Can I Wear Makeup If I Have Acne?

Untold numbers of teens and women have discovered that they get acne outbreaks when they wear makeup. In fact, this is so common that doctors have a name for it: Acne Cosmetica.

This condition often results in pimples, whiteheads, and small, red bumps called papules. The good news is that acne cosmetica is almost always a mild form of acne. More good news: there are steps you can take to prevent or treat it.

Acne Cosmetica

There are three main ways that makeup can contribute to acne cosmetica:

Comedogenic ingredients: Some makeup products contain pore-clogging (comedogenic) ingredients. These can aggravate acne-prone skin and lead to breakouts. Some common offenders include lanolin, cocoa butter, and mineral oil.
Oily formulations: Makeup that is too oily can also cause breakouts. If your makeup feels greasy or heavy on your skin, it’s likely contributing to your acne.
Irritating ingredients: Certain ingredients in makeup can irritate the skin and lead to inflammation. This can trigger acne flare-ups or make existing breakouts worse. Irritating ingredients include alcohol, menthol, and certain fragrances.

Unfortunately, it can be difficult to tell whether any particular makeup product is causing breakouts. This is because it takes weeks to months for acne to develop. And, if you’re using many products, it can be even harder to pinpoint the culprit.

Additionally, when people develop acne, they often use makeup to conceal their blemishes. So, it can be tough to know whether the original makeup or the attempts to cover up the acne is to blame.

Steps to Take

If you think that makeup is causing your breakouts, there are a few things you can do:

Look for non-comedogenic and oil-free products: These products are less likely to clog pores or irritate the skin.
Before you go to bed, always remove your makeup: This will help to keep your pores clean and prevent breakouts.
Clean your makeup brushes and applicators: This will help prevent bacterial buildup.
Wash your face: Wash your face only twice a day and after sweating with a gentle, non-drying cleanser. Apply with your fingers using a circular motion.
Be gentle with your makeup: When applying makeup, be sure to use clean hands and a light touch. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing your skin too hard.
Avoid harsh scrubs: Harsh scrubs can irritate the skin and trigger breakouts. Instead, wash your face with a gentle cleanser.
Treat your acne appropriately: If you have acne cosmetica, the breakouts will disappear once you stop using your personal care products. But, if you have underlying acne, you’ll need to treat it with acne medication. You can start with home remedies and then move on to over-the-counter or prescription medications if they are necessary.