A person living with psoriasis should consider avoiding certain makeup products that can worsen the condition. These include dyes, fragrances, and alcohol.
People with psoriasis who want to wear makeup should look for products that contain moisturizing ingredients. It helps to apply moisturizer regularly, including before applying makeup.
Sometimes, makeup can make psoriasis appear more noticeable.
If psoriasis impacts a person’s mental health, they should know that they are not alone. Mental health services can provide help and support, and people can also access psoriasis support groups.
The following article reviews makeup to avoid, ingredients that may be beneficial, and other beauty solutions for people living with psoriasis.
Beauty products such as concealers, foundation, and others can contain ingredients that may aggravate a person’s psoriasis symptoms.
When shopping for makeup, people with psoriasis should avoid products that contain specific chemicals and ingredients. A person should also take note of any product they react to and avoid products that have the same ingredients.
Some common things to avoid include:
Dyes
Most makeup uses pigmentation to provide coverage. While people may find it difficult to avoid them, some dyes can irritate symptoms for those living with psoriasis.
Alcohol
Alcohol is a harsh ingredient for many skin types. People living with psoriasis should avoid makeup products that contain alcohol to help prevent drying out their skin.
Fragrances
Fragrances are another known irritant for people living with psoriasis. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, this can include both chemical versions and essential oils. They state that even natural scents can irritate.
Makeup often does not contain ingredients that benefit people living with psoriasis. However, products that contain moisturizers may be helpful.
Moisturizers
When possible, a person should choose products that contain moisturizing ingredients. This may help stop the skin from drying out.
A person should also apply a moisturizer before applying makeup. Moisturizing can help soften the skin and prevent any symptoms from getting worse. People should look for a thick pre-makeup moisturizer that contains anti-inflammatory properties.
Learn more about the best lotions, creams, and ointments for psoriasis here.
Emollients
Emollients are a type of moisturizer that works by sealing hydration into the skin. People with psoriasis should choose a basic emollient with no fragrance or additives, such as Vaseline, Eucerin, or Aquaphor.
A person can also try wet wraps for psoriasis by applying cream to the skin and wrapping it in bandages. Wet wraps may help to ease symptoms.
Not everyone living with psoriasis will find makeup tolerable, and some may prefer to leave their skin natural.
The following are beauty solutions for those who want extra care or to avoid makeup.
Establish a skin routine
A regular skin care routine can help a person with psoriasis maintain healthier-looking skin overall. Though people with psoriasis may need to vary their routine to fit their treatment and needs, a person should consider:
- washing their face using a gentle soap or cleanser
- patting skin dry gently
- applying a cream to remove scaling gently
- using a moisturizer to help replenish the skin after washing
- applying additional moisturizer as needed throughout the day
- using sunscreen when heading outside
Though some skin care enthusiasts use toners, exfoliators, or serums, a person living with psoriasis should check with a doctor before using any of these products or techniques.
Learn how to remove psoriasis scales safely.
Get enough rest
One of the many benefits of sleep is its positive effects on a person’s skin. Good quality rest can lead to healthier-looking skin in people with or without psoriasis.
A 2013 study compared the facial appearance of people who got 8 hours of sleep with those who had only 5 hours. Their results noted that the sleep-deprived group generally had:
- more wrinkles
- swollen eyes
- dark circles under their eyes
In other words, getting enough sleep can help improve the appearance of a person’s skin naturally.
Stay hydrated
According to a
In people with psoriasis, hydration may also help alleviate some symptoms.
People who want to wear makeup as part of their daily routine can certainly do so, even with psoriasis.
People may find it helpful to:
- apply as little makeup as possible
- start with a buildable foundation
- skip concealer or use it only on spots
- not apply makeup to open lesions or scars
Finally, a person should only apply makeup if it makes them happy. If the appearance of psoriasis causes any self-doubt or embarrassment, a person may wish to speak to a counselor or other trusted source.
It is worth noting that while makeup may help a person reduce the appearance of psoriasis if they wish, medical treatment can help them reduce the severity and frequency of flares.
A person can discuss the most suitable form of treatment with a doctor. The following information may also be helpful:
Though makeup can contain products that aggravate psoriasis symptoms, people with psoriasis can still apply light makeup if they wish.
Many treatment options can help reduce the overall severity and frequency of psoriasis flares. A person can discuss these options with a doctor.
The choice to wear makeup is a personal one. If insecurity about their appearance negatively impacts a person’s mental health, they may wish to consider seeking support from a mental health professional.