It’s kind of a vicious cycle, and a lot of people misinterpret my insecurity as aloofness.Reading what I just wrote literally depresses me, so it’s definitely time to take the pledge and break up with my makeup. Now, I’m not saying I’m going to roll out of bed looking like death for work (don’t nobody wanna see dat), but I’d like to rid myself of the “no makeup = ugly = embarrassing = no social interaction” equation. The first step involves tackling–not simply concealing— my Rosacea, an inflammatory skin condition which apparently affects 16 million Americans (women more than men– go figure). Persistent redness is often the first and most noticeable indication of the condition, and fun little dilated facial blood vessels increasing blood flow to the skin are the culprits.

The good news is that apparently I’m not alone in my damage control makeup motif, which is just as frustrating as it is expensive. Over 4 in 5, or 82% to be exact, Rosacea sufferers like moi have used cosmetics to cover up their embarrassing redness. Luckily, Mirvaso® (Brimonidine for you fancy pants medical people) Topical Gel, 0.33%, from the fabulous Galderma Laboratories, L.P., is the first and only gel specifically developed and proven to reduce persistent facial redness of Rosacea. Its impressive results have been reviewed by the FDA for safety and efficacy (so you know it’s legit), and depending on your insurance, prescription co-pays may be as low as $25 per fill.

Mirvaso® is basically a dermatological lifeline, as it’s easy to use, provides quick results, and lasts for up to 12 hours, and I am finally to a point where I feel confident and comfortable parting ways with my high intensity concealer. Plus, they make sunglasses and baseball hats for under-eye circles. I’m happy to report that the combination of Mirvaso® and the gorgeous Florida summer weather, including our budding seasonal flowers and the need for sunglasses, makes me completely unaware of my Rosacea and has me smiling makeup-less from ear to ear… for the first time in like forever.

 

Oh ya, and don’t forget to enter the Break Up with Your Makeup Sweepstakes for a chance to win a trip to the Emmys! Click the link or use the widget below to enter. Make a pledge to protect your skin and potentially take the trip of a lifetime. If you win, pleeeeease take me with you! I hope I’ve convinced some of you fellow redness-ridden beauties out there to break up with your makeup, as well, and do something about your facial Erythema or Rosacea. It ain’t no big thing, and if I can take confident makeup-less selfies, so can you!