The Best Makeup for Blotchy Skin

While you typically think about applying flesh-toned makeup to your flesh-toned face, tinted primers in unusual colors — like green — can help to minimize the blotchy redness your skin is experiencing. Primers are designed to be applied after skin-care applications — such as moisturizer — and before you put on your makeup. Primers are makeup enhancers. They are typically made from a lightweight ingredient, such as dimethicone, that gives a primer a slippery texture when you rub it between your fingertips. You also may see primers called "base" or "foundation base" at your drugstore or makeup aisle. Using a green-tinted primer can be the best base for minimizing blotchy redness. The green tone neutralizes the red to reveal a more natural-looking brown skin tone. Primers also are the best idea for blotchy skin because they help bind your makeup to your face, enhancing how long it lasts.

The amount of pigment in a foundation or any color makeup application determines the level of coverage it provides. For blotchy skin, look for makeup products that are highly pigmented to make minimizing a blotchy skin tone easier. These makeup products may be advertised as “skin tone correctors” or “full-coverage.” Apply using a sponge or clean fingertips to problem areas and blend to even your skin tone.

If you still have any pesky blotchy spots remaining, a concealer can be your final step in camouflaging blotchy skin. Concealers are thicker and more opaque formulations that can really cover red spots. While you may use a lighter shade under your eyes, the best concealer for blotchiness should match your skin tone exactly. Pat on with clean fingers or apply using a concealer brush for an even application.

Often blotchy skin is the result of makeup and skin-care products that are irritating your skin and you don’t even know it. In this instance, the best makeup for you should be hypoallergenic, meaning it does not contain fragrances and makeup products known to irritate your skin. You also may wish to avoid certain ingredients in your makeup, such as parabens, fragrances and artificial coloring. Also, don’t let the term “unscented” fool you — sometimes scents are added to cover up a product’s scent in an attempt to fool your nose.