Makeup has one purpose: to create an illusion. Makeup can create the illusion of flawless skin, a smaller nose, larger eyes, and softer lips. But, when makeup is used haphazardly as a beauty tool, it can enlarge wrinkles, deepen the look of scars, and make pores look like moon craters. In three easy steps, you can use the true power of makeup to properly conceal acne-damaged skin.
Step 1: Prep your skin with moisture
When you work with makeup, your skin is your canvas. Before applying makeup, you want your canvas to be clean and hydrated. One trick for smoother makeup application is to use a combination of rosewater and vitamin E moisturizing oil. To do this, fill a 2-ounce spray bottle with rosewater, then dispense five to ten drops. of vitamin E oil in the bottle. Attach spray nozzle to bottle, shake contents for 30 seconds to distribute oils evenly, then spray onto mist. You can get all of these items for less than $10 at your local pharmacy.
Step 2: Get the right liquid foundation
Foundation is called “foundation” for a critical reason. If you mess up your foundation, no matter what you do to your skin, your makeup will still look bad. This is what I mean. You need to match your foundation not only to your skin tone, but also to your skin texture and your need to hide skin damage.
For example, you have your transparent foundations, which are ideal for people who have practically perfect skin. Then you have semi-matte foundations for people who just want to tone down a few age marks or freckles that have scattered across their face.
So you have full coverage matte foundations. Opt for this type of foundation if you’re guilty of “caking on” your makeup to hide blemishes. Using a full coverage matte foundation allows you to apply a thin layer of makeup while still removing unwanted skin blemishes.
3. Take off your makeup completely
Once you’ve enjoyed a full day of successful blemish-concealing, now it’s time to remove your makeup completely. The easy way to know that your skin is completely clear and the makeup is really gone is that you should feel your skin breathing again. You can remove make-up, without stripping too much of the skin, using a cotton handkerchief and witch hazel. Saturate the square with witch hazel and smooth over your face. Once you’re done, the cotton square should no longer collect makeup. This cleansing step will also help prevent further skin blemishes.