Skin Conditions

Acne Cosmetica

Makeup products can trigger acne or make existing acne worse, then we decide to try and disguise our skin blemishes by using even more makeup. This can lead to a condition called 'Acne Cosmetica'.

Acne Cosmetica is a mild but persistent form of acne. As the name implies, Acne Cosmetica is triggered by the use of cosmetics. It can occur anywhere on the body but is commonly found on the face, neck and hairline. Acne Cosmetica appears as small bumps across the skin surface. The skin will look and feel rough, many comedones and possibly some small papules and pustules will be present.

When a cosmetic product accumulates, excess skin oil builds up, the pore becomes blocked creating a blemish. This type of Acne can be caused by the use of comodogenic skincare products, heavy moisturisers, eye creams and makeup.

In order to improve the skin condition, it is important to identify what is causing the breakout. Are you breaking out on the forehead, hairline or scalp? Your hair care products may be to blame. Finding small bumps and whiteheads in the eye area or on the upper cheeks? Your eye cream could be to heavy. Breakouts over the entire face and neck area are most likely caused by moisturiser or foundation. Once the source of the breakouts is identified and use is discontinued, acne cosmetica gradually improves. You can still reduce the amount of pore blockages produced by only choosing products labeled noncomodogenic. Switch to an oil-free moisturiser and make sure to thoroughly cleanse all traces of makeup before bedtime.