‘I’m a Dermatologist and These Are the Only Foundations You Should Use if You Have Psoriasis’

Choosing to apply foundation over psoriasis is a personal choice, but if it’s something you’ve tried on your own psoriatic skin, you’re likely familiar with the challenges it presents. With the wrong product, there’s ample opportunity for dryness, irritation, and all-around discomfort. Luckily, Annie Gonzalez, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami is here to share what you need to know about the best foundations for psoriasis.

“Applying foundation to skin with active psoriasis can be challenging,” says Dr. Gonzalez. “Plaque psoriasis has scales that can be uncomfortable and easily irritated. The last thing you want to do is to make the psoriasis look or feel drier… which can happen if you apply it incorrectly.”

When putting foundation on top of psoriasis, Dr. Gonzalez suggests applying as little makeup as possible. To do this, start with a light layer of buildable foundation, then add more in small increments so you don’t overdo it. Plus, you should avoid applying makeup to any open lesions or scars.

“For covering up psoriasis, choose liquid-based cosmetics rather than powder-based ones, which can be drying and accentuate skin flaking,” she says. “Also, look for fragrance-free products, which are less likely to irritate your skin. She adds that you might want to avoid foundation with pink undertones as those can accentuate any redness the psoriasis is causing.

Below, shop five of the best foundations for psoriasis.

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation — $43.00

Shirley Chi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Southern California, is a huge fan of this product for psoriatic skin. She says it’s great for long-lasting coverage, and is designed to stay in place for up to 24 hours.

MAC Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 Foundation — $35.00

“For heavier coverage, I like Fix Fluid from MAC,” says Dr. Gonzalez. “Red areas are hard to cover while still looking natural. This foundation does a great job with that. It’s the closest to an oil-free foundation that MAC makes, and it helps to control oil skin while providing a matte finish. It sinks into the skin nicely with buildable coverage.”

Jane Iredale Glow Time Full Coverage Mineral BB Cream — $50.00

Dr. Chi also loves Jane Iredale products for those with psoriasis. This BB Cream was designed with sensitive skin in mind, and is formulated with soothing aloe and hydrating sunflower seed oil to keep skin calm, nourished, and irritation-free.

Tower 28 Beauty SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Foundation — $30.00

This tinted sunscreen is the only complexion product to have the “seal of acceptance” from the National Eczema Association, meaning it’s free of common irritants. Though eczema and psoriasis are different conditions, the ingredients precautions one needs to take with each are similar, which makes this a great pick for those with psoriasis.

Dermablend Flawless Creator Multi-Use Liquid Foundation — $44.00

This derm-developed product is a great lightweight, buildable foundation that has been tested on sensitive skin. One drop goes a long way, allowing you to get the most out of the formula.

Learn more about caring for psoriasis:

Oh hi! You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cutting-edge wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content. Sign up for Well+, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly.