How to Find the Best Makeup for Acne Prone Skin
The general rule for choosing makeup for acne prone skin is the fewer the ingredients, the better. Look for makeup that is labeled fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, non-acnegenic, non-comedogenic, and powder-based. Mineral makeup usually contains less chemicals and extraneous ingredients than most cosmetics, and does not need as many preservatives as liquid cosmetics, since it comes in powder form. Once you add water into a product, you need preservatives in it to prevent bacteria from forming.
Can I use liquid foundation if I have acne?
Yes, as long as it does not contain pore-clogging oils. When testing products, try them on a small area of your face first and test just one product at a time so you can gauge your skin’s acceptance or rejection of each one accurately. Always make sure the liquid foundation says non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic.
What’s the best way to cover a whitehead with makeup?
You may be tempted to cake on the concealer when trying to cover up an acne lesion, but less is more when it concealing a pimple. First thing to do is cover up any redness by gently dabbing concealer over the red area, being careful not to cover the raised area. You do not want your concealer to appear 3D. Be sure to use a clean finger to gently press the concealer into the pimple. Do not use a brush or sponge, as this will only wipe off the concealer. The next step is lightly pressing on powder to set the concealer.
Are there any special makeup tricks to make my skin look clearer?
If your skin is prone to redness, use a tinted neutralizer or primer under foundation to neutralize the redness. Emphasize eyes or lips and avoid shimmer on the face. Using eyeliner and mascara will create contrast so the focus stays on your eyes and imperfections in your skin are less noticeable.
How can I spot treat my active acne pimples under makeup?
Spot treat your acne with ingredients that will not show through your makeup. Apply a colorless spot treatment, such as Vanished by Clear Clinic Laboratories, with an active medication such as tea tree oil or salicylic acid on top of your acne lesion after you wash your face and before you apply your makeup.
Can my makeup brushes cause breakouts?
One of the best places for bacteria to breed is on dirty makeup brushes and sponges. Every time you sweep on some blush or apply some foundation, the dead skin cells and bacteria that were sitting on your face transfers onto the brush or sponge. And when applied to your face can lead to acne. We recommend cleansing brushes and sponges after every use with a mild shampoo. We do not recommend sharing brushes with friends. To dry them, place them on top of a paper towel and let them sit until you use them the next day.
