I have learned that in pursuit of clear skin, it is definitely worth avoiding some of the very chemically derived ingredients in typical makeups.
But then most of the natural ones seem to contain coconut oil, which is rather comedogenic. And this has me stumped now.
But anyway… let’s talk about which chemicals and comedogenic ingredients you definitely want to avoid in your makeup, and why.
First of all, let’s quickly talk about a few key terms before we move forward, so you can understand what these chemical ingredients do to the skin.
Dehydration
When your skin is healthy, it will lift dead skin cells up and out through the pore (in other words, exfoliating itself and making new skin and collagen).
However, many chemical products will dehydrate your skin (ie. not enough water in the skin layers). When your skin is dehydrated, it will start to trap the dead skin cells and the chemical junk in makeups and other skin care products inside your pores.
Increased Sensitivity
The chemicals can increase sensitivity in your skin, as well as thin your skin and remove the protective barrier. This means that your skin becomes very reactive to things you put on it.
In response to even the slightest external stimuli, it will start sending more blood flow to the area, making you red and blotchy, bright long lasting hyperpigmentation marks, bigger acne, etc.
Trapped Inflammation
This increased blood flow described above will get trapped within the pore, which is clogged with dead skin cells, oil, and chemical ingredients, and will simply stagnate there.
This blood flow stagnation will scar the collagen in the pore (collagen being our skin’s support structure), and the scar tissue will die and get trapped inside the pore alongside the dead skin cells.
This results in scarring, pitting, big pores, and lots of redness and breakouts. If scarring isn’t visible on the surface now, it will add up over time.
And if the pressure in the pore gets to be too much, it will become full on inflammation, rupture the pore and spread to the next pore, spreading the problem across your skin.
No Thanks…
Ok, so clearly we don’t want any of that stuff.
And if you’ve been using chemical makeups and creams and washes for years, your skin is likely already in the state described above, and now you need to work on repairing it.
So you need to
Stop using the ingredients that did this to you in the first place, and be extremely gentle with your skin
Use natural hydrating, healing ingredients to wash and moisturize (honey and an oil like jojoba or argan are perfect examples. If your skin is super sensitive, just use regular raw honey, not manuka, or skip it altogether and just use an oil to wash with), and use a healthier makeup alternative
Use papaya enzyme masks, which begin to gently eat away at the old dead skin cells and scar tissue, and helps your skin retrain itself to exfoliate on its own. These don’t necessarily need to be continued forever; just until your skin is functioning properly again.
Pair all this with healthy internal lifestyle changes (improving diet, lowering stress, etc) to clear your skin from the inside out too
Okay so let’s get to the ingredients in makeup that you want to be avoiding:
make the product and your skin feel silky and smooth
What they actually do:
Apparently silicones are one of the worst ingredients for dehydrating the skin and clogging the pores, which is the beginning of redness, pore scarring, and acne breakouts.
Petrochemicals
Names:
I fill up my car with this stuff
Paraffin wax, mineral oil, toluene, benzene, petrolatum, and anything that ends in “eth”, “decane”, or contains the words PEG (polyethylene glycol), DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (ethanolamine), TEA (triethanolamine), butyl, methyl, propyl, ethyl, ethanol
There are many different uses since there are so many different petroleum products, but often it’s to lock moisture against the skin or as a preservative
What they actually do:
Petroleum derived ingredients are pore clogging and work as a delivery agent, meaning they bring the other junk in the product deeper into the pores. They can also produce 1,4-dioxane, a carcinogen and neurotoxin.
Perfumes & Colorants
Names:
Fragrance, parfum, FD&C or D&C followed by a number, for example FD&C Red No. 6 or D&C Green No. 6
What they are supposed to do:
Make the product smell and look nice
What they actually do:
Perfumes and artificial colourants are well documented as being extremely irritating and they will increase skin sensitivity. Many of the dyes are pore clogging.
