For those whose skin is acne-prone and regularly suffers from breakouts, the realm of makeup is a double-edged sword of sorts. While makeup is often used by those in this position to conceal breakouts or similar issues, using the wrong makeup — or even using the right makeup, but in the wrong ways — can actually exacerbate acne for many people.
If you’re receiving assistance from quality acne treatment professionals, these are just some of the areas that will likely be covered in addition to actual treatment formats. Here are some basic tips on the use of makeup if you have acne-prone skin, from selecting the right products to proper usage of them and much more.
Choosing Ideal Makeup
While the optimal makeup choice for you will depend on more than just your acne, and will also include other skin factors, there are a few common choices here. Mineral makeup powder, for instance, is very popular among those with acne. It doesn’t contain any oils or chemicals that could aggravate skin, and it also helps to absorb excess oil.
Another good option for those with acne is a water-based foundation. Again, these foundations typically don’t contain any oils that could worsen breakouts, and they often help to hydrate skin as well.
When looking for makeup to cover blemishes, it’s important to select a product that is specifically labeled as being for acne-prone skin. This way, you can be sure that the ingredients won’t further aggravate your skin.
Complementary Colors
Your selection of makeup should also consider the area of your skin you’re looking to cover, and which complementary colors will do best. For example, green concealer is often recommended for covering redness on the skin. The general goal here is to find the opposite color to the issue on your skin, which will allow you to cover it properly. You can use a standard color wheel to assist you here if needed.
Correct Application Techniques
Just as important as the makeup products you use are the techniques you employ when applying them. When it comes to foundation, for example, be sure to start with a light layer and build up if needed. Don’t apply it too heavily, as this will only exacerbate your skin issues.
Likewise, when applying concealer, use a light touch and avoid rubbing it into your skin. This will help to minimize the appearance of your blemishes while also avoiding any further irritation. Finally, be sure to wash your makeup brushes regularly. This will help to keep them free of bacteria and oils that could aggravate your skin.
Layering Themes
For many who deal with acne regularly, especially those who deal with red or purple marks based on acne breakouts, layering makeup can be a great way to cover up the marks while also creating an overall theme. For example, you might use a green concealer to cover redness on your skin, and then top it with a water-based foundation in a slightly lighter color. This will help to create an even complexion without drawing attention to the areas you’re trying to cover.
If you’re covering lighter color flaws, on the other hand, you might want to use a darker matte foundation as your base. This will help to cancel out the light colors and create an overall balance.
No single makeup technique or product will work for everyone, so it’s important to experiment until you find what works best for you. With some trial and error, you can find the perfect makeup routine to both help cover acne breakouts and ensure you’re not contributing to further breakout issues.
