The makeup industry is booming. Women are spending their hard-earned cash to buy products that will supposedly make them look more confident and beautiful.
The question is, does wearing makeup cause acne?
If you are wondering if wearing makeup causes acne, then the answer is no – but it could make your problem worse if you have certain types of skin or use certain types of makeup products that may irritate your acnes.
However, just to be clear, makeup is not the sole reason for acne. Acne can be caused by many different factors, and the makeup that you wear is just one of them.
It all depends on your skin type and what kind of makeup you are using. If you have oily skin, then wearing makeup will make your skin oilier and more prone to breakouts. If you have sensitive skin, then some types of makeup may irritate your skin and cause acne.
Also, there are many factors that contribute to acne, such as genetics, stress levels, hormones and diet. The answer is not clear cut because there are no scientific studies on this topic so far.
But there are some opinions based on anecdotal evidence and personal experience which may provide a clue as to what might be happening when you put on your favorite foundation or lipstick.
It may be that some of the ingredients in your favorite cosmetics are clogging your pores or triggering an inflammatory response in skin cells which can lead to breakouts and skin irritation.
Let’s find out.
What makeup ingredients cause acne?
Bioclarity.com listed most wanted criminals that are suspected to be the cause of triggering acne. Here are some:
Fragrances and dyes: although they make a product smell and look pleasant, fragrances and dyes include potent chemicals that might irritate sensitive or acne-prone skin.
These scents can irritate the skin and make allergies worse. They are especially hard on people with multiple allergies, eczema, or sensitive skin.
Alcohols: alcohol in makeup is intended to maximize the product’s absorption into the skin, giving you a long-lasting finish. However, this substance is exceedingly drying and can cause dehydration and discomfort.
Parabens: improve the shelf life of a product and prevent mold growth. Parabens can act like the hormone estrogen in the body and mess up the way hormone systems work. This can affect how the male and female reproductive systems work, how fertility develops, and how babies are born. Parabens can also stop the body from making hormones.
Silicone: are commonly included in foundations and concealers that are supposed to leave the skin feeling velvety smooth. Silicones make rough spots smooth and keep moisture in. Silicones don’t like water, which is why silicone-based products are hard to wash off and can clog pores.
6 Makeup Mistakes That Cause Acne
Using brushes that aren’t clean: To cut down on the acne-causing bacteria on your face, make sure to clean all of your brushes and applicators regularly.
Sharing makeup tools: When you use the same products and tools as someone else, you get their bacteria and oils on your skin, which can irritate it or cause breakouts. You’re also making it more likely that you’ll get an infection, which is worse and more dangerous than a pimple.
Putting on makeup with dirty hands: Some people prefer to use their hands instead of blotters and blenders, which can spread germs. Make sure you wash your hands every time so you don’t get dirt on your face and may lead to worsening acne problems.
Ignoring allergic reactions: The acne you got after using a certain product could have been caused by an allergy to one of the ingredients. Make sure to read labels and keep track of your flare-ups so you can figure out what might be causing them.
Putting on too much makeup: Some people cover up their acne with thick layers of foundation, which actually slows down the healing process and could cause more irritation.
Putting on makeup before bed: Never, ever go to sleep with a full face of makeup on. If you sleep in your makeup, it’s more likely to settle into your skin, which can lead to breakouts and bigger pores. Instead, don’t forget to wash your face every night before you go to sleep.
Read More:
Neck Acne Problems –– Ways to Prevent and Treat Them
Retinol Purge: Everything You Need to Know
Beyond Skin Deep: Laser Treatment for Back Acne Scars