Makeup Bag

Living with acne every day is definitely not an easy task!  Most of the time, when you get up in the morning, the first thing you do before you leave home is put on your makeup.  You wouldn’t dare go out in public without covering your pimples!

The first step is concealer, then a heavy foundation to cover up the redness and blemishes, next is a powder to keep it all in place.

If this sounds like you, this vicious routine could actually be making your acne worse.  You get blemishes, cover them up with makeup, and it causes more blemishes.  Plus all of these makeup steps takes up WAY too much time!

Acne that is caused or aggravated by cosmetics is called Acne Cometica, a name invented by dermatologists. According to Livestrong, this type of acne can appear on your cheeks or forehead. It usually shows up as small itchy bumps, almost like a rash.

It’s not just cosmetics that can cause it. It can even be caused by hair products you might use, such as gels, conditioners, or shampoos.  When your hair falls in your face, these hair products you use can clog your pores and bring about acne cosmetica.

You might be asking “Now that I know what it is, what do I need to do to get rid of it”?

Here are a few great changes you can make daily in your skincare and makeup routine to help you avoid or get rid of this frustrating condition.

Always check your ingredients

You need to make sure you always know the ingredients for products you’re using.  There are lists of comedogenic ingredients you can use to check your products.  This list is just a guideline.

There is absolutely no way to know every ingredient that can cause acne breakouts. Also, everyone’s skin is different.  An ingredient that doesn’t irritate someone else’s skin, may be a serious problem for yours.

Try mineral makeup

According to Cosmopolitan, mineral makeup is great for sensitive skin and can help by reducing the redness and inflammation caused by acne.  It has less ingredients than other makeup, so it’s healthier alternative for your skin.

It’s also much lighter, which allows your skin to breathe.  Many women even say it feels like they’re not wearing anything at all.  Ingredients such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, help act as a sunscreen.

Remove your makeup completely

Just about everyone has been in this situation.  It’s been a long day and you’re ready to call it a night, but no matter how tired and sleepy you are, always remember to remove your makeup before you go to bed.

True, you might be able to get away without cleansing before bed for a little while.  The more you sleep with makeup on, however, the more clogged pores you’ll get.  More clogged pores means the more breakouts, inflammation, and dark spots you will have.

So why take that chance?  If necessary, use a gentle makeup remover wipe first and then cleanse afterward.   Also make sure to pay attention to the jawline.

Be careful with hair products

Hair products contain oils and other ingredients that aren’t so good for your skin.  This can cause breakouts in the hairline, forehead, or the nape of the neck.

Cover your skin while you’re spraying and be sure to wash your face after applying your hair products.  Also, if your hair constantly falls or hangs in your face, you might want to wear your hair off your face.

Clean your makeup brushes

Makeup Bag

Always make sure you keep your cosmetic tools clean.  Do you realize how much dirt and bacteria can gather on them?   Dirty cosmetic tools can cause clogged pores and infections.

You should clean your makeup brushes and sponges once a week with a gentle cleaner. Remember to practice these tips and acne-free skin will be yours in no time!

Author Bio:

Barbara Jackson

Barbara Jackson is an Esthetician and Acne Specialist.  She teaches women everywhere to love their skin.  She has been working in the skincare field since 2007 and she is passionate about teaching women everywhere through acne coaching.