Also, what they actually use to make the fragrance or colourant doesn’t have to be disclosed. They can contain up to 200 different chemicals in themselves, and often these chemicals are petroleum products or phthalates.
Inhibits mold growth and extends shelf life of the product
What they actually do:
Are highly toxic and are disrupting to the endocrine system, aka. they’re hormone messer uppers. When you are trying to heal from acne, you don’t want that.
Phthalates
Names:
DEP (diethyl phthalate), DBP (di-n-butyl phthalate), BzBP (benzylbutyl phthalate)
What they are supposed to do:
homogenize the product and dissolve solid ingredients. Also used to carry fragrance
Alcohols can be comedogenic, cause a lot of irritation, dehydration, and free radical damage. They are more problematic the higher up they are on the ingredient list.
These are plastics; same thing used to make plastic nails. Will get trapped in the pores and clog them
Other Noteworthy Bad Guys
Coconut oil and capric/caprylic triglycerides – Whole coconut oil (Coco Nucifera) is considered to be highly comedogenic. Capric/caprylic triglycerides (also known as fractionated coconut oil) has had the pore clogging part of the oil removed, so it is not considered comedogenic
Talc – dehydrating to most skin types, which will lead to your skin starting to trap and clog
Bismuth oxychloride – often in powder makeup… the crystals are sharp, irritating, and can get stuck in pores. Linked to cystic acne.
Oxybenzone – ingredient in chemical sunscreens.. is carcinogenic, causes free radical damage, and increases photosensitivity
Silica and mica are ingredients that are usually ok but can potentially be irritating for some.
In addition to everything listed above, here are more possible pore clogging (aka comedogenic) or irritating ingredients that you should also watch out for if you have problem skin:
Moderate to Highly Comedogenic or Irritating Skin Care Ingredients:
acetylated lanolin
algae extract
algin
benzoic acid
cajeput oil
carrageenan
cetyl acetate
coal tar
cocoa butter
coconut butter
colloidal sulfur
corn oil
cotton aws oil
cottonseed oil
crisco
decyl oleate
dioctyl succinate
glyceryl stearate SE (must have SE after)
glyceryl-3-disostearate (must have 3 in it)
hydrogenated vegetable oil
anything starting with iso (ex. isocetyl stearate, isopropyl myristate, isostearyl acid)
lanolic acid
laureth 4
lauric acid
linseed oil
mink oil
myreth 3 myrstate
myristic acid
myristyl lactate,
myristyl myristate
octyl palmitate,
octyl stearate
oleic acid
oleth-3
PG monostearate
polyglyceryl-3-disostearate (with the 3)
potassium chloride
PPG 2 myristyl propionate
red algae
shark liver oil
table salt (sodium chloride)
sodium lauryl and laureth sulfate
solulan 16
sorbitan oleate
sorbitan sesquinoleate
soybean oil
steareth 10
stearic acid tea
stearyl heptanoate
sulfated castor oil (not regular castor oil)
sulfated jojoba oil (not regular jojoba oil)
syearyl heptanoate
wheat germ glyceride
wheat germ oil
xylene
Deciphering the Ingredients List…
What IS this junk?
So this article obviously didn’t cover every single chemical or ingredient out there… when you look at product ingredient lists, you will find a lot of big words that you aren’t sure about.
And if you try to ask me, I am not going to necessarily know off the top of my head either!
What makes it extra confusing to decipher is that not every ingredient with a big confusing name is bad, because they are often listed in their latin or scientific names. For example, tocopheral-acetate is actually just Vitamin E.
I suggest that if you are thinking about buying a makeup or any cosmetic product, first compare it to this article. If it has a ton of the bad guys right off the bat, throw it aside.
If you find a promising one, then go through every ingredient you don’t know about and google it.
Try to get a feel for what it is, whether it’s considered pore clogging, toxic, or otherwise, and go from there.
