Acne, whether caused by hormonal imbalances or other skin issues, is a debilitating issue. The key to dealing with acne-prone skin is to treat it gently while concealing problem areas. There are many types of makeup that not only conceal, but also treat existing acne while preventing new acne from appearing.
Salicylic Acid
There are many different types of treatment makeup on the market that include salicylic acid, which is a well-known acne treatment and preventative. Salicylic acid works by increasing cell turnover, which helps clear blemishes and clogged pores. Choosing concealers and foundations that contain salicylic acid may help clear skin over time while concealing any problem areas, and using these products eliminates the need to apply a separate topical acne treatment.
Color-Correcting Primers & Concealers
One major side effect of acne is red areas on the skin, or dark scarring left behind after a blemish heals. The best way to deal with these issues is color correction. This technique works by neutralizing the affected area using color theory, where a color is canceled out by the color opposite of it on the color wheel. Red areas are neutralized by the color green, and dark areas are neutralized by the color yellow. Color-correcting cosmetics are becoming more popular, and many makeup lines have both green and yellow correctors. These are often available as primers, which prepare and smooth the entire face before makeup is applied. Concealers are applied only to the spots where they are needed. Using color-correcting products is one way to use much less foundation, creating a more natural look.
Foundation
When searching for best foundation for acne-prone skin, avoid shiny or “luminizing” foundations, as the light-reflecting particles in the makeup will collect around blemishes and draw more attention to them. Using a full-coverage, matte-finish foundation will ensure that most spots and scarring are covered, reducing the need for concealer later.
Concealer
The right concealer for acne-prone skin will be slightly waxy yet easy to blend, and may be color-correcting or contain salicylic acid. Stick concealers are typically best for blemishes, as they wont slide off as easily as a creamy concealer. Look for a concealer that complements the skin tone as closely as possible. It is often easier to buy foundation and concealer from the same line, so that the color and formula is a close match.
Finishing Powder
After the foundation and concealer are applied, it is best to set the makeup with a powder or spray to make the look last longer. Using a powder will further mattify the skin and also prevent shine from reappearing throughout the day. A good finishing powder for acne-prone skin may or may not have salicylic acid as an ingredient. Once again, shade matching is very important. To make this easier, look for a powder in the same line as the foundation and concealer.
Setting Spray
An alternative to setting powder is a finishing spray. These sprays contain ingredients that “set” the makeup the same way a powder would, without the application of additional color products on the skin. This usually produces a more natural look than setting powder. It is a personal preference whether you use a powder or setting spray because they both accomplish the same task and produce the same result.
Choosing the best acne products and best makeup for acne prone skin can be a difficult task; however, double-duty products can help make the job easier, while being easier on the wallet as well. Not to mention, that since they eliminate the need for a separate topical treatment, getting ready in the morning is a breeze.
Linda White is a freelance blogger and writer, working for companies wishing to brand themselves through successful marketing. She is a mother of three and enjoys keeping healthy and hiking in her free time.