Misconception: Makeup causes acne.

Misconception: Makeup causes acne.

In skincare, there are numerous misconceptions. Some are founded, while others are inaccurate. What is the truth behind the statement: makeup causes acne? We explain what you need to know about this topic.

Summary
Published November 12, 2021, updated on February 14, 2024, by Sandrine, Scientific Editor — 4 min read

A few words on acne.

Acne is achronic inflammatory diseasethat presents itself through the emergence of pimples on the face and/or body. The causes of acne are numerous: genetics, hormonal fluctuations, stress, or even the intake of certain medications. It generally affects teenagers but also adults.

The primary reason for consultation with a dermatologist, acne can lead to a lack of self-confidence and genuine psychological distress. Makeup can be a solution to better cope with acne by concealing it. But are makeup and acne truly compatible?

Does makeup really cause acne?

"Makeup exacerbates acne, one should not wear makeup if they have acne."

You've likely heard this kind of statement if you have acne-prone skin, and you're wondering whether to believe it.

In some cases, this is true. The onset and/or worsening of acne can be linked to the use of unsuitable cosmetic products; this is referred to as cosmetic acne. Among the products to avoid, we can mention comedogenic makeup. Indeed, this type of makeup clogs the pores that lead to the formation of comedones (blackheads). Here is a list of comedogenic ingredients to avoid that are incompatible with oily or acne-prone skin or skin that already has problems and clogged pores:

  • The animal waxes: Beeswax and Lanolin;

  • Some mineral oils and waxes derived from hydrocarbons: Paraffinum Liquidum, Cera Microcristallina, Synthetic Wax, Petrolatum, Mineral Oil, Ceresin Wax, etc... ;

  • Some vegetable oils and butters: Triticum Vulgare or Wheat Germ Oil, Argania Spinosa (Argan Oil), Persea Gratissima (Avocado Oil), Coco Nucifera or Coconut Butter, Cocoa Butter or Theobroma Cocoa (Cocoa Butter), Butyspermum Parkii or Shea Butter, Rosa Canina or Rosehip Oil, Castor Oil, etc... ;

  • The gums and resins : Carageenan (Carrageenan), Algin (Sodium Alginate), xanthan, etc... ;

  • Certain fatty esters : Specifically derivatives of stearic and oleic acids or even isopropyl myristate, the unsaponifiables, squalanes and squalenes, etc...

Makeup and Acne: How to Prevent the Emergence of Pimples?

  • Use a non-comedogenic makeup that helps to prevent clogging of the pores and thus worsening of acne. The light formula of our tinted serum does not clog the pores, thereby preventing the formation of blemishes.

  • Do not neglect makeup removal ! The accumulation of particles in the pores can play a role in acne by causing skin inflammation. Therefore, makeup removal is an essential step for maintaining healthy skin. We recommend double cleansing to purify your skin from makeup and sunscreen particles. Our purifying double cleanse (purifying cleansing gel + makeup removal balm) allows for gentle makeup removal, followed by the elimination of impurities that clog the pores. The skin is cleansed and rebalanced.

  • Makeup brushes and sponges are real breeding grounds for bacteria! Remember to clean them regularly.

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