Also keep in mind that ingredients are always listed with the highest quantity first, and goes down in order to the smallest amount. So the first ingredient listed is the main ingredient with the highest quantity in the product.
If you come across a “baddie” ingredient it’s going to be less of a big deal if it’s at the end of the list (ex. 0.05% of the whole product), rather than if it’s close to the top (ex. 50% of the whole product).
A Note on Mineral Powder Makeups
Loose, powdery, mineral makeups are often considered a good choice for acne prone skin, and often they are…
The good thing about powdery mineral makeup is that they are the least likely to contain any harmful or pore clogging ingredients, although sometimes people find the minerals irritating.
However, according to Melissa Armstrong (who I learned much of this information on makeup ingredients from), they do not have any natural hydrators in them like the liquids do (ie. like carrier oils).
So sometimes they can absorb too much moisture from your skin, and result in it becoming dehydrated. Especially if they contain clays, like kaolin, which are very absorbant.
According to her, the skin being dehydrated is the first step to it starting to trap dead skin cells and old product, which leads to clogging, redness, and breaking out.
So mineral makeup can be a good choice, but if you find your mineral makeup is drying out your skin, it might not be the best choice.
And the week after that, we’ll hopefully get to the part where we find some makeup brands that are actually ok to wear, although so far the search has proven to be frustrating!
If you think I’ve missed an obvious “bad guy” makeup ingredient that should be included in this list, then let me know in the comments below!
TRACY RAFTL
Blog author Tracy Raftl used to have severe acne — now she teaches thousands of women how to take back control of their skin through natural, holistic, and mind-body methods.
Hi friend, today we’re going to explore an effective, permanent method of acne scar removal. Called dermarolling. In which the tool you use soooorta looks like
Uh, crisis on the planet make-up…I’m like, what should I wear now? This article nearly broke my heart….all these years that I’ve used make-up (and used a lot of money)…I’ve been only damaging my skin? 🙁
By the way, I noticed from the list, many common facial moisture creams have the same ingredients (especially petrolatum). I think it is much easier to find natural moisturisers than natural make-up….So if I at least change my moisturiser or for example use only pure jojoba oil + ordinary make-up….that’s already 50% less harmful chemicals? At least some improvement 😀
Also, I used to think, natural products=automatically better for skin (and acne). But many natural facial care products, even those that are certified organic products have denaturated alcohol in them, very high on the ingredients list (I think it serves as to preserve the product itself, so that it will not go rancid etc.) Natural products also often have coconut oil, like you said. Now I’m very confused what is good and what is not!
I believe everything that Melissa said but I also wonder….for years I have had very persistent acne and blocked pores in my chest/breast area. Obviously I don’t use make-up in that area…and actually no products at all, I usually wash this area only with water. So it’s “au naturel” and I still have this problem…I don’t understand. (By the way, Estroblock pro is the only thing that has ever helped with that! While using it, skin cleared completely!)
Hi Tuulia – yeah it sucks now that I’ve written it all out! I know it’s why I’ve avoided really truly looking at this subject all these years.
And obviously it’s not black and white… many people still get clear or significantly reduce their acne while using makeup just from making lifestyle changes. Changing up your skin care is only one part of a larger holistic puzzle (which is why you might still get acne on your chest despite not using any makeup there). I still managed to clear up my skin pretty well even though I used really bad chemical makeup on my skin when it was bad (I only used it on spots, but when my skin was covered in spots… well, that was a lot of makeup…)
But knowledge is power and the fact is, if it’s keeping your skin from being the healthy, acne free, even, dewy, glowy that you want, then wouldn’t you rather know? And try to and find a healthier makeup / skin care option for the long term? Even if it’s super annoying…. believe me, I know it’s annoying. There seem to be few perfect options, especially for makeup as you say.
Anyway…. I am going to be diving into researching makeups to try and find some ‘perfect’ options, we’ll see how my hunt goes and keep your eyes peeled for that blog post that is coming up. I know a blog post like this one is so depressing when you aren’t given any better options, so just hold tight.
