An Investigation of Makeup Ingredients and Their Effects on Acne Cosmetica with Dermatologic Practice Recommendations

Abstract

Acne cosmetica, a type of acne linked to cosmetic usage, is characterized by persistent mild breakouts and occurs due to the interplay between sebum and trapped comedogenic products in makeup products. Regular cosmetic usage may cause acne since it has been determined that a reduction in makeup application can help reduce its severity. There is a pressing need for dermatologists and patients to select appropriate, well-tolerated, and non-comedogenic makeup products containing active ingredients that help to eradicate acne. This literature review will thus examine common ingredients found in makeup products that act as comedogenic irritants, acnefriendly ingredients, and explore dermatologic recommendations to address beauty product use in acne-prone patients. Both PubMed and Google Scholar were searched using keywords skincare and makeup ingredients combined with acne cosmetica in adolescents and dermatology. This literature review has indicated that patients suffering from acne should be recommended to avoid using comedogenic products and switch to acne-friendly ingredients that are safe for skin. Dermatologists should recommend the use of prescription topical medications containing ingredients such as retinol and salicylic acid to yield visible and noticeable results. These findings help to strengthen the dermatologists' understanding of common active ingredients found in beauty products and helps guide recommendations for patients suffering from acne.