Acne and Cosmetics

What is Cosmetic Acne?
The development of different types of acne lesions like whiteheads, blackheads, small papules and inflamed pustules as a result of the application of cosmetics on different areas like cheeks, chin and forehead is termed as Cosmetic Acne.

How Does Cosmetic Causes Acne?
There are many factors responsible for the cause of acne. The use and the effect of cosmetics, makeup and other beauty products that are applied to the face, neck, hair and other parts of the body is one such factor responsible for the cause of acne. This is because these cosmetics contain vegetable oil and other chemical ingredients like lanolin, stearic acid, oleic acid, lauryl alcohol etc that can clog the pores, induce follicular irritation and produce more comedones. This ability of cosmetics to induce comedones is known as Comedogenicity. Certain greasy cosmetics may alter the follicular cells and make them stick together.
Several hair care products like shampoo, conditioner, hair oil etc do not easily get washed off. If any of these products trickle down to the face then they could block the pores which ultimately lead to acne breakouts.
Many body care products like soaps, body wash, exfoliating scrubs, lotions, greasy skin creams, body gels etc may not easily get washed off and so they remain on the skin’s surface which ultimately clog the pores and cause skin irritation.

How to Identify Acne Cosmetica?
Acne Cosmetica or the acne caused by cosmetics is a mild form of acne. This type of acne is identified by small, tiny and pink whiteheads clustering over the cheek, chin and forehead. It develops over a period of a few weeks or months and may persist for a long time. It does not result in scarring but it is uncomfortable like all other forms of acne.

Acne Causing Cosmetics:
Certain beauty products which cause cosmetic acne includes makeup, foundation, moisturizer, talcum powder, pomades, face pack, face wash, sunscreen lotions, tanning lotions, hair care products like shampoo, conditioner, hair gel, hair oil, body care products like soaps, body wash, exfoliating scrubs, heavy greasy skin creams, body gels etc.

Cosmetic Acne Skin Care Regimen:
Cosmetic acne skin care regimen is an essential and effective technique incorporated for cleaning the underneath skin before the application of cosmetics in order to prevent the occurrence of acne cosmetica. The different steps of a skin care regimen before and after the application of cosmetics are as follows:

Acne Skin Care Regimen before Applying Cosmetics:
Step 1: Before applying cosmetics, Wash your face with suitable face wash to remove oil and dirt. While washing do not scrub but just apply gentle massage to avoid scratching.
Step 2: Rinse your face with cold or lukewarm water as hot water may irritate your skin and open the pores.
Step 3: Apply appropriate cleanser and tonner by using wipes to clean the pores.
Step 4: Now apply the moisturizer with SPF to protect your skin from sun and to clear the skin from excessive oil.
Step 5: Use the oil free or non-comedogenic cosmetics with natural ingredients to prevent clogging your pores and leave the skin healthier.

Acne Skin Care Regimen after Applying Cosmetics:
Step 1: For those who regularly use makeup in their daily routine, it is very essential to remove makeup at nights before going to bed in order to prevent clogging and maintain a healthy and acne free skin.
Step 2: To remove makeup, cleanse your face with suitable face wash to remove all the traces of makeup.
Step 3: Do not scrub while washing to avoid scratching and skin irritation. Avoid over washing as it may lead to skin dryness.
Step 4: Rinse your face with cold or lukewarm water.
Step 5: Keep your hair and body clean to prevent acne breakouts.

Cosmetic Acne Treatment:
It is easier to treat cosmetic acne as compared to hormonal and hereditary acne. Important remedies for the treatment and prevention of cosmetic acne are as follows:
1) Always make a note of your skin’s reaction whenever you use any new cosmetic product. If you find the development of acne due to the use of this new cosmetic product then stop using that particular product and make a note of the changes on the skin.
2) Always use oil free cosmetics with natural ingredients to prevent acne breakouts. Always purchase non-comedogenic products while shopping for makeup or any other skin and hair care products.
3) Always follow the cosmetic acne skin care regimen before and after the application of cosmetics to maintain healthy skin.
4) Maintain a healthy and well-balanced diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid eating junk and oily food.
5) Perform yoga and exercise on a regular basis.