Rashes are a common symptom of psoriasis, acne rosacea and eczema. Eczema, in particular, is characterized by flaky and dry skin all over the arms, face and legs. Sometimes, people with lupus disease could also suffer from ‘butterfly’ red rashes on the face and bridge of the nose. These rashes can be very uncomfortable and can harm one’s self esteem. So in this guide, we will be considering some of the best products to cover up eczema and psoriasis rashes on arms and legs with or without makeup.
1. Talk to a specialist
Different people react differently to eczema and psoriasis; no two people with these skin issues have the same symptoms. So it is best to see a dermatologist to assess your condition. The specialist will perform detailed analysis to find out the exact cause of your skin condition. S/he will then suggest a treatment to not only eradicate the rashes but also prescribe specialized treatments to help you cover up blemishes, scars and redness.
2. Concealers and foundations
Just as you use makeup to cover up pimples and acne, you can also use best quality makeup products to cover up redness and rashes caused by psoriasis and eczema. Brands like Coverblend®, Dermablend® and Covermark® have a good line of concealers and foundations to help hide rashes caused by acne rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, and Lupus. In fact, many people also use these top makeup products to hide unsightly birthmarks. Dermablend makes the best primer for psoriasis and eczema. If you have darker and more severe patches on the face, arms or legs, you will need pancake foundation or you could go in for liquid/semi liquid products that you set with a powder.
3. Steps for using camouflage makeup for eczema and psoriasis
- Prepare the skin by gently washing it with warm water.
- Dry the skin by patting it with a soft cloth or towel. Do not rub vigorously.
- Now apply a light layer of moisturizer on the skin. Make sure the product you use is fragrance free and devoid of parabens, preservatives or artificial colors.
- Choose the best primer for psoriasis and/or eczema. Dermablend is a great brand as it makes primer for sensitive skin.
- Do not use brushes or sponges when applying the makeup. They get dirty and are full of bacteria. Instead, use your clean finger tips to camouflage the rash with makeup.
- Take a small amount of primer and dab it gently on the skin using your fingers. Follow this up with concealer.
- In case your skin is very dry and flaky, avoid the use of powder foundation. Instead, go in for liquid foundation.
- When using makeup to cover up eczema rash on face, you can dab on a little blush to add a natural glow. You can also use a gentle bronzer or tinted moisturizer for a healthy, sun kissed glow.
- For psoriasis or acne rosacea rash on face, do not use any blush as it will make your rash more prominent.
- If you suffer from dry flaky eczema rash on the face, you might want to accentuate your eyes, lips and brows to take attention away from these problem areas.
- When using camouflage makeup to hide rashes on the knees or elbows, bend the joints a bit when applying.
4. Use corticosteroid cream
Corticosteroid creams like 1% hydrocortisone can be used to stop itchiness and rashes caused by eczema. These creams will not cover up the rash but they will help stop the itch that worsens the rashes. Apply a thin layer of the cream on the skin and cover it with bandage. This eczema treatment is beneficial in preventing secondary infections that sometimes occur after scratching the rash.
5. Jackets and long-sleeved shirts and tops
Eczema on arms and psoriasis on elbows can get very itchy and also look less attractive. You can cover up the rash with jackets or long sleeve tops but that only works when the weather is cold. In the summer, you can use makeup that camouflages the psoriasis. Wearing a jacket or long sleeve shirt will also prevent itching and help you avoid secondary skin infections.
6. Coffee and coconut oil
Use this simple remedy to prevent dry skin on arms, elbows and legs. Make a mixture of coffee grounds with melted coconut oil. Apply this scrub all over the itchy skin and cover up with a plastic wrap. After half an hour, remove the wrap and wash off the skin with warm water. Do not use soap. Your skin will be coated with a light layer of oil which will prevent itching and impart a smoother look to otherwise dry skin.
7. Exfoliate gently, once a week
Try a mild salicylic acid based cleanser to remove the dry, flaky skin. This eczema treatment helps reveal younger looking skin underneath.
8. Always moisturize
You must always keep your skin soft and supple by moisturizing it. Cover up the rash on the arm with a thin layer of gentle moisturizer. Your dermatologist can recommend the right product based on your skin type. Moisturize immediately after showering to lock and seal in the moisture.
9. Make lifestyle changes
Psoriasis and eczema rashes have the tendency to show up in any place on the body. It is best to avoid long, hot showers as water actually exacerbates the rash. So do not stay for too long in the bath. Speak to your doctor about coal tar washes for removing the flaky appearance, especially on hands and legs. Note that in case of lupus rashes, simply cleansing with water can actually reduce the redness. So use gentle cleanser that suits your skin.
10. Make dietary changes
Follow a healthy diet comprising of skin-friendly foods. Speak to an expert nutritionist to guide you in selecting foods right for eczema or psoriasis sufferers. Sometimes, limiting dairy, gluten and meat can make a difference. Work with a specialist to get rid of eczema for good.