquid Concealers
- Maybelline New York Facestudio Master Conceal
- e.l.f. 16HR Camo Concealer
Concealers for Darker Skin Tones
- Maybelline Fit Me! Matte & Poreless Foundation
- MAC Studio Radiance Face and Body Radiant Sheer Foundation
Medicated Concealers
- Neutrogena SkinClearing Blemish Concealer
- Maybelline Dream Pure Skin Clearing BB Cream
- Neutrogena SkinClearing Oil-Free Acne and Blemish Fighting Liquid Foundation
Green Concealers
- NYX Studio Photogenic Concealer Wand
- Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick
- L'Oréal Paris Makeup Magic Skin Beautifier Anti-Redness BB Cream
BB and CC Creams to Cover Acne
- e.l.f. Camo CC Cream
- CoverGirl Clean Matte BB Cream
Always keep in mind:CLEAN YOUR APPLICATORS OFTEN and avoid applying too much pressure to affected areas to prevent irritation and redness!
References:[1] https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/isotretinoin/about/pac-20393358[2] https://www.acne.org/news-education/blogs[3] https://www.byrdie.com/what-to-do-about-breakouts-when-you-have-to-wear-makeup[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7226867/[5] https://www.allure.com/story/best-acne-concealers[6] https://www.acne.org/media/concealer-best-acne-routes-2017.html
- Investing in the right skincare products can help manage acne before concealing with makeup, ensuring a smoother application and longer-lasting results.
- A 2021 study showed that using medicated concealers and foundations labeled as non-comedogenic can help prevent breakouts caused by makeup products.
- If you're on a budget, consider looking for qualifying products on credit lines, such as store cards or financing options, to make the purchase more affordable.
- Remember to replace your makeup products every three to six months to avoid bacteria buildup, especially if you're treating acne.
- After concealing your acne, consider using a loose translucent powder to set and extend the wear of your makeup, ensuring a flawless look for up to 16 hours.