A Woman's Guide to Applying Makeup When You Have Acne

Most teenage women face the unique challenge of applying makeup when pimples are prominent. There is a system to it that most women can follow that works quite well. The first step is to gently wash the face with cold water and soap. Then dab the face dry, carefully. After the face is dry, apply an astringent, which should be a part of every woman's beauty supplies. Almost any drugstore will carry something suitable to use as astringent. If you have several blemishes, try using a concealer or stick cover-up. This goes right on the blemish and can be blended in to hide the acne. Next, carefully use your fingers to apply foundation to the blemished area. Then continue with the rest of the face, applying foundation with the fingers. After these steps are complete, continue with standard application of the makeup, and follow up with an application of face powder. The end result should be less noticeable pimples.

Of course this is using standard makeup and the downside is that some makeup can clog the pores. Consider changing brands to a makeup that does not clog pores and perhaps even to a makeup that is designed specifically for teenagers who have acne problems. Many times these makeup will come with complete instructions. This can make the job a lot easier. Also these makeup products often contain a topical ingredient that kills bacteria and helps to clean out pores. Look for non-allergic makeup that can help reduced the redness and reactions of skin irritations.

In addition, preparation for application of makeup can be easier with proper hygiene. Over washing the face can actually damage the skin, but carefully washing the face once or twice a day, especially with cold water and a mild soap or cleanser can do wonders. Also proper skin care using moisturizers and exfoliants can help keep the skin clear and healthy and help to keep the acne problem in check.

Many young women choose to forego the wearing of makeup when acne is causing problems, but many teenage young women find that the anxiety of teenage years is lessened when one can wear makeup. Covering up the unsightly blemishes can raise their self-esteem. There is really no right or wrong concerning wearing make up over acne. Every young woman facing the problem of acne must make her own choice as to what is best for her in this instance. Just as young men must decide if shaving is something they want to engage in during acne outbreaks, young women must deal with acne and makeup.

Consulting a specialist in makeup can often be a good place to start when determining the type of makeup best to use during these years. Many department stores have makeup specialists who receive specialized training in this area. Most make up associates are particularly empathetic to the plight of the teenage girl, since they were once teenage girls themselves. Many of these department stores hold special workshops and seminars on makeup application, and those that cater to teenagers often take up the subject of acne blemishes and both how to cover them up properly and how to fight acne with proper skin care.

There are also direct sales organizations that specialize in providing high quality cosmetics to women, and many of these companies, with good reputations gained from years in the business, have specially designed products that fight acne and make the process of applying makeup during an outbreak easier than it used to be. Finding a good makeup artist who can help you with this process is a big help with the problem of acne and makeup application.

One tip that can help teenage girls that enjoy wearing makeup is to try several special products and visit local make up counters at the malls and department stores. This can help young girls find make up and other facial products that are helpful. When visiting department stores to find a specific brand of make up, try several lines and colors. Also, build trust with the sales associate so that you can get better tips about makeup. Make sure they understand that you suffer from acne and are looking for products to lessen the severity of outbreaks.

Actions to Avoid When Clearing Up Acne

There are many good and bad points to keep in mind when clearing up acne. Most of the good tips are usually a matter of common sense. Eat right, exercise, take vitamins and keep fit. Your immune system will fight off acne if you keep it strong. If you use medication, either prescription or over the counter, follow the directions you are given. Stay out of the sun. Use proper hygiene.

The list of "don'ts" might not be as obvious, but it is equally important. To start with, don't pop pimples. Many well meaning people will tell you to do so, but do not try this method. The result can make the problem worse. You could wind up driving the bacteria deeper into the skin or spreading the bacteria to other parts of the skin. This can create an infection that can be painful and just make the acne problem bigger.

Next, and perhaps most important, do not assume that everyone who gives you advice knows how properly handle acne outbreaks. Many people are well intentioned, but wrong. They will tell you to avoid fried foods, avoid chocolate, and get out in the sun. However, this advice is not accurate and can often lead to bigger issues. Regarding chocolate and fried foods, remember that while good nutrition is important and recommended, as is regular exercise, there is no medical or scientific data that shows a relationship of any kind between diet and acne. The old chocolate and fried foods myth is just that, a myth. Listen to what others say, but remember that you can still eat the foods you enjoy and take care of your skin.

If you are a man and are having a bad acne outbreak, be careful shaving. You may want to shave in patches on your face, use an electric razor, or simply wait and shave after the outbreak dissipates. If you are a woman, be careful during makeup application. Use makeup that do not clog pores, and if possible switch to makeup that includes antibacterial topical ointments as ingredients. If possible take a short class or seminar to learn the proper way to apply makeup during an acne outbreak.

Next, despite what some people have told you, the sun does not cure acne. If you go out in the sun remember that it can be hard on your skin. Wear sunglasses, wear a hat, and wear a sun blocking lotion or ointment. Go to the pharmacy and find a sunscreen that does not clog pores and you will be much better off and happier.

Do not wash your face to excess. Once or twice a day, gentle washing with cold water, and a mild soap or cleanser is all you need. Excessive washing of the face can damage the skin and lead to more acne problems.

If you are using a topical ointment, continue to do so. Make sure that is helps to unclog pores and kills bacteria, and choose an ointment that bacteria do not grow resistant to. Bacteria in the pores collects with dead skin and oil and grows, creating pimples that can be quite painful. Taking steps to keep pores unclogged and keeping bacteria in check will lead to fewer pimples, and hopefully they won't last as long. You can't give rid of pimples entirely, but you can reduce the numbers.

Don't think that you are alone in this. All teenagers have acne problems. All adults were once teenagers and went through the same thing you are going through now. People understand, so do not be embarrassed. Many teenagers make the mistake of letting acne ruin their self-esteem. They become embarrassed to go to school or to visit friends because of the large zit on the nose. Just remember that everyone has had a large zit on their nose at one time or another, and don't worry about it.

Also it is important to remember that if the acne problem is becoming worse, don't hesitate to consult a professional. A dermatologist can help you if your acne is out of control. See a medical professional and get information on all of the treatments available. Hormone treatment, topical antibiotics, oral antibiotics and even alternative treatments like acupuncture, light therapy and topical applications like tea tree oil area available. Take advantage of the fact that professionals are available who understand your problem and if you need one, consult one.