Do you struggle with frequent breakouts despite taking good care of your skin? It could be because you wear makeup. Many products on the market today contain ingredients that can clog pores, leading to acne and other skin issues.
But don't worry, there are steps you can take to prevent this from happening. At Peach Dermatology, a full-service general, medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology practice founded by Dr. Waqas R. Shaikh, MD, MPH, we specialize in treating all types of skin concerns.
In this article, we'll discuss why your makeup is causing breakouts and how we can treat and prevent them. We'll also provide tips for choosing the right makeup and proper hygiene practices to keep your skin healthy and blemish-free.
Understanding Acne Cosmetica
Acne cosmetica, also known as 'makeup-induced acne,' is a type of acne caused by the use of makeup and other cosmetic products. It typically appears on the face, neck, and upper chest and is characterized by small bumps, pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads.
The ingredients in makeup that cause this type of acne are comedogenic (pore-clogging), meaning they can block hair follicles and trap bacteria, dead skin cells, and oil. These clogged pores then become inflamed, leading to breakouts.
Some common ingredients to look out for are:
- Acetylated lanolin
- Cetearyl alcohol + ceteareth 20 (only when they’re in the same formulation)
- Isopropyl myristate
- Coconut oil
- Ethylhexyl palmitate
- Propylene glycol monostearate
- Sodium lauryl sulfate
To determine if a product is comedogenic, look for the 'non-comedogenic' label on the packaging or check the ingredient list for any of the above ingredients. If you're unsure, consult with our dermatologist before using the product.
Why Does Makeup Cause Acne Breakouts?
Aside from comedogenic ingredients, there are other ways that makeup can contribute to breakouts. These include:
- Sleeping with makeup on: Leaving makeup on overnight can clog pores and lead to bacterial growth in the skin.
- Sharing or using expired products: Sharing makeup brushes or using expired products can introduce bacteria to your skin, leading to breakouts.
- Using heavy or oily products: Thick foundations, concealers, and primers can clog pores and cause breakouts.
- Incompatible with skin type: Not every product is suitable for every skin type. Using makeup products that are not designed for your specific skin type can cause irritation and breakouts.
- Lack of proper hygiene: Failure to properly remove makeup at the end of the day or using dirty makeup applicators can also lead to bacterial growth and breakouts on the skin.
How Can We Treat and Prevent Acne Cosmetica?
The most effective way to treat acne cosmetica is to eliminate the use of comedogenic products and adopt a thorough skincare routine. However, if you're already experiencing breakouts caused by makeup, don't worry – there are treatment options available.
At Peach Dermatology, we offer a range of treatments for acne and other skin concerns, including:
- Topical medications: We may prescribe topical creams or gels containing ingredients like retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid to help unclog pores and reduce inflammation.
- Oral medications: In severe cases, oral antibiotics or birth control pills may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and regulate hormones.
- Chemical peels: We offer various chemical peel treatments that can exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and improve overall skin texture and appearance.
- Education on proper skincare: Our dermatologist can provide personalized recommendations for skincare routines and products that will work best for your skin type and concerns.
To prevent future breakouts from wearing makeup, follow these tips:
- Always remove your makeup before going to bed, as sleeping with makeup on can clog your pores and cause breakouts.
- If you have sensitive skin or acne-prone skin, opt for non-comedogenic, oil-free, and fragrance-free makeup products. Always patch-test new products before using them on your face.
- Use a gentle cleanser to wash your face twice a day. Avoid scrubbing too harshly or using hot water, as it can cause skin irritation.
- Use clean makeup brushes and sponges to apply products. Wash them regularly with mild soap and water to prevent acne-causing bacteria from spreading onto your skin.
- Avoid touching your face or makeup products with dirty hands, as it can transfer bacteria onto your skin and cause breakouts.
Don't Let Makeup Ruin Your Skin
While makeup can enhance your beauty and boost your confidence, it's crucial to choose products wisely and adhere to proper hygiene practices to avoid makeup-induced breakouts. By opting for non-comedogenic, oil-free, and mineral-based makeup, regularly cleaning your makeup applicators, and following a gentle skincare routine, you can enjoy the benefits of makeup without compromising your skin's health.
If you find yourself struggling with acne cosmetica, remember that treatment options and professional guidance are available at Peach Dermatology. Dr. Waqas R. Shaikh and our dedicated team are here to help you achieve and maintain clear, healthy skin.
Ready to say goodbye to makeup-induced breakouts? Schedule an appointment with Peach Dermatology today and get personalized skincare recommendations from Dr. Shaikh.
