If you have sensitive skin, it may feel daunting to find makeup that not only looks good, but feels good for your skin. Fortunately, more and more cosmetic lines are offering products that are both gentle on skin and easy on the environment. Read on to learn about eco-friendly makeup that’s safe for even the most sensitive skin.
Anyone who has sensitive skin knows how frustrating it can be to try a new product and break out the next day or develop a rash a few days later. Plus, the long lists of chemical ingredients on makeup packaging can be enough to make you shy away from new formulas. And rightly so; the more ingredients a product contains, the more likely it will irritate skin.
Thankfully, some companies are now committed to creating formulas that skip the use of preservatives and other additives, resulting in products that are gentler on skin. These products tend to contain fewer ingredients – including the chemical preservatives and fragrances that are often the culprits of skin irritation. In addition, National Geographic points out that products produced with organic and natural ingredients are often less harmful to the Earth.
Take the time to create a collection of cosmetics that are ideal for your sensitive skin. Keep reading to learn about our favorite eco-friendly formulas. Keep in mind, however, that just because an ingredient is organic or a product is “all-natural” doesn’t mean it’s safe for all skin types. Always perform a patch test whenever testing a new product.
Skin
Foundation. Foundation is the base for all your makeup, so it’s a great place to start making a transition to green products. If you have sensitive skin and prefer liquid makeup, choose a silicone-based formula that’s less likely to cause irritation.
Tarte Smooth Operator SPF 20 Foundation is silicone-based and ideal for those with aging, acne-prone or sensitive skin. Tarte is well known for using ingredients free of petrochemicals, parabens, synthetic fragrances and other harmful ingredients. Plus, Tarte manufactures products especially for sensitive skin, which makes this product virtually perfect for those with delicate skin concerns.
Concealer. Sensitive and acne-prone skin can be especially reactive to concealer, as it can sometimes clog pores. Look for products that are “non-comedogenic,” which are less likely to cause acne and irritation due to plugged pores.
Powder. Powder, especially a mineral-based formula, is a great alternative to liquid foundations and also works to set makeup and prevent oily skin. In fact, WebMD explains that, unlike other face makeup, mineral powders don’t contain the preservatives, parabens, mineral oils, dyes and fragrances that commonly cause irritation.
Jurlique’s Rose Silk Finishing Powder is translucent, lightweight and less likely to cause unwanted irritation. Formulated with arnica, this Earth-friendly face powder also soothes skin and calms redness.
Eyes
Primer. Priming your eyelids can prevent irritating eye shadow residue, while also helping to prolong the staying power of your eye shadow.
Eye shadow. Organic eye shadows are more affordable than ever, boast impressive lasting power and – most importantly – are made with the highest quality ingredients. According to the Daily Glow, organic and cream-based shadows are less likely to cause irritation on the delicate skin above the eyes.
Eyeliner. Eyeliner often comes in contact with the mucous membrane that covers your eye, which means the product’s ingredients are easily absorbed. If your eyes are particularly sensitive, stick to black, organic eyeliners, which tend to contain fewer potential irritants than other shades.
Mascara. Mascara, like eyeliner, gets very close to your eyes and can cause a reaction. Using products that are derived from natural ingredients may reduce your odds of experiencing irritation.
Cheeks
Blush. It’s not always easy to find a blush that looks natural and is gentle on sensitive skin. Look for mineral-based products that are free of the preservatives and chemicals that trigger irritation.
Bronzer. Having trouble finding a bronzer that won’t look clog pores or look streaky? Mineral-based bronzers are both eco-friendly and create authentic sun-kissed color without compromising the health and appearance of skin.
bareMinerals READY Bronzer contains only the mineral ingredients absolutely necessary to make a great product. That means no extra fragrance, parabens, talc, dyes or irritants. Plus, this product comes in three shades that look great on every skin tone.
Lips
Lipstick. You may not think of your lips as sensitive, but product ingredients can migrate from the lips to the skin around the mouth and trigger irritation and breakouts. The solution? Lip formulas with mild ingredients that hydrate lips without causing skin reactions.
Lip balm. According the beauty blog The Daily Glow, those with easily irritated lips should avoid artificial ingredients, dyes and preservatives. Instead, look for products with natural moisturizers like shea butter, cocoa butter or coconut oil.
Suki Luscious Lips Berry Cream Trio is a conditioning, cream-based lip balm that leaves behind a subtle shimmer. Featuring all-natural ingredients including jojoba and chamomile, this daily lip balm nourishes and hydrates without causing unwanted irritation.
Healthy skin, healthy environment
If you have sensitive skin, treat yourself right by taking preventative measures against irritation. When it comes to cosmetics, avoid breakouts and other sensitive skin concerns by throwing away your makeup when it expires or when you notice a change in the product’s quality. And take advantage of the options available for eco-friendly makeup that will improve your skin without leaving a damaging carbon footprint. Try out the products above for great makeup that won’t harm the environment or your skin!
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See also:
8 DIY Spa Treatments for Sensitive Skin
Sensitive Skin: 5 Ingredients to Embrace
Back to the Basics: A Daily Regimen for Sensitive Skin