The best makeup for acne prone skin can be used safely by people suffering from acne and breakouts. These products eliminate redness and also contain acne fighting ingredients to prevent future breakouts. Acne prone skin requires skin care products and makeup that will not irritate it. It is extremely sensitive and prone to redness and inflammation. So if you have acne prone skin, it is important to read labels and find products that are non-comedogenic. Choosing the wrong makeup products can result in clogged pores, which in turn aggravates the skin and leads to more breakouts. Ironically they can also actually accentuate the flaws and pimples you’re trying to cover up.
Non-comedogenic Makeup
Non comedogenic makeup and skincare products that those that do not clog pores. If you have acne prone skin, all the makeup you use must be non-comedogenic, non-irritating, hypoallergenic, oil-free and non-greasy. Look for products that are water or mineral based. Mineral based cosmetics contain ingredients such as zinc oxide, silica, and titanium dioxide which mask redness and absorb oil without irritating skin. Dimethicone is another ingredient that smoothes out uneven skin and reduces redness, without triggering breakouts.
However, not all products that claim to be non-comedogenic, actually are. So look for products that are lighter in consistency and don’t have a thick texture. These are generally more suitable for acne prone skin. It is also advisable to opt for products that contain natural ingredients and are oil-free
Makeup Picks for Acne-Prone Skin
Using makeup products such as foundations and concealers are an excellent way to camouflage pimples. The best makeup to cover acne can camouflage breakouts and scars completely. However, applying layer upon layer of makeup is not the best approach. If you use the wrong products or do not apply them correctly, zits and marks can look more pronounced. Also, many acne treatments can leave dryness or redness which will look worse when slathered with thick makeup. So it important to choose suitable products if you have acne prone skin.
Through intensive research and trials, we’ve compiled a checklist of the best makeup products for people with acne.
1. Neutrogena Skin Clearing Oil-Free Makeup Blemish Treatment with Salicylic Acid
The Neutrogena Skin Clearing Oil-Free Makeup not only treats blemishes but also prevents the emergence of new spots. It is formulated with patented MicroClear technology which harnesses the power of salicylic acid, a potent anti-acne ingredient. This product unclogs pores and gets rid of excess oil for quick acne relief.
It gives skin a natural, shine-free finish, without clogging pores. It is also available in a wide range of shades to work for all skin tones and ethnicities.
2. Stila Stay All Day Foundation & Concealer
This is a 2-in-1 non comedogenic foundation that offers a matte finish and medium coverage. The Foundation is lightweight, while the concealer that is packaged in the cap of the container offers full coverage. It is excellent at camouflaging problem areas such as pimples, scars, and dark circles.
The formulation contains powerful antioxidants and anti-irritants with soothe skin and reduce redness. The antioxidants in this product protect the skin from free radical damage, which is a leading cause of aging. They also reduce oxidative damage and promote skin elasticity.
This foundation is an excellent choice for people with normal to oily skin. While the cream concealer does not have the same beneficial ingredients, it offers excellent coverage. There are over a dozen shades to choose from for all skin tones.
3. MAC Pro Longwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation
Best Longwear Waterproof Makeup Foundation
The MAC Pro Longwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation can be used both as a concealer and as a foundation. It is extremely long lasting and stays on for up to 24 hours. It offers medium to full coverage with a natural satin finish and comes in a weightless, waterproof formulation. It is suitable for all skin types and is completely waterproof and oil-free. Its unique formula repels moisture from the surface of the skin, giving you a shine free and seamless finish. It is easy to blend with your fingers, a brush or a sponge. It is non-comedogenic and dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested.
4. NARS All Day Luminous Weightless Foundation
This is one of the best non comedogenic foundations which has a brightening formula and offers full coverage. It conceals signs of redness and inflammation. It has a lightweight texture and lasts for up to 16 hours.
The NARS foundation is highly pigmented and gives a natural looking finish. It is entirely water, sweat, and humidity proof. It is easy to blend and instantly neutralizes redness and reduces discoloration. The formulation does not clog pores and contains treated pigments and polymers that move with the skin to provide a natural finish. It is made without parabens and is comfortable to wear for long periods of time. This product is dermatologist tested and is free of fragrance.
5. L’Oreal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Concealer
Best Makeup Concealer For Acne Prone Skin
This concealer from L’Oreal has a creamy, blendable formulation and provides full coverage. The formula is oil free, non-comedogenic and dermatologist tested. It covers blemishes, redness, and dark circles. The coverage offered is medium, and it does not look heavy or unnatural on skin.
The product comes in a tube packaging with a brush type applicator. It has a creamy liquid consistency and can be blended in with a brush. It is lightweight and provides coverage that lasts up to 6 hours. It offers a seamless, natural finish without leaving streaks or uneven areas.
What to Avoid When Choosing the Best Makeup for Acne Prone Skin
When looking for the best makeup for oily, acne prone skin, it is best to avoid alcohol- based products. These are mentioned as SD or denatured in the ingredients list of products. Also stay away from products with heavy fragrances as these can trigger allergic reactions and exacerbate oiliness and breakouts.
Also as a general rule of thumb, it is best to avoid solid or thick makeup products as these have the tendency to clog pores. Do not use thick foundations or products in compact or stick form. Other ingredients to steer clear of are silicones, lanolin, oils and fatty acids which can clog pores and lead to breakouts.
Final Thoughts
If you are someone who suffers from acne, you know that it can be a debilitating condition. Instead of letting pimples and acne ruining your life, use the appropriate acne fighting, non-comedogenic products. These will help you gradually get rid of acne for good. In the meantime, you can use the right makeup products to camouflage existing scars and breakouts.
