Acne-Safe Makeup: What To Wear and Avoid!

There is nothing worse than waking up with a bright red little mountain in the middle of your forehead. It’s annoying, uncomfortable, and can really bring your confidence down. What’s worse is trying to understand where it came from – was it something I ate? A bad reaction? Hormonal?

More likely than not, it's clogged pores from makeup. Makeup, while beautiful and fun to wear, can be harmful to acne-prone and sensitive skin. While many beauty brands are switching to the use of clean ingredients, some products will still be more pore-clogging than others. Here is a quick guide to see which of your favorite makeup products are safe for acne-prone skin!

SAFE:

1. Rare Beauty Liquid Blush 

Selena Gomez’s makeup brand Rare Beauty continues to hit the mark with acne-safe products. The iconic liquid blush does not contain any pore-clogging ingredients and is safe for your skin.

2. It Cosmetics CC+ Nude Glow Lightweight Foundation  

It Cosmetics always has the acne community's back, and it's no different with their CC+ cream that doubles for a lightweight foundation. The product is safe for acne skin and provides great coverage.

3. E.L.F. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer 

Before we apply our creams, liquids, and powders, the first step is always primer. E.L.F. Cosmetics supplies a perfect acne-safe primer that keeps your makeup on and skin protected all day long.

4. Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation 

With foundation, it can be scary to pick which one is best for you. Have no fear when Giorgio Armani is here! The Luminous Silk Foundation provides a glowy, full-coverage look without harming your skin.

5. Maybelline Fit Me Foundation & Concealer 

Maybelline’s Fit Me line is a safe choice for your skin. The foundation and concealer both come in a wide variety of shades to choose from, allowing you to pick your perfect match, not your pimples.

AVOID

Look out for any products that contain Talc, a mineral that is technically safe for the skin-based cosmetics but it is pore-clogging. Also avoid foundations that have Ethylhexyl Palmitate, a fatty acid which can be a skin irritant around your eyes. Mango Butter, Isopropyl Myristate, and Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil should also be avoided (both Ethylhexyl Palmitate and Isopropyl Myristate can both cause skin irritation and rash), as well as Laureth-4, a chemical derived from vegetable fats that can and will cause acne. Corn Oil, which in often included in those supposedly effortless "no makeup" products, will 100% cause you more pimple problems.

And if you are still unsure, NYC Acne Clinic has an online website where you can type in your products and see if they contain pore-clogging ingredients. 

And remember, don’t pop those pesky pimples!