Top 5 Makeup Ingredients That Cause Breakouts

Does your skin seem to breakout more after wearing makeup? If so, you may suffer from a condition known as 'acne cosmetica'. 

Acne cosmetica is a mild form of acne that is caused by the ingredients found in certain cosmetics. Although this condition can occur on any area of the body, it is most commonly found on the hairline, neck, face, and scalp. Over time, cosmetics can accumulate in the tiny follicles on your face, and cause a blocked pores. Excess oils build up within these pores, and erupt into a blemish.

Chemical foundations, heavy moisturizers, and thick eye creams can cause breakouts on the face. Hair gels, pomades, lotions, and body butters can cause breakouts on the rest of the body and scalp. What exactly is in these products that can irritate the skin so badly? Let's take a look at some of the most common makeup ingredients that are causing you to break out.

Lanolin is an oily substance that is extracted from lamb's wool. It works wonderfully to moisturize the skin, but it can clog the pores quickly. Many foundations contain 'acetylated lanolin', which is a synthetic lanolin derivative in order to make their customer's face feel smooth after applying it. Although it does make skin soft, it also builds up within pores and later causes acne-like breakouts.

Sulfates are used in facial cleansers to cause it to foam. These are the same sulfates that make laundry detergent and dish soap to create lather. Although cleansers containing sulfates may make your skin feel squeaky clean, over time they can leave a film on your skin, clogging pores and causing breakouts.

Many cosmetics (including foundation) can contain artificial fragrances that help to disguise their chemical-like scent. Although these added fragrances will not clog your pores, they can cause allergic reactions, causing inflammation and a rash-like breakout. If you are experiencing breakouts that do not contain pustules, and instead causes your skin to feel rough or develop a rash, you may not be suffering from clogged pores, but an allergic reaction instead.

Bismuth oxychloride is a standard ingredient used in a lot of top mineral makeup lines. Bismuth oxychloride is a synthetic pearl that is manufactured by combining bismuth, a by-product of lead and copper with chloride and water. It's used in cosmetics because it has a distinctive pearlescent appearance and a fine texture that adheres well to the skin; however, it is very harsh to the skin and can cause rashes and breakouts.

There are several types of alcohol used in cosmetics, and all of them can irritate the skin. Cetyl alcohol can cause a type of sludge to deposit in the pores, causing pustules to form on the skin. Ethyl alcohol is used in products geared towards individuals with oily skin in order to dry it out; however, it can be excessively drying, leading to irritation and rashes.

Although all of these ingredients are commonly found in cosmetics, there is a way to prevent them from causing damage to your skin: simply make the switch to using all-natural mineral cosmetics. Cosmetics that contain all-natural ingredients use skin-loving constituents that allow your skin to breathe and stay clear of breakouts. If you are currently suffering from acne cosmetica, make sure to use only cosmetics and skincare products made from natural ingredients, and your skin will be healthy in no time.