Acne is a skin condition that is usually caused by follicles that are plugged by oil and bacteria. Acne is known to have various causes. A cause of acne that has been an issue debated among dermatologists and cosmetologists is the effect of cosmetics. It has been said that some cosmetics might cause acne for acne sufferers.
Acne cosmetica is the pimple that is caused by cosmetics. It is a mild and fairly common form of acne. It can be annoying due to the fact that you are using this cosmetic to help hide the acne or redness that you have and it is causing more.
Since it is caused by the application of topical products instead of the complex internal process of other forms of acne, it can affect anyone even those who feel that they are not prone to acne. It appears as small, rashy bumps on the cheeks, forehead and chin. It may develop quickly or over the course of a few weeks or months and may persist for a long time.
It is has been said by dermatologists that make-up or cosmetics does not cause true acne but it is known to exacerbate the condition. So if you have just started using a new product and are experiencing any breakout, it is advisable that you discontinue the use of the product and see if your breakout subsides.
Most make-up or cosmetics contain comedogenic ingredients. Comedogenic ingredients cause the production of comedos (a type of acne) and since most of the make-up migrates into the pores of your skin it usually triggers the production of acne. Some ingredients might induce follicular irritation which can cause cosmetic acne.
To prevent you from having a breakout it is important you use these tips when you are selecting and using any make-up or skincare product.
Here are the tips:
1. Buy non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic products: Some products are non-comedogenic which means that they do not cause acne. These products are very good for those that are prone to acne so always check the product that you want to buy.
2. Avoid products that have penetrating oils: Some oils do not trigger acne so you should buy make-up products that contain these oils. They include sunflower oil and mineral oil. Avoid products that contain lanolin (a fatty acid extracted from sheep’s wool) and Isopropyl Myristate. These oils are known to aggravate acne so it is better to buy products that are labeled and are oil free which are less likely to cause breakouts.
3. Avoid products that have sweet smells: Products that are scented have perfumes added and these perfumes or fragrances are major causes of allergic and irritant reactions on the face. It is best to stick with products that are labeled ‘fragrance-free’ or ‘hypo-allergenic’. However if you know that some perfumes do not cause breakout for you, you can use products that contain these perfumes. When you are buying a new skin product, try to carry out a patch test on the skin behind your ear or on the back of your hand. If no irritation appears after three days of repeated application, you can go ahead with using the product.
4. Be careful when buying eyeshadow and blushes: When buying eyeshadow and blushes, avoid those products that contain mica particles that can cause irritation and also those that are made up of coal tar derivatives. Try buying products that contain carmine (a natural colorant) and also try using gel blushes.
5. Never apply make-up when you are exercising: If you apply make-up and exercise you risk having a break out as the ingredients in the make-up and sweat would trigger acne. Even make-up which contains non-comedogenic ingredients can cause you to break out if you use it and exercise. So leave your skin bare when you want to exercise and always remember to wash (have a bath or shower) after exercising.
6. Keep hair products away from your skin: Most hair products contain ingredients that could cause you to break out so it is very important that you keep them away from your skin at the hairline. Also don’t use hair products when you are exercising as your sweat can carry the products to your skin causing you to breakout.
7. This is very important. DO NOT sleep with your make-up on. Sleeping with make-up would lead to clogged pores which can cause a breakout of acne.
You can use make-up but it is important that you choose the products that you use carefully so as not to aggravate your problems.
I sincerely hope you consider these tips when selecting your make-up or cosmetics and stick to products that are non-comedogenic. Always read the labels carefully in order to avoid ingredients that can trigger acne for you.
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