MAKEUP MADE HER SKIN RED

Dear Jellybean,

I started wearing foundation about a year ago, even though I had perfect skin because I thougt it was fun. but sice then, my skin has become really bad. and now I have to wear it to look pretty. I have hardly any zits, but I have red around my nose and really dark circles and red bumps on my cheeks. is there any way to get rid of these things? I would really love to not have to wear foundation. if I didn't have dark circles and the red everywhere, I would be perfecly happy with my face. Thanks so much!
-Mia

Dear Mia,

It's possible that you could be having an allergy to your foundation. If you've found that your skin is reacting to some skin products and showing signs of irritation or redness, you probably have sensitive skin. Stop using your current makeup and return to the drugstore for some new products. Choose a foundation (and moisturizers, sunscreen, and other makeup too) that are "hypo-allergenic" and "fragrance-free" (it will say so on the label). Ask the cosmetics counter lady for some help finding this stuff, if needed.

Some other tips on caring for your sensitive skin:

Try to minimise the amount of products you put on your face. The more makeup you use, the more chance your skin could have a reaction.

Don't overwash your face. Cleanse twice a day max, using a mild, soap-free cleansing product for "sensitive skin."

Don't use exfoliants or scrubs on your face, which may be irritating and cause redness. If you need to exfoliate, use a gentle toner instead.

If you have to treat zits or greasy skin, use an astringent on oily areas only. Discontinue use if redness occurs.

Be sure to use sunscreen on your face every day, with a minimum SPF of 15. Sensitive skin is more likely to react when makeup

and sunlight combine.