8 Makeup and Beauty Tips for Women With Chronic Illnesses

There are many women from all walks of life who have serious, chronic health conditions like myself. We’d give anything to look healthy even when we are in pain. Unfortunately, many of us have to deal with a variety of issues such as “chipmunk cheeks” from steroid use, lupus, or cellulitis, just to name a few. I’ve had the cheek problem ever since I was on prednisone for many years. I didn’t like how I looked at all. With my round face, I looked like I had a beach ball for a head. I know there are others like myself who want to look “normal” so we’d feel better about ourselves and have the confidence we needed to face the world.

My friend from high school, Doreen, has been an Independent Beauty Consultant for 17 years. I contacted her a few months ago and told her about my dilemma. She offered to do a Zoom makeover with me to teach me how to contour my face so it would look elongated. She had her daughter demonstrate how to contour to achieve a natural look. Doreen then went over my color palette and offered to send me samples of blush, lipstick and eyeshadow to try. Once I received them, I’d Zoom with her and discuss which colors made me look healthier and brightened my face. Here are a few tips I’ve learned.

1. Choose a foundation you like that is suitable for your skin.

This will help even out the skin tone and protect it from the environment. Here are two examples of foundations that are easy to work with: CC Cream (color-correcting cream) and Mineral Powder.

2. A quick tip for the eyes.

Choose a light eyeshadow color, cream, or powder. Apply all over the eyelid up to the eyebrow. It makes the eyes appear more open and brightens the eye area.

3. Eyeliner and mascara can make your eyes and lashes pop.

 

4. Don’t forget the eyebrows.

If you’re not happy with the shape, seek out an expert to assist you to find the best one.

5. For the cheeks, adding a little color will add a glow.

The best tip is to choose a color that compliments your skin tone and looks natural.

6. If you want to elongate the shape of your face, learn how to contour your face.

It’s a little more advanced, but with a quick lesson and some practice, it can really add dimension. Face powder or a liquid foundation can be used to achieve this.

7. For the lips, you can choose a little or a lot of color.

The three types are: matte, shiny, or gloss. Choose a color that matches your natural lip color.

8. The final tip — look in the mirror and smile!

It’s a great pick-me-up when you aren’t feeling your best.

If you are not certain about colors or application, find someone you trust to assist you. Practice makes perfect. Keep working with your favorite colors to bring out your best features.

Even though we have to deal with the pain and discomfort our illness brings, at least we can do something to distract us from our daily challenges. The transformation can help put a smile on our faces and a “spring in our step.”