Camouflage blemishes in a dermatologically responsible way: what makeup and skincare?

Dr. Annelies Avermaete
14.6.2023

Although you really don't have to be ashamed of yourself acne, we understand that you'd rather not see those pimples and want to hide them as much as possible. Dealing with acne can be frustrating, especially if you want to wear makeup to disguise your skin. Because doesn't that just make things worse?

Fortunately, wearing makeup doesn't have to mean worsening your acne. By choosing wisely and avoiding the right products, you can make your skin look radiant without causing further damage. We would be happy to advise you which products to choose if you have acne-prone skin. Concealing pimples with makeup, what should you pay attention to?

How to disguise blemishes with makeup

Treating Acne, you are already working hard on that. Still, you would like to disguise pimples or acne scars camouflage. Then follow the tips below to choose the right products:

Opt for non-comedogenic products

Non-comedogenic makeup products are specifically designed not to clog pores and thereby reduce acne formation. When choosing foundation, concealer, powder, and other makeup products, look for products with a “non-comedogenic” label.

Avoid heavy, oily products

Oil-based makeup products can clog pores and make existing acne worse. Avoid products with ingredients such as mineral oil, lanolin, and petrolatum. Instead, you can opt for water-based makeup or powders, as they are less comedogenic.

Use lightweight, breathable formulas

Choose makeup products with lightweight formulas that let your skin breathe. Thick, heavy foundation can stifle the skin and make acne worse. Tinted moisturizers, CC creams, light liquid foundations, and powders are good options. They provide coverage without clogging pores.

Note the ingredients

Always read the ingredients list of makeup products before you buy them. Avoid products with irritating ingredients such as alcohol, perfume, sulfates, and synthetic dyes. These ingredients can make skin more sensitive and make acne worse.

Clean thoroughly

Wearing makeup means you have to pay extra attention to cleansing your skin. Make sure you always remove your makeup completely before going to bed. By ensuring that all makeup is removed from your skin, you will prevent additional constipation and inflammation.

Opt for gentle cleansing products that are specifically formulated for acne-prone skin types. Cleanse your skin gently and avoid aggressive rubbing (especially with a cloth or washcloth), as this can further irritate acne.

Sanitize your makeup brushes and makeup sponges

Not only does your skin need to be cleaned properly after wearing makeup, you also need to clean your used makeup brushes and makeup sponges properly. If you don't, they will become bacteria that you use over and over again.

How do you do that? Use an antibacterial soap to wash your brushes and sponges. Do this very thoroughly until no makeup is visible in the water. Then let it dry thoroughly.

Reliable advice from a dermatologist has never been so close.