I have dry skin and Rosacea; I also have large pores. No matter what lotions I use or what makeup I try, I can't seem to get a natural look. Help!
A natural look is achieved by using as little makeup as possible. The redness and irritation associated with Rosacea present a difficult challenge. Obviously, you've got to treat the Rosacea first to calm the skin and prepare it for cosmetic fine-tuning. For treatment of large pores, I highly recommend N.V. Perricone products. (See my recommendation list for more excellent products.)
- Soothe the skin as much as possible, either with topical antibiotics from your dermatologist or topical anti-inflamatories, such as alpha lipoic acid.
- Lightly dampen your face with water and then pat on a gentle oil-free moisturizer. Let it absorb.
- In preparation for foundation, add a drop more oil-free moisturizer to the tips of your fingers or makeup sponge (whichever you prefer using), then add your foundation and with a light patting motion, place that mixture softly (don't rub!) onto the red areas. Let it set a minute.
- Finish with translucent powder.
If you'd like to try something extra creative, M.A.C just came out with Select Cover-Up, a tinted concealer. To counteract redness use the green tint, but, and this is very important, you must apply conservatively. Place about a teaspoon of foundation in the palm of your hand, mix in a tiny dot of cover up, blend together, and apply as I directed.
Recommended Products:
M.A.C Select Cover-Up
Liquid concealer to use alone or with foundation, available in "corrective" shades.
Price: $17
Available: (800) 387-6707, M.A.C boutiques and counters, maccosmetics.com
M.A.C Full Coverage Foundation
Creamy, blends easily, and is available in an array of colors. To counteract redness, ask for foundation in the "NW" range.
Price: $24
Available: (800) 387-6707, M.A.C boutiques and counters, maccosmetics.com
N. V. Perricone, M.D. Alpha Lipoic Acid Face Firming Activator
Improves the appearance of skin tone and texture, while minimizing enlarged pores and fine lines.
Price: $95
Available: (888) 823-7837, perriconemd.com
N.V. Perricone, M.D Phosphatidyl-E Lipid Bi-Layer Repair Face Cream with Tocotrienols
Intensely hydrating face cream in a unique non-greasy formula.
Price: $120
Available: (888) 823-7837, perriconemd.com
Murad Pure Skin
Contains Vitamins A and B and zinc; studies have shown a 55% reduction in blemishes, excellent for treating inflamation caused by Rosacea.
Price: $43
Available: (800) 388-9017, murad.com
Murad Pomphenol
A super-antioxident and natural defense booster designed to use the body's own resources to help defend against environmental damage. Dr. Murad's studies have shown that one tablet a day can increase the SPF of topical sunscreens by up to 25%.
Price: $36
Available: (800) 388-9017, murad.com
Murad Acne Treatment Gel
Contains salicylic acid, retinol and anti-inflammatory properties to minimize breakouts, keep pores clear and calm skin (not for sensitive skin types, though). Oil-diffusers reduce shine and leave skin with a matte finish.
Price: $44
Available: (800) 388-9017, murad.com, Sephora, sephora.com
Murad Oily Prone Skin Formula
Prevents cell buildup and has ingredients to control excess oil production.
Price: $48
Available: (800) 388-9017, murad.com, Sephora, sephora.com
M.A.C Blot Powder
I've said it before, but I'll say it again: "I can't live without this stuff!" Use it alone or over foundation. It adds no color or texture, it doesn't cake, and you only need a little to smooth your complexion.
Price: $23
Available: (800) 387-6707, M.A.C boutiques and counters, maccosmetics.com