And yes – the fact is, I expect that I probably won’t be able to find many perfect ones. But if there are ones that have a couple bad ingredients as the last in the list….. yes, it’s going to be FAR better than one that’s just littered with silicones and petroleum products. And yes, all these bad ingredients are in all the other skin care products too including moisturizers. Moisturizers may even be worse since they are meant to be absorbed into the skin, vs makeup that is meant to sit on top. Luckily you are right – it’s far easier to find healthy moisturizer options (like oils).
So yes – anything you can do to reduce the amount of these chemicals is going to be beneficial to your skin. Obviously no skin makeup would be the best option, but that’s also not a good option because it’s too stressful for the majority of acne sufferers… and well, stress is also not good for the skin!
Hi Tracy, Thanks for support! 🙂 I also…wouldn’t want to go without make-up. For example, acne or not, especially in winter, when it’s very cold…I don’t like the “naked” feeling on skin! Yes, I agree, facial and body moisturisers are probably even worse, because they cover larger areas of the body… Looking forward to find my “perfect match” natural make-up!! 🙂
If you really want to wear makeup without irritation, I recommend Jane Iredale’s Pure Pressed Powder Bade mineral powder foundation – I’ve used it for (6) years on my sensitive, acne-prone skin. It doesn’t contain talc or bismuth oxychloride, it has SPF 20, and it has really great buildable coverage. It stays on really nicely over argan oil or sunscreen, and if worn over actual foundation it makes the skin look FLAWLESS.
It’s pricey, but worth it. I go through one pot every 3+ months, and I use the blush from the same brand too – the no talc situation makes a HUGE difference.
Do you feel that the Algae and Plankton extracts in the powder are comedogenic in any way? I’ve heard great reviews about Jane Iredale powder as well but wasn’t sure why some people say it has has highly comedogenic ingredients. What is your take on it? Thanks!
Hey I had a question. I looked at my mosturizer I use everyday and found some ingredients I shouldn’t put on my face. I have oily and acne prone skin. I only wash my face with hemp oil. What mosturizer would you recommend that doesn’t have these ingredients?
Hi Stephanie, you don’t need to use anything except oil! It’s the perfect moisturizer. If you are already cleansing with it, then that’s awesome! Just add more hemp oil once you’re done washing. If you feel like that isn’t moisturizing enough, you can switch to a more moisturizing oil like argan
Makeup: I have been using 100PercentPure’s Water Foundation with great success! I’d be happy to hear of any other liquid foundation that people have liked, since 100Percent only carries one safe option in my fair shade. ALSO, Purely Cosmetics mineral powder offers three types: 1) Pure Mineral, 2) Pure Mineral with addition of Silk, and 3) Skin Smoothing. Are any of these three suitable for acne prone?
Sunscreen: I am still in need of that perfect sunscreen that does not break me out, or make my sensitive skin itch at the thought of it touching my skin! COOLA Unscented SPF 30 seems to be the only one so far that I can find…… any suggestions? I am looking for a spray so I can use it repeatedly throughout the day, and easily over my face makeup too. Someone suggested Australian Gold’s Botanical Natural Spray but that ingredient list seemed too iffy.
Any advice or suggestions from you or the crowd would be lovely. 🙂 Thanks!
Hi Shannon — are you in Australia? Try this one from Life Basics: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/natural-sunscreen/1093974/life-basics-spf-30-all-natural.html Honestly that’s a really good point about wanting a spray sunscreen, which solves the whole makeup & reapplying sunscreen problem. I don’t know why I’ve never thought about that being a solution — with that being said, I don’t know of any natural acne safe ones that are also sprays. My search begins.
In reference to breakouts on your chest and or back areas, double check your shampoos/conditioners. The demethicones are my kryptonite and they are often found in shampoos/conditioners usually the second or third ingredient, when you are rinsing your hair that all flows down your body, this is what I have noticed, I will even breakout along my hair line.
