BEAUTY Cosmetic solutions for skin flaws

Cosmetic solutions for skin flaws


Beauty
Maggie Gibbons

No matter what age you are chances are you’ve experienced skin flaws at some point in your life. I can almost guarantee you have something to complain about when it comes to skin, it may be large pores, blackheads, rosacea or skin discolouration. No matter what skin issue you have there is a cosmetic solution. If, however, the condition persists you should see a doctor for a precise diagnosis and treatment.

Pores
Have you large pores on your chin, nose or cheeks? These nuisances, which started out as blackheads, can morph into large pores as a result of clogged make up and less than thorough cleansing. My solution to this problem is to apply a good primer which fills in the pores (think polyfilla for the face) and provides a beautiful smooth base for your foundation. Follow with a matte-finish foundation for skin with large pores.
No 7 Airbrush Away Primer (€25.25) claims results can be seen in just ten minutes and last for up to eight hours. Apply before foundation.
Rimmel Fix & Perfect Perfect Pro Primer (€8.25) helps smooth out your skintone, while blurring those pores.
NYX has arrived here in Ireland. This global brand is loved by celebrities and makeup artists alike, and no wonder: The products are both affordable and great quality. NYX Shine Killer (€15.99) gives a fresh matte look that lasts for hours.

Birthmarks, tattoos
You won’t beat Vichy’s Dermablend for skin discolouration. I saw the Corrective Stick (€16.95) being demonstrated recently and can vouch for the fact that it works on anything from eye bags, dark circles and pigmentation disorders to acne and even tattoos and vitiligo. Another benefit is that it has an SPF 30 for high-level protection. It is applied easily with fingers or directly onto the skin, depending on the particular skin flaw. The range has recently had a makeover with new packaging and new products.
Dermablend Corrective Fluid Foundation (face, €21.50), Dermablend Total Body Corrective Foundation (Body, €29.95) and Dermablend Compact Cream Foundation (Face, €24.95) are all available at chemists nationwide.
For minor imperfections, Max Factor (€10.99) has raised the bar again with Colour Corrector CC Sticks which neutralize everyday problems like dark spots, sallowness, redness and under-eye circles. There are five different sticks which tackle just about any dilemma. They are easy to blend and a good price.

Milia
Milia are those small, hard, white bumps that show up mostly on the face. Getting rid of them can be tough. Whether you opt for an over the counter cleanser or a prescribed wash from your dermatologist, you’ll want a cleanser mild enough to use daily. The best facial wash will include an exfoliant of some sort to remove and dislodge embedded dead skin cells and oil.
Irish Company Green Angel has a Seaweed, Aloe and Avocado Face Mask (€19) that is deep-cleansing. It combines seaweed extracts with a high concentration of nutrients and vitamins as well as high-quality extracts of aloe vera and avocado. Once you use the mask, you really do notice a difference to your skin. It will be re-energized and have a sensation of radiance and vitality. This mask is perfect for a weekly deep cleanse to leave your skin feeling invigorated and looking fresh.

Rosacea
This presents itself in a couple of ways, redness in the cheeks due to dilated blood vessels, and possibly raised bumps also. Use products with anti-inflammatory properties. There is no actual cure, but you can prevent it from worsening. One of my favourites is Avene Antirougeurs Jour Redness-Relief Moisturizing Protecting Emulsion (€22), which is specifically for rosacea-prone skin. Available from selected chemists nationwide or avene.ie.
Avene’s XeraCalm will soothe itching skin and even treat eczema prone skin.

Maggie Gibbons is an Image/Style Consultant based in Louisburgh. She can be contacted at living@mayonews.ie.