Best tips for sensitive skin: Makeup

Cosmetics have been used for thousand of years to help woman (and even men) look and feel younger and more beautiful, but for those with sensitive skin using cosmetics can be an expensive expensive challenge of trial and error. As we age, skin does become more sensitive, so follow these make up tips for sensitive skin.

1. Choose powder when possible

Powder cosmetics are not only good at removing shine, they have very few preservatives and contain minimal ingredients that can caused skin irritation. Powder cosmetics are much less likely to cause problems for women with sensitive skin than their liquid counterparts.

2. Avoid waterproof cosmetics

While waterproof cosmetics, such as mascara, are great for tearful moments, they require a solvent to remove them that also removes sebum, the oily substance made by the sebaceous glands in the skin. Without this oily barrier, skin is exposed to potensial irritant that can cause skin to breakout.

3. Throw out old cosmetics

We all tend to keep makeup until it's gone; and not pay any attention to its actual expiration date. This is a decided no! Keep track of cosmetic expiration dates and throw out any items that have past their peak. Old makeup products may become soiled or contaminated, a particularly important point when it comes to eye products. A few standard product life spans include: one year for foundation and lipstick; three to four months for mascara; and two years for powder and shadows. Also, it is important to wash makeup brushes and sponges regularly; they can harbor dirt and germs that will aggravate sensitive skin.

4. Use black colored eye products

Women with sensitive skin will find that dramatic black is best when it comes to eyeliner and mascara product colors. Dermatologists feel that black is the least allergenic of all colorants. Apply in moderation; you do not want to look like you're going to Halloween party!

5. Stick to earth-toned eye shadows

Lighter earth tones, such as tan, cream, white or beige, seem to cause less upper eyelid irritation in women with sensitive or itchy eyes. These shades also are more attractive for mature women.

6. Use pencil eyeliner and eyebrow fillers

Pencil eyeliner and eyebrow pencils are usually wax based and contain pigment and minimal preservatives. They are much less likely to cause problems than liquid eyeliners that contain latex and may cause problems in latex sensitive individuals. The pencil form of these cosmetics are also water removable, making them easier on the surface of the skin.

7. Check sunscreen ingredients

Dermatologist recommend daily use of brod spectrum sunscreen with Sun Protection Factor(SPF) 15 or higher. For women with sensitive skin, this sunscreen should only contain the physical sunscreen ingredients zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Unlike chemical sunscreen agents which absorb UV rays, it is impossible to be allergic to physical sunscreen ingredients since they deflect the rays rather than absorb them. Use products that contain no more than 10 ingredients; the fewer ingredient in a product, the less likely it is that the product will cause a problem. Many manufactures now make foundations with SPF factor 15 or higher, check the labels.

8. Use foundation based on siliconed

While powder is preferred to protect sensitive skin, women choosing a liquid foundation should look for one with a silicone base. Liquid facial foundation based on silicone do not cause acne, and silicone has a very low incidence of skin irritation. When selecting a foundation, be sure to choose one that goes with your skin tone; there is nothing quite as unflattering looking as a makeup line demarcation!

9. Use blusher sparingly

When shopping for a blusher, be sure to get one that compliments the tone of your foundation (powder or liquid) and apply to your cheekbones minimally, while blending in. Do not just put a big blotch on your cheeks! Sensitive skin already has a tendency to redness, so you may not need as much blush as others.