Using Cosmetics and Acne

Studies have shown that using cosmetics will not cause true acne. But cosmetics can exacerbate the acne breakouts and cause its own form of acne - acne cosmetica. Acne cosmetica can be triggered by any topical product, so it can strike anyone using these cosmetics even if you are not prone to acne. The following are some tips to consider when using cosmetics to keep yourself from breaking out.

Acne cosmetica is characterized by small, pink pumps that form in the areas that the cosmetics covered. It develops over weeks and/or months as you continue to use the cosmetics. If you start to develop these symptoms after using a new cosmetic product or skin care product, discontinue the product for a couple of days to see if the condition improves.

Cosmetic Acne Tips

The following are some tips to consider when selecting and using cosmetics. The key is to stay away from products that contain comedogenic ingredients (things known to clog pores.) These tips with help you avoid such products and reduce the chance of a cosmetic related breakout.

Use "oil-free" and "non-comedogenic" products: Products labeled oil-free and "non-comedogenic" are less likely to clog your pores and trigger breakouts. Even though some oils are not comedogenic, most oils found in cosmetics can aggravate acne. It is best just to stay away from any cosmetic oils.

Say no to fragrances: Fragrances found in cosmetics and skincare products are the major cause of allergic reactions and irritation to the face. Your best bet is to only use products labeled as "fragrance-free" or "hypo-allergenic". If you do select products containing fragrances test them on a small area of skin (try the patch of skin behind your ear). If no irritation or reaction occurs on the test patch after several days of testing, then it is probably safe to use the product over a larger area.

Avoid eye creams: Most eye creams are thicker and greasier than normal facial moisturizers. These heavy creams can migrate way from the eyes and cause acne breakouts. It is best just to stick with regular facial moisturizers.

Keep hair products in your hair: Hair care products contain tons of ingredients that can cause acne: alcohols, adhesives and oils. So be careful when styling you hair to avoid getting the products on the skin at the hairline.