Makeup Tips to Boost Confidence without the Breakouts

Whether you're a long time acne warrior or have been blessed with an unexpected breakout, the dilemma of whether to embrace or conceal blemishes can be difficult. Whether you choose to take your spots in your stride or cover them up, makeup can be a useful tool to help give you a little confidence boost. We're only going to say this once… Makeup does not cause acne! 

However, ingredients in some cosmetic products can be found to worsen or irritate a breakout, specifically fragrance full and alcohol based makeup. Here's our top tips and picks for makeup that's both great for your skin and your confidence.

Stick to liquid foundations: We know how tempting it can be to pick up your highest coverage stick concealers or creamy compact foundations to try and mask a breakout. But the ingredients in these solid/semi solid products can do more damage than good for those with blemish prone skin. Stick to foundations and concealers that contain skincare ingredients like niacinamide and salicylic acid. Here are our top picks for foundations which will provide the coverage you need whilst letting your skin breathe.

● Our Top Pick - It Cosmetics your skin but better CC+ cream matte SPF40: £36.50

● Best Budget foundation – Maybelline fit me matte and poreless: £5.99

Powder blush and bronzer: Not all blushes and bronzers are created equally, but generally speaking powder products are the best bet for acne prone skin. Liquids or creams tend to be too emollient and pool in enlarged pores highlighting uneven skin texture.

Makeup Removal: The golden rule when it comes to makeup and acne is proper removal. However, we're not suggesting you scrub it off as micro tears at this stage can cause more breakouts and irritation. Instead arm yourself with your favourite makeup remover and a soft cotton pad and gently swipe.

Follow with a gentle cleanser to ensure there's no residue left behind. Skincare really is the underpinning of a good makeup look, so remembering to be kind to your skin both before

and after application will make the whole process better. 

Edited by Marianne Hamilton.