Makeup is supposed to make you feel pretty but when you're sick, makeup application seems pointless. When your nose runs, eyes water and your constantly sneezing, it's hard to look good. I don't know about you, but I get under eye circles and my nose swells so heading out in public barefaced isn't an option. I've got coworkers and customers to think about! When I battle seasonal allergies, or worse, the flu--I adjust my makeup routine to withstand tissue abuse and excessive mucus.
Intense facial moisturizer: When I'm sick but still have to work, (which is normal for me) I prep my skin for battle with an intense overnight moisturizer. Keeping my skin supple and slightly moist gives it a barrier that keeps redness and soreness to a minimum. The night before, I wash my face with a light cleanser, pat the skin dry and then apply the overnight cream. My face feels great, even after twenty tissue rubs. You'll keep your makeup on longer if your skin isn't dried out.
Face primer: The biggest makeup complaint I have is that it doesn't stick around when I sneeze, or rub my eyes. A good face primer application lets me snot and sneeze without losing my foundation. Of course, you can't avoid some makeup loss but face primer will hold it in place longer. Besides face primer, I also break out the lip and eye primer too. Triple makeup protection is better than a single protective barrier.
Neutral colors only: My lipstick goes first, so I take extra steps to keep my lips looking perfect. After the lip primer, I use a neutral lip liner to outline my lips. Then I color in the lines with the liner to give my lips a good base color.
No pinks or reds: When I'm sick, I don't wear pinks or reds. Instead, I use bronzer for blush and go natural and neutral for my lips. I also avoid bold colors on my eyes like blues or greens. (I already look green around the gills when I'm running a fever; I don't need to accentuate that.) Also, it's smart to wear waterproof eyeliner and mascara.
Skip powders: Don't wear finishing powder when you're sick. It's never going to stay on and when it does disappear, it's very noticeable.
These makeup tips work for me but I'll be honest. I can't wait to get home and take it all off at the end of the day. Moisturize as often as you can to avoid skin pain and drink plenty of fluids.
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