I love makeup. So much so when I was 12 I spent my school term allowance all on Benefit products - it didn't go down so well with my parents when I had to phone them to ask for more money and explain the situation (we've all been there).
Over the years struggling with acne, I have realised that not all makeup is created equal nor are some products so friendly for the skin - particularly if you are breakout prone.
If you do have acne it can be tempting to plaster your skin in foundation to mask the situation - while it is totally OK to wear makeup and cover blemishes, it is absolutely vital that you choose non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) products, otherwise, you'll just exacerbate the problem big time.
In this post, I have outlined some go-to products that won't cause your skin to go into a frenzy, as well as outlined the red flags to look out for when choosing your makeup as well as applying it.
Key points to note:
Avoid any oil-based products like the plague - these are highly comedogenic and will sadly just block your pores and lead to breakouts :(
Never go to bed without having properly removed your makeup and cleansed your skin. This point goes regardless of what products you use, but it is so important to remove the excess sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria that build-up throughout the day and leave your pores clear.
Be wary of primers - particularly silicone-based ones. While these can make your skin look incredible and air-brushed, the repercussions are not worth it. Primers give that flawless look by filling your pores so your skin looks uber smooth, but unfortunately, this is disastrous if you're acne-prone.
Try to remove your makeup before your workout or at least straight after - I know it is tempting to leave it on particularly if you go very red (I resemble a tomato) but after exercise, the sweat mixed with makeup is a terrible combo for breakouts - your skin will thank you.
And a note on makeup brushes - make sure you clean them regularly (once a week at least) with either shampoo or a dedicated makeup brush cleanser, any application tools can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
Products to go for:
Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation - my all-time favourite foundation, it looks like you're not wearing any makeup
IT Cosmetics CC+ Oil-Free Matte - great everyday product and a little goes a long way
Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation - pricey but one of the best out there for skin health, this is particularly loved by Dermatologists
Clinique Acne Solutions Liquid Makeup Foundation
SkinClearing Oil-Free Acne and Blemish Fighting Liquid Foundation (Neutrogena) - budget-friendly
Immaculate Liquid Powder Foundation Mattifying Oil Free by Hourglass - again pricey but particularly good for oilier skin types as it contains kaolinite clay and gives you a flawless finish
Et voilà! I hope you enjoyed - let me know your thoughts in the comments and if you have any questions <3
Lots of love,
Madeleine xoxo