You love your cosmetics!
They let you express your creativity and also look like a bombshell for your Instagram feed.
But have you ever noticed your skin doesn’t seem to love these products back as much as you do?
It could be that you’re sensitive or allergic to some of the ingredients in your products.
Don’t worry—it’s not uncommon and there are ways to figure out what’s causing the issue. Look for these signs that can help you determine if you’re sensitive or allergic to your beloved cosmetics.
Red, Itchy Skin
Does your skin burn hotter than a thousand suns after applying your favorite blush or foundation?
Do you find yourself scratching like you’ve been bitten by a swarm of mosquitoes after using a new eyeshadow palette?
These are signs of sensitivity or allergies! Your skin is reacting to certain ingredients in your cosmetics, causing it to become red, inflamed and unbearably itchy.
Irritated Eyes
It’s not uncommon for cosmetics to cause eye irritation.
Mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow can lead to redness, watery eyes, or even swelling.
If you look like you’ve been crying for hours after applying your eye makeup, it’s time to consider that you may be allergic or sensitive to something in those products.
Dryness and Peeling
Is your skin feeling drier than the Sahara desert?
Do certain areas of your face seem to peel no matter how much moisturizer you use?
Dryness could be a sign your cosmetics are causing irritation and drying out your skin. Certain ingredients, such as fragrance and alcohol, can strip the natural oils from your skin, resulting in dryness and peeling.
Breakouts
One pimple, two pimple, three pimple, four... It’s normal to get the occasional breakout.
However, if you notice a pattern of breakouts after using certain cosmetics, it could be a sign your skin is sensitive or allergic to something in your routine.
Ingredients like oils and silicones can clog pores and cause acne, even for those with non-sensitive skin.
Rashes or Hives
Does your skin look like it’s been attacked by a swarm of bees?
If you notice red, raised bumps on your skin after using cosmetics, it could be a sign of an allergic reaction. This is contact dermatitis, which occurs when the skin comes in direct contact with an allergen or irritant.
How To Determine What You’re Allergic To
If any of these signs sound familiar to you, it’s time to play detective and figure out which ingredients are causing the issue.
You can start by eliminating products one at a time and seeing if your symptoms improve. You can also visit an allergist for patch testing to determine exactly what you’re allergic to.
This process can help you avoid those ingredients in the future and have a happier relationship with your cosmetics
Don’t Give Up on Cosmetics!
Being sensitive or allergic to certain cosmetics doesn’t mean you have to give them up completely!
There are plenty of hypoallergenic and fragrance-free options available on the market today. It may take some trial and error, but with a little patience, you can find products that won’t cause you any discomfort or irritation.
So, don’t let your skin hold you back from expressing yourself through makeup!
With a little knowledge and some adjustments in your beauty routine, you can continue to rock your favorite looks without any negative side effects.