Although many people with seborrheic dermatitis opt to go makeup-free, others hunt for cosmetics they can wear without making their skin condition worse. It can be hard to come by skin care and makeup products — including concealer, foundation, blush, and bronzer — that don’t cause flare-ups on the hairline, neck, and face. Finding the right product for you may take some trial and error — and perhaps some advice from your dermatologist.

“I normally go natural, but I noticed wearing makeup or foundation seems to trigger my skin,” one member of MySebDermTeam commented. “Does anyone else have this problem?”

Below, we’ll discuss what to think about if you decide to try wearing makeup while living with seborrheic dermatitis — whether you’re looking for a bit of concealer or full-coverage glam.

Challenges of Wearing Makeup With Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis symptoms are different for each individual, but people commonly experience discolored skin, inflammation, flaky skin, dandruff, and greasy patches. These symptoms typically occur on the scalp, hair, face, and other oily parts of the body. You may want to conceal those skin symptoms, but using makeup can often lead to more harm than good.

Covering Flaky Skin

Flakiness is one of the most common symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, especially during flare-ups. However, certain makeup products sometimes make flakiness more noticeable and difficult to manage.

Concealing Discoloration

Seborrheic dermatitis discoloration can range from bright red on lighter skin tones to dark brown on darker skin tones. Many people use makeup to create an even skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation or discoloration. However, traditional concealers and foundations often don’t perfectly match skin tone, especially in people with skin conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, and eczema.

Being Sensitive to Ingredients

Individuals with seborrheic dermatitis often have heightened sensitivity to certain ingredients commonly found in makeup products. For example, fragrances, preservatives, and certain oils can make skin symptoms worse in the long run. The wrong conditions can even trigger secondary bacterial skin infections.

Selecting Makeup for Seborrheic Dermatitis

When choosing makeup products for seborrheic dermatitis-prone skin, it’s essential to opt for formulations that are gentle, noncomedogenic, and free from common irritants. Here are some guidelines to consider.

Hypoallergenic Formulas

Consider looking for makeup labeled “hypoallergenic.” These products, according to the companies that sell them, may be less likely to cause irritation or trigger flare-ups. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notes that this term doesn’t have a standardized definition.

Noncomedogenic Products

People with seborrheic dermatitis have about triple the rate of acne compared with the general population. A product that doesn’t clog pores can help prevent triggering both conditions. Makeup products labeled “noncomedogenic” are meant to prevent acne from forming. Again, this term isn’t regulated by the FDA, and noncomedogenic products may not affect everyone the same way.

Nonirritating Ingredients

Also check labels to find products that don’t contain potentially irritating ingredients. Look for makeup described as:

• Fragrance-free — Makeup (and any other skin care or hair care product) that contains fragrances can irritate sensitive skin and make seborrheic dermatitis symptoms worse.
• Alcohol-free — The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that people with seborrheic dermatitis avoid products with alcohol, including makeup and makeup remover, as well as moisturizer, sunscreen, and shampoo.
• Oil-free — Foundations and concealers labeled “oil-free” can prevent the greasiness often experienced in seborrheic dermatitis.

Testing Potential Products

Before using a new makeup product on your face, you can test it by applying it to the same small spot of skin twice a day for seven to 10 days. See how your skin reacts in the first few minutes and even up to several days later. If it doesn’t trigger irritation or a seborrheic dermatitis flare, the product is likely safe to use. However, even if a product doesn’t cause irritation the first time, sensitivity can develop over time.

Using Makeup With Seborrheic Dermatitis

Specific product recommendations may depend on the skin care regimen that you’ve created with your dermatologist, but here are some general guidelines for makeup products that may work well for individuals with seborrheic dermatitis. Remember to always discuss your makeup options with your doctor before trying anything new.

• Moisturizer — Keeping skin clean and moisturized can help protect against damage from makeup products. Applying makeup on dry or flaking skin may not produce desired effects. Tinted moisturizer might even replace your need for other makeup products.
• Primer — Consider applying primer before foundation to create a smoother skin barrier for makeup application.
• Foundation — Try a lightweight, oil-free liquid foundation with buildable coverage to conceal discoloration and hyperpigmentation without clogging pores. Look for foundation with SPF to prevent harmful UV radiation, or choose an additional sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for extra sun protection.
• Concealer — Creamy, hydrating concealers may be able to cover blemishes and discoloration without calling attention to flakiness.
• Powder — Translucent or mineral-based powders, including blush, bronzer, and highlighter, can help set makeup and control shine without making dryness or irritation worse. Products free of shimmer can provide natural, color-correcting effects without causing irritation.
• Makeup remover — Make sure to take off your makeup before going to sleep. Use a gentle, natural makeup remover to avoid further irritation, such as a mild soap, micellar water, or a light cleanser.

The fewer products you use, the less the chance of worsening your seborrheic dermatitis symptoms. Stick to a few products that are tried-and-true for you, and apply them with clean hands and a sanitized brush or blender.

Shopping for Skin Care Products

You have lots of shopping options for skin care products. If you prefer to shop online, be sure to read the reviews and buy products that are returnable if they don’t work for your skin, such as on Amazon. If you favor in-person visits to a store like Sephora or Ulta Beauty, you may want to consult with a makeup artist to help you find products that will work best for your specific skin tone and texture. Remember to let them know that you have seborrheic dermatitis, and tell them about any requirements or limitations from your dermatologist.

Going Makeup-Free

After your makeup product search, you may decide that makeup is not for you and only worsens your symptoms. One member shared, “I have not worn makeup in years. What I find is when I put anything on my face, it itches and causes discomfort. I have learned to live without makeup.”

Another member said, “Tried to wear makeup on a peeling face … not such a good look!”

No matter your decision regarding wearing makeup, you deserve to feel confident in your own skin. Speak with your dermatologist if you have any concerns about your topical medications, skin care routine, or makeup products.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On MySebDermTeam, the social network for people with seborrheic dermatitis and their loved ones, more than 11,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with seborrheic dermatitis.

Do you have seborrheic dermatitis and wear makeup? What products would you recommend to others? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.