Eczema is an increasingly common skin condition; according to the National Eczema Association, approximately two-to-10 percent of adults are affected worldwide. Still, that doesn’t make managing flare-ups any easier, especially when it comes to makeup. Dryness and texture are already common challenges, but eczema can make them even more pronounced. Worse, makeup often clings to these areas, drawing unwanted attention.
Instead of skipping your routine altogether, experts say a less-is-more approach can make all the difference. Below, we asked three professionals, including board-certified dermatologists and makeup artists, for their best advice on applying makeup on eczema-prone skin.
Featured Experts
- Kally Papantoniou, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York
- Vittorio Masecchia is a celebrity makeup artist
- Rupert Kingston is a professional makeup artist and the co-founder of Delilah Cosmetics
What to Consider When Wearing Makeup With Eczema
Eczema disrupts the skin barrier, creating several challenges for makeup application. “The skin is often dry, flaky and sensitive. When you apply makeup to these areas, you run the risk of it clinging to rough patches, emphasizing texture. It can also cause further irritation, redness and inflammation that can make coverage difficult,” says Melville, FL dermatologist Kally Papantoniou, MD.
Because eczema can change from day to day, celebrity makeup artist Vittorio Masecchia says the key is finding balance between coverage and comfort. “Texture and sensitivity should be prioritized—after all, the overall goal is to allow the skin to function and heal while still looking refined and polished,” he explains.
Choosing the right products and techniques is equally important for avoiding flare-ups. “Fragrance, alcohol, preservatives and blending techniques can all trigger irritation,” adds makeup artist and co-founder of Delilah Cosmetics, Rupert Kingston.
How to Prep Skin for Makeup
Like other sensitive skin types, eczema requires gentle ingredients and thoughtful product choices—starting with your skin-care routine. “A light cleanser followed by a nourishing moisturizer will help create a smooth, hydrated base,” says Dr. Papantoniou. It goes without saying that actives and harsh exfoliants should be avoided during a flare-up. Instead, look for products with calming ingredients that help soothe and protect the skin.
Once the skin has been thoroughly cleansed and hydrated, the focus shifts to barrier protection. “A thin layer of a soothing balm or barrier cream can also help prevent makeup from settling into dry spots,” says Dr. Papantoniou. While barrier creams are typically rich, that texture can feel too heavy for eczema-prone skin. As Kingston explains, emollient formulas—rather than thick occlusives—are ideal for providing hydration and barrier support. “They also allow for quicker absorption before applying makeup,” he says.
How to Apply Makeup With Eczema
Lightweight makeup products and cream formulas are your best bet. “Creamier textures move better with the skin and allow you to work in layers, building rather than covering,” says Masecchia. Using sheer layers over problem areas, like dry patches, helps avoid drawing attention to them. Liquid formulas offer a similar benefit. “These can be applied sparingly to build coverage where needed,” says Kingston. While powders don’t have to be completely avoided, illuminating rather than mattifying formulas should be used sparingly.
When a flare-up occurs, the last thing you want to do is exacerbate the issue with heavy makeup. In these moments, Masecchia notes it’s better to aim for tonal balance rather than full coverage. “Real skin with some texture always looks healthier than trying to erase it.” The experts agree that using light pressure when applying makeup is ideal. “Instead of buffing or rubbing, lightly tap or press the products into the skin with your fingers to avoid friction,” says Kingston. The final look should be as skin-like as possible, focusing on the natural radiance of healthy skin.
Products to Try for Eczema-Prone Skin
