I have acne breakouts! Should I still use makeup?

Yes, wearing makeup can cause acne, however not all cosmetics are responsible for this dilemma.

We understand your confusion if you’ve heard contradictory comments regarding whether cosmetics cause acne or not. Why do you think there are so many opinions? Continue reading and let’s talk about the complicated link between makeup and acne and explain how one can cause the other.

Makeup is a means for many individuals who battle with acne to reduce the visual effect of breakouts and feel more confident even while they are experiencing outbreaks. And, it is so heartbreaking to know that their supposed to be savior causes their problem. 

Good to know not all makeup products is the sole reason for your breakouts.

 Acne may be made much worse if you don’t pay attention to what you put on your skin, so read labels carefully. 

However, it’s important to remember that your makeup routine is simply one of many potential causes of breakouts.

What is acne?

Yes, wearing makeup can cause acne

Acne is a multi-stage condition that develops in the oil glands of the hair follicles, also known as “pores”. The process begins when dead skin cells accumulate on the pore’s outer surface, blocking the duct that transports oil and dirt out of the pore.

The bottom line — acne comes in many different forms, but what causes it is a hair follicle that is clogged.

Acne problems usually start and get worse during adolescence, then get better as a person gets older. But acne is very different from person to person in how bad it is and how long it lasts.

How does makeup cause acne breakouts?

As I said previously, a makeup routine is simply one of many potential causes of breakouts, but not the sole reason. 

Among the results of a recent study, linking the relationship of cosmetic makeup and acne breakouts. 38.1% of patients who failed treatment said that the continued use of cosmetics worsened their acne, which was significantly greater than the 26.3% of treatment-naive individuals polled.

A specific kind of acne, Acne cosmetica, is associated with outbreaks caused by the use of cosmetics. This form of acne frequently develops clusters of tiny pimples in areas where makeup is applied. Acne cosmetica develops when cosmetics either contribute to blocked pores or worsen skin irritation during an acne outbreak.

How to pick the best makeup for avoiding acne?

Not all cosmetics cause acne, but the incorrect cosmetics surely may. Unfortunately, no consensus exists about “safe” cosmetics.

Makeup companies vary greatly in terms of quality and ingredients, but applying the incorrect product  will undoubtedly exacerbate outbreaks.

Acne-prone skin should also avoid cosmetics containing myristyl myristate, laureth-4, isopropyl myristate, silicones, and sodium lauryl sulfate, in addition to seeking non-comedogenic cosmetics and skincare products. These substances may cause irritation and needless inflammation. If these substances are included in your cosmetics, you may wish to consider alternatives.

Choose non-comedogenic, fragrance-free sheer or light coverage kinds that clearly claim to be non-comedogenic. Large, drugstore brands designed for a younger, more acne-prone clientele are often safer and less costly than department store ones.

As long as mineral makeup does not produce itching, which is a sign of irritation and can lead to scratching, it should be safe to wear.

What common bad habits should I avoid?

#1 Using the wrong foundation: Dermatologists recommend using foundations that say “non-comedogenic,” “hypoallergenic,” or “mineral-based” to keep skin from getting irritated or pores from getting clogged.

Using the wrong foundation

#2 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. This includes the correct way in storing your makeup tools. Makeup bags are dirty places, and putting your brushes in them can cause serious contamination, making the brushes you just cleaned look dirty again. If you can, separate your tools and store them upside down.

Using brushes that aren't clean

#3 Make sure you start your makeup routine with a clean face.  You should always start your makeup routine with a clean face. When you put makeup on a face that isn’t clean, it traps dirt and bacteria, which can lead to an outbreak.

Make sure you start your makeup routine with a clean face

#4 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.

Putting on makeup with dirty hands

#5 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.

Ignoring allergic reactions

#6 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.

Putting on makeup before bed

Read more:
Whiteheads on the Nose: Answers to Your Whys and How’s
Derma Fillers for Acne Scars: Getting To Know 101
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