The best types of cosmetics to use for oily or acne prone skin, are either oil-free cosmetics or non-comedogenic cosmetics. Oil-free cosmetics mean products that contain little or no ingredients such as isopropyl myristate, isopropyl esters, oleic acid, stearic acid, petrolatum and lanolin (especially acetylated lanolin, alcohol’s and lanolin fatty acids). The label on the cosmetic should state that it is oil-free. This implies that the product has been formulated with no oleaginous ingredients. These products would be appropriate for oily or acne prone skin. For a small number of people, acne may still flare up, to feel better about yourself, you may want to consider using cosmetics to cover up your acne. You should remember that not all skins react alike to the same cosmetic. Oily foundations give the best and longest coverage, but tend to make acne worse.
Suggestions:
- You can use water based creams or alcohol based liquids under your foundation
- Matte or semi-matte, oil-free foundations are the best choices
- Sheer or transparent foundations are usually recommended for comodonal (blackhead) acne
- Fuller foundations (opaque) may be needed for red lesions or scars
- You can mix loose transparent powders (of appropriate tone) into the foundation to give better and longer coverage
From: Cosmetics in Dermatology, Draelos 2nd Ed.