It’s possible to become allergic to anything these days, including makeup. As advanced as makeup formulas are, many mainstream brands and products contain ingredients that can be harmful if an allergic reaction occurs. To avoid allergic contact dermatitis or irritant contact dermatitis from makeup products, you’ll need to seek other alternatives to looking pretty that won’t cause rashes or other uncomfortable skin conditions. Luckily, such makeup products do exist.

How is it possible to be allergic to makeup? With the loads of ingredients used in makeup items, it is very easy for any one of those ingredients in particular to disagree with your skin. Most symptoms of allergic contact dermatitis or irritant contact dermatitis include rashes, patches of itchy, scaly skin, blisters or skin discoloration. Allergic contact dermatitis happens when the body’s immune system reacts against a specific substance, while irritant contact dermatitis involves direct skin damage as a result of the skin coming into contact with a harsh substance.

For those who have such allergies, it’s important to visit a dermatologist who can help rule out the ingredient or substances your skin is reacting to. This will help you know what to avoid in these products in the future. Patch tests are also a must anytime you want to try a new product.

So you’re allergic to traditional makeup…now what? The easiest solution to this problem is to simply not wear makeup. Of course for many women this isn’t an option. If you’re not able to live without lipstick, foundation, powder or blush, then look into mineral makeup. Hailed for its use of natural and organic ingredients, mineral makeup has become a popular option for those with sensitive, problematic skin types or those allergic to regular makeup.

Mineral makeup contains ingredients that are the most unlikely to cause allergic reactions. The most common ingredients you’ll find on the labels of mineral makeup are iron oxide, mica, natural sun block, inorganic dyes, zinc oxide and titanium oxide. The reason mineral makeup tends to work well with sensitive skin is due to its use of finely granulated powder formulas. Traditional liquid and cream makeup formulas often contain ingredients that cause allergic reactions because they are absorbed deep into the skin and pores. With mineral makeup’s powder formulations, the makeup isn’t absorbed into the skin as easily. Many mineral makeup products like foundation and blush are very lightweight and don’t create a cakey appearance.

You can purchase mineral makeup at any store, makeup counter or online retailer. To be on the safe side, talk to a salesperson and ask any questions you may have about their products. Be sure to do a patch test for mineral makeup items as well. In very rare cases, there are individuals who are even allergic to mineral makeup. In this case, going without makeup is the best solution.

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