Q I am prone to having acne and eczema on my face and need help with make-up as I'm entering the workforce soon. How should I go about applying make-up so as to look presentable?
A First, get some help for your acne and eczema. We consulted Dr Fredric Brandt, an American celebrity dermatologist with his own line of skincare products, who says the cause of acne and eczema is usually highly sensitive skin that is easily irritated.
He reckons your eczema is probably caused by some form of allergic reaction.
'The key to managing this is to educate yourself very thoroughly on skincare. As a start, it would be best to do an allergy test with a dermatologist to determine the specific chemical that you are allergic to,' he advises.
Many ingredients commonly used in skincare clog pores or cause allergic reactions, he says. One example is parabens, which are commonly used to extend the shelf life of products despite being known to aggravate allergies.
'You need to scrutinise the labels on all skincare and make-up products and avoid any ingredients that could exacerbate your condition,' he adds.
Some products you can consider include the following from the Dr Brandt skincare range: Anti-irritant Laser Relief ($152), Lineless Infinite Moisture ($125) and Blemishes No More Intensolution ($80).
The Clear Complexion kit ($70) from the preservative-free skincare brand Boscia may also be helpful. It is formulated for problem skin and contains ingredients like willow bark extract to minimise acne breakout.
As for make-up, make-up artist Larry Yeo says that less is more. 'The more make-up you pile on to conceal your skin problems, the more obvious they will look.'
A good concealer is crucial. Yeo suggests Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Clearing Concealer ($32), which helps to treat acne while providing coverage.
Apply to your blemishes as well as the undereye area to even out your skin tone. Toning down the redness of your acne and hiding dark undereye circles will help create the illusion of a polished complexion.
This article was first published in Urban, The Straits Times.
