Acne Care - Cosmetics

Cosmetics can be defined as beautifying preparations used for cleansing and promoting the attractiveness of the skin and hair. These products are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Archaeologists, have found evidence of cosmetics and make-up being used in Egypt as long ago as the 4th century B.C. So, cosmetics have been around for a long time. As the knowledge of plants, minerals and animals increased, so to did the cosmetic ingredients, to become the sophisticated industry it is today, with thousands of products out there to choose from. Semi permanent make-up techniques have also been developed, which can last 2-5 years.

You can find products for every type of skin, there are special preparations for Asian and Arab skins, African complexions and Fair complexions. There are products for baby skin, teenage skin, adult skin and even cosmetic formulations for mens skin.There are also many preparations on the market for problem skin. As the skin changes throughout life, and even seasons, skin care products need to be changed accordingly, and more suitable products used, as the skin ages. Diet, environment and genetics determine the skins health. Too much sun, excess of alcohol, smoking, a poor diet, stress and lack of sleep can have a detrimental effect on the skin. Daily factors, such as stress and toxic chemicals can affect the skin, making it prone to acne breakouts. This can even be caused by ingredients in cosmetics, the triggers often being oils, fragrances, powders, and chemicals. Oils, such as lanolin, which is full of fatty acids, mineral oil and para bens, can cause blemishes. Fragrances, can aggravate the skin. It is the mica in the powdered cosmetics which can clog the pores, especially in the shimmery products. Chemicals such as isopropyl myristate, a compound used to add a sheer finish to make-up products, bismuth oxy chloride, which is a filler in foundations and coal based dyes, which can also be irritants to the skin. The skin then has to try and shed these irritants, resulting in blemishes and acne outbreaks.

The choice to use cosmetics is a personal one. Some people who have acne, feel it is best to have a good cleansing routine, but will not wear any make-up, as it may aggravate their skin condition. Others, like to try to cover their skin condition, because it helps to raise their self esteem, and makes them feel better. So the key is to know your skin, the type of skin you have, and the severity of the acne condition. Once armed with this knowledge, you can take the next step.

Generally, the aim is to protect the skin from climactic conditions, such as the sun and toxins, so choose a cream containing antioxidants and a sun factor. Hydration is a big factor, minerals and vitamins in the cream are important. To stimulate the skin, creams containing peptides and retinols are also available. Basically, cosmetics and skin care, which support the skins natural ability to heal and renew itself, as well as beautify. So, it is best to go for cosmetics which contain high quality, natural ingredients, containing no para bens, or artificial fragrances, perhaps organic ingredients, containing fruits, flowers and syrups may be a good start.

Therefore, a good skin care regime, can be a foundation to help mitigate some of the problems which occur with acne. To start with the basics, an alkaline soap film left on the face can breed bacteria, so wash and cleanse thoroughly to remove all the impurities, pollutants, dirt, sweat and oil. A PH balance is important, especially for teenagers, so apply a toner. If the skin feels tight and dry, it will produce more oil, so the next step is to seal the skin with a good moisturiser, while the skin is damp. For dry skin, perhaps a cream based cleanser is best, followed by a toner and a cream rich in antioxidants and glycerin to bind in the moisture and prevent water loss. For oily skin, cleansers have been formulated, which contain antibacterial's, which strip out the oil in the skin and kill bacteria, either gel or clay based, followed by a light weight cream, lotion or gel with antioxidants. Citrus based cosmetics remove excess oil.For sensitive skin, use fragrance free lotions and creams which contain chamomile, aloe vera, or any other soothing ingredient. Manuka honey face creams, are useful for sensitive skin. They contain antibacterial, and anti inflammatory properties. They hydrate, and moisturise the skin. The latest new, mineral make-up products, contain no fillers, oil, wax or talc. They are a mix of crushed minerals and water, which is mixed to a paste and baked in the sun. They are non camedogenic and hypoallergic products. They respond to the warmth of the skin.

Buy make-up products which matches your skin tone. Apply a concealer, in alight dabbing motion to acne blotches and blend into the skin with a disposable sponge. Use the concealer sparingly, apply a foundation in the same way, then apply a light layer of oil free powder. Face blotters are useful to take off excess makeup. Eyebrows, may be quite difficult to care for, and are often best left to professionals, but gel applied, can often be a useful way to help keep them groomed. Cold weather, can dry skin out, so moisturisers are very important in this climatic conditions. Wear cosmetics in such a way that the skin looks natural. Eye shadow and lipstick which matches the clothes you are wearing in terms of colour, can then be applied. Always throw away the disposables, and never share make-up products with anyone else. Most importantly, is always remove make-up, before going to bed. Cleanse twice, first cleanse to remove the make-up, the second cleanse to remove dirt and sweat from the skin.

There is a wide variety of cosmetics, which can be purchased on the internet, giving good discounts. Keeping a record of the brand, type and where you bought the product, is a useful tip.

Information written and supplied by Christine Burden TalkAcne Web Page Manager

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Page updated: 17 February 2007