Acne cosmetica looks like small bumps across the surface of the skin or scalp.
The skin will look and feel rough.
Manycomedones, and possibly some smallpapulesandpustules, will be present.
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There usually is little to no inflammation.
It also includes treatment options and ways it’s possible for you to prevent this form of acne.
Acne Cosmetica Causes
Acne cosmetica is brought on by the use ofcomedogenichair or skin care products.
When something is comedogenic, it causes acne by blocking the pores and hair follicles in your skin.
In this case, cosmetic products that are comedogenic build up within a hair follicle and block the pore.
Diagnosis
Not knowing the cause of your acne cosmetica breakouts can be frustrating.
One way to do this is to narrow down the cause at home through a process of elimination.
Keep in mind that in most cases of acne cosmetica, breakouts don’t occur instantly.
Acne cosmetica breakouts take time to formanywhere from a few days to six weeks after using a product.
If you recently started using a new product and are suddenly breaking out, the connection may be obvious.
See if your blemishes improve when you stop using the new product for a week or two.
Otherwise, choose one product from your list and stop using it for at least a week.
If your skin starts to look better, you may have found the culprit.
Wash your skin in the morning and at night.
If your skin is dry, you’re free to use a moisturizer labeled “non-comedogenic.”
Keeping your skin clean and applying as little product as possible should improve acne cosmetica within weeks.
This information will also come in handy if you decide to see a dermatologist.
You certainly do not have to stress yourself out over finding the cause of your acne cosmetica at home.
This information will help them determine the right treatment for you.
Going makeup-less a few times per week is a great start.
Granted, just keeping your skin bare won’t necessarily be enough to clear up your skin.
You will likely need to take a few extra steps.
A handful of studies have shown positive results from using cleansers that contain salicylic acid.
After eight weeks of using the cleanser, significant reductions in acne blemishes were reported.
Researchers also noted that the salicylic acid cleanser was gentle, non-drying, and well-tolerated.
Definitely, do not go to bed without washing off makeup.
Exfoliants and Peels
To exfoliate means toremove dead skin cells from your skin’s surface.
You may see this treatment referred to as a chemical peel.
There are two, in particular, to look out for salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.
You already know that salicylic acid fights breakouts by helping your skin shed dead skin cells.
Benzoyl peroxide attacks bacteria on your skin and can assist salicylic acid in keeping your pores clean.
It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Both are highly effective for preventing clogged pores and breakouts, and they work well together, too.
However, for people with dry or sensitive skin, this combination may be too drying.
Differin (adapalene) is another OTC acne treatment that inhibits pimple formation.
Some kinds of prescription topical medications containtretinoin, which is a key in of retinoid made from vitamin A.
Other kinds contain benzoyl peroxide or an antibiotic calledclindamycin.
If your acne is more severe, you may be prescribed an oral medication.
Oral medications are systemic, meaning that they are absorbed throughout your whole body.
Prescription oral medications include a daily antibiotic pill (likedoxycycline or minocycline) and oral isotretinoin.
you’re free to try it by mixing a few drops into your moisturizer.
Manuka honey can have an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin.
However, researchers have yet to confirm whether or not it is effective as an acne-fighting agent.
Witch hazel has garnered a lot of attention among the skincare community as well.
If this seems to be the case for you, try another brand or product labeled noncomedogenic.
Your skin might tolerate one better than another.
Having acne is normal, whether you are a teenager or anadult.
You should never allow acne to rule your life.
For extra help, try using makeup that has salicylic acid, an acne-fighting ingredient.
However, you’ve got the option to still use makeup even if you have acne.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.I have acne!
Is it okay to wear makeup?.
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National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Tea tree oil.
2017;5(2):190-199. doi:10.1002/iid3.153
National Institutes of Health.Questions and answers about acne
