Acne is a common skin condition that effects up to 80% of the population  at one time or another.  While it isn’t clear exactly what the cause is, there are many things that contribute to it. Women in particular should pay attention to this, because acne is often made worse or even caused by makeup.

Isn’t ironic that the one thing we use to conceal our blemishes can in fact, make acne worse.  Fortunately, there are proper cosmetics who’s use will not complicate acne.  The challenge is to educate yourself on the correct choice and use them correctly. Doing so will aid in your ways to get rid of acne.

So gals, here are some of the ingredients you should look for in makeup as ways to get rid of acne.

One of the most common acne irritators  in skin products, especially lotions and sunscreens, is lanolin. This is a fatty acid extracted from sheep’s wool.  Watch out for Isopropyl Myristate, which promotes smooth, even application in many foundations. Isopropyl Myristrate  is the main ingredient in most rust-removers and bolt lubricants.  This is murder for the skin and the last thing you want.  If you want ways to get rid of acne, then read the labels, and look for products that are water based, oil free, or non-comedogenic (do not clog pores).

Do you use lip products? This might be something that you don’t consider when choosing lib balms, lip gloss, or other lip products. This makeup generally has high concentrates of  petroleum, wax, and other codmedogenic products.  If you are getting breakouts around the mouth area, then switch your product.  Now the rule of thumb is, matte finishes have less chance of causing break outs than does high gloss. It might not be the look you are after, but using matte finishes are effective ways to get rid of acne by not promoting it in the first place.

We all like things that smell good, but fragrance is a major cause of allergic and irritant reactions which promote acne on the face.  Even products that claim to be “unscented” may include fragrances added to mask the smell of other ingredients. Reading the labels will not necessarily inform you of the scents in the ingredients.  The best thing to do if you are uncertain is to try a test patch on a sensitive area of your skin, like the inner elbow.  If after three or four days of repeated application you remain irritation free, then you can apply it to your face.

The rage these days are mineral based makeup.  These minerals can be clog pores and cause irritation especially if it is mica. Mica is used to give that shimmer which is very desirable but not a good choice for acne sufferers. Another additive that gives the red dyes its colors is derived from coal/tar. This is will also clog pores.  Cream blushes,  and blushes that use carmine,  are a couple other no-no’s. Avoid these and you can count them as two more ways to get rid of acne.

Oh my gosh, you got wrinkles around your eyes!  If you are tempted to use creams and moisturizers created for the eye area, don’t.  These tend to be thicker and greasier than regular facial moisturizers.  They tend to migrate to areas around the cheeks, forehead and temples and can create acne. Let the wrinkles wait for another day.

Most hair products are full of the ingredients you should absolutely keep away from your skin. They are not ideal if you are looking for ways to get rid of acne. Styling products contain alcohol, adhesives and oils.  If you are finding you are breaking out on the forehead constantly, then it may very well be from the product you are using in your hair.  Be careful when applying these products.  Keep them away from the skin at the hairline, and avoid using them entirely when you are exercising.  The sweat you create will cause the chemicals to travel to your face and contribute to more acne.

So don’t feel that you have to abandon wearing makeup, just read the labels before you purchase. Look for products that are oil-free and non-comedogenic.  And of course, use your common sense; spot test the product on your skin to test to see if you have a sensitivity to it.  Preventative measures are the best ways to get rid of acne.