The best thing to do if you’re dealing with any kind of inflammatory skin issue is to avoid makeup. Makeup can cause irritation, it can prevent your skin from healing, no matter how “clean” it is, and clog pores. That being said, going makeup-free can be very difficult for some – myself included. I try to go makeup-free as much as I can, but on days I have a work meeting or social engagement, I will wear makeup.
Below is a list of face and lip makeup that I have found to be safe for me and the best makeup for perioral dermatitis. (I do not include eye makeup because I am able to wear any brand without irritation on my eyes. Also, if you’re dealing with perioral dermatitis, definitely check out my previous article “How I Cleared Up My Perioral Dermatitis In Two Weeks.” It dives into treating PD the natural way.)
Makeup that works…
Primer
When beginning your search for the best makeup for perioral dermatitis or sensitive skin, I suggest starting with primer first. Finding one that hydrates, soothes and protects the skin is key. I love the Dr. Barbara Sturm x Monika Blunder Anti-Aging Primer . It is almost more skincare than makeup. It contains antioxidants, hyaluronic acid and the line’s key ingredient, purslane, which protects skin against free-radical damage. There are no fillers, no silicones, nothing toxic.
I love it because it makes my makeup wear longer and it doesn’t clog my pores. It’s lightweight and after applied, and allowed to sit for a minute before applying foundation, the primer soothes my perioral dermatitis redness evening out my skin tone.
But temper your expectations with this primer. It’s not going to hide every imperfection like a silicone primer can. Instead it will treat the skin; it won’t blur it out.
Foundation
I’ve been using pretty religiously the Kjaer Weis Cream Foundation ever since I reviewed it months ago. It’s an organic cream foundation that blends seamlessly from light to medium coverage and feels weightless.
I recommend using a blender brush, like this one from Sephora to apply. The brand says you can apply with your fingers, but I have found using my fingers deposits too much product and can look muddy when done all over. If I use my fingers, it’s only to dab a concentrated amount under my eyes or cover a pimple, which this foundation does beautifully as well!
It also contains hydrating oils, like jojoba and sweet almond oil, that add a little extra moisture to my skin. And the ingredients are clean: no irritating fragrances, essential oils, or chemicals.
It’s pricey, but the bulk of the price is the gorgeous refillable case. After the first purchase, you can just buy the refills which are much cheaper.
Blush
For a softer feminine look, I will use the Sisley Phyto-Twist Blush in Petal with a light dusting of the Honest Beauty Illuminator in Dawn. The Sisley twist blushes have the smoothest texture! They go from cream to silky powder almost instantly, and it glides on without skipping.
For a brighter look, I love using the Kjaer Weis Cream Blush in Precious which is a very light coral color; great for Asian skin tones! And I’ll dust all over on top the Bare Minerals Pure Radiance highlighter, which gives a very subtle tan. (For some reason the Bare Minerals original foundation irritates my PD and causes almost immediate itching, but this highlighter does not.)
Both of these combos give a healthy glow without the muddy, over-bronzed look. I prefer natural and light and that’s what you’ll get with these!
Though, when I want a more mature mauve-y rose flush, I’ll reach for organic makeup brand Antonym’s Baked Blush in Rose. The powder is highly pigmented and just a light sweep is enough to give me sophisticated rose cheeks.
Lips
Since perioral dermatitis is around the mouth, it’s very important to be aware of the items you use in this area (i.e. toothpaste, lip balms, lipsticks, etc), which is one reason why, currently, I’m opting for organic lip products.
I loooooooove the Y et Beauté organic lipsticks. They’re on heavy rotation right now. The lipsticks are extremely pigmented and bright. But, for when I want a lighter look, I swipe on some clear lip balm, dab one of the Y et Beaute lipsticks at the center of my lips (usually, no. 21) and rub my lips together. This gives a sheer quality rather than deeply pigmented.
The Kjaer Weis Lip Tint in Passionate is also one of my favorites. It’s for the girl who wants a very subtle look. It will give the flush of a natural lip, just enhanced.
***And stay tuned for my #BondFaves Summer Giveaway Campaign!*** During the 12 weeks of summer, I’ll be hosting a giveaway series on the @bondenavant Instagram account giving away the above makeup items (multiples, too)! As well as some of my favorite skincare products. Be sure to stay up to date on Instagram, so you don’t miss out!***
Written & Photographed by Amy Chang, founder + editor