A couple of years ago the eczema on my face got so bad even putting on moisturiser hurt, which made me curious about what was causing the irritation. Depending on the severity of your eczema, you may need to keep your makeup routine minimal or take a break during flare-ups. “Ingredients like preservatives, fragrances and dyes can irritate eczema-prone skin,” says consultant dermatologist Dr Rakesh Anand. “They can also cause an allergic reaction that results in ‘contact eczema’.
If you think your makeup may be exacerbating your eczema, speak to your GP or dermatologist. An allergy patch test may be an option: “This can help you make more informed choices about which products work best for your skin,” Anand says.
Opt for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and alcohol-free makeup. Hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, or calming ones like cica, may also be helpful. Ilia, RMS and Westman Atelier are great choices that feel joyful to use. “I recommend trying new products on the crease of your arm for a few days to see if you have any reaction,” Anand says.
Finally, it’s worth thinking about how you remove your makeup. A gentle cleansing oil, balm or micellar water is ideal. “I also recommend reusable cotton bamboo pads. They’re gentle and sustainable,” adds Anand.
Got a beauty question for Anita? Email her at beautyQandA@theguardian.com
