How to Put Makeup on Blemished Skin

Makeup and blemished skin didn’t always go together. There was a time when makeup wasn’t as advanced and inclusive as it is today, perpetuating the notion that people with acne have no business playing with makeup. You’ll still see it today on social media, where acne-positive content creators are shamed with comments like, “Don’t you wash your face?” or “Why don’t you cure your acne first?”

Thankfully, makeup has evolved since the dark ages of cakey foundations. Brands now create products that won’t clog or irritate acne-prone or blemished skin. In fact, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, it is okay to wear makeup if you have acne. The key is to keep everything clean and bacteria-free while being mindful of what’s in your products. Here are some tips on applying makeup on blemished skin.

If you have blemished skin, whether it’s acne scars or full-on breakouts, choose products that are oil-free, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic. These won’t clog or irritate your sensitive skin or worsen your breakouts. In terms of formulas, go for lightweight foundations and powders. If you can find a product that combines makeup with skin care and SPF, grab it ASAP.

Packaging isn’t always something consumers consider when buying makeup. However, you may want to pay more attention if you have blemished skin. Choose a foundation, primer, or cream blush in a pump bottle to minimize contact with bacteria. Forget about your favorite cushion compacts for now – double dipping is an absolute no-no for blemished skin!

Similarly, keep your makeup tools clean to prevent contaminating your products and skin with bacteria. The last thing you want to do is paint your face with the contents of what is essentially a petri dish. Wash your makeup brushes at least every week and replace your puffs regularly. Occasionally wipe palette surfaces with clean tissue to remove germs.

Never apply without washing your face first. To avoid irritating your skin, use a gentle cleanser like Dove Facial Cleansing Mousse Oil Control Care. It controls oil while moisturizing it with hyaluronic acid. You can also wipe your skin with Eskinol Pimple Relief Micellar Water, which cleanses while fighting pimples with cica and green tea.

Since your skin is inflamed, use a light touch when applying makeup. Create thin layers instead of caking it on ’80s style. It may sound counterintuitive, but the more you try to cover your blemishes with thick makeup, the more noticeable they become. Instead, spot-conceal your blemishes or use a green color corrector to mask redness.

While you’re not forbidden from using highlighters on blemished skin, you might want to avoid them anyway. Some can contain particles that can clog your pores. The extra shimmer can also make rough skin texture more noticeable. However, you can still have fun with color. Highlight your eyes and lips to draw attention away from your blemishes.

Sleeping with makeup on is a mortal sin, whatever your skin type. Remove all traces of product on your face without hitting the sheets to prevent more breakouts. The best and gentlest way to do this is by double cleansing. Start with an oil-based product to lift impurities from your pores. Follow with a water-based cleanser to get rid of excess oil, dirt, and residue.

Don’t let blemished skin keep you from having fun with makeup (don’t let the naysayers get to you, either). Just be diligent with your skincare routine and makeup hygiene. Now go on and show everyone that you, too, can slay.