If you are getting acne on your chest and back. Try not using fabric softener or detergent that has perfume. Try Arm and Hammer free of perfumes and don’t use fabric softener anymore if you do. Also, check the ingredients on your shampoo/conditioner other face products like your face cleanser too for clogging ingredients. Once, I did all of the above…I cleared up in a week after 10 years of an acne battle.
I suffer from skin inflammation and this is just so informative. I have very slight inflammation on my cheeks. The skin has kind of bumped up and turned red. Could you recommend a specific natural remedy for that ? Thanks..
Hi Nikita! Glad you found this helpful… refer back to this part of the article for help with the cheek inflammation, this is what I would suggest:
– Stop using the ingredients that did this to you in the first place, and be extremely gentle with your skin
– Use natural hydrating, healing ingredients to wash and moisturize (honey and an oil like jojoba or argan are perfect examples. If your skin is super sensitive, just use regular raw honey, not manuka, or skip it altogether and just use an oil to wash with), and use a healthier makeup alternative
– Use papaya enzyme masks, which begin to gently eat away at the old dead skin cells and scar tissue, and helps your skin retrain itself to exfoliate on its own. These don’t necessarily need to be continued forever; just until your skin is functioning properly again.
– Pair all this with healthy internal lifestyle changes (improving diet, lowering stress, etc) to clear your skin from the inside out too
I just want to say that you have really good advice that is a lot better than what most doctors and dermatologists would suggest. For the past year, I’ve been following that very regimen of cleansing with raw honey and using argan oil to moisturize along with making several positive changes within my diet. I have seen a vast Improvement in my skin.?????
Hi Tracy Another great, informative post! I’ve been doing a modified caveman regimen with water only rinsing in the evenings for about three weeks and no makeup. My skin has drastically improved. I’m kind of shocked, but not really because my body knows how to heal itself when left alone. Anyways, my initial problem was severely dehydrated skin which led me to every skin issue you just described. All of it from dehydration! I’ve realized that my skin’s own sebum is its best moisturizer. I do have one question for you however. I seem to be getting some of the dead skin flakes on what used to be my most irritated places…cheeks and sides of chin. Is this part of the healing process and should I not remove it with water in the evenings? Thanks for all your hard work and knowledge! Really has changed my life.
Hi Megan, yes it is part of the healing process, it’s to be expected that the skin will get all flakey. Eventually this will go away or at least die down a lot so that the flakey skin isn’t noticeable. I don’t really know if it’s beneficial or not to leave it there in the initial stages… if irritation is a big issue for you, I would think just leaving it there would be better than trying to remove it
Awesome post Tracy! I’ve started avoiding most makeup and most creams out there, but luckily do have a few awesome products that I can wear without irritation when I have to look a little ‘extra’! 🙂
My skin has improved DRASTICALLY after I gave up grains – it was a huge change to make, but totally worth it. I feel sooooo much better!
Thanks Olena! Did you only recently give up grains altogether? I tried a period of grain free but didn’t see much of a difference… it’s amazing how different everyone is with what ‘their thing’ is when it comes to their skin. It’s pretty exciting to find something that definitely makes a difference for your skin and health, even if it’s a tough switch
Hey Tracy! I’ve been off grains since the beginning of April. I went on the Whole30 and loved it – no added sugar, no dairy, no legumes, no grains. My skin was detoxing hardcore for the first two months! It takes time to see a result after quitting grains because they often cause a bunch of vitamin deficiencies and a ton of inflammation in the system.
And then started eating a ton more raw veggies, introduced a 60 billion bifido probiotic, a ton of magnesium, zinc, and iron, drink 3-4 litres of water a day and my skin is glowing. I’ve also been off benzoyl peroxide for over a month and only see an improvement. No more breakouts, just a few blackheads here and there.
I noticed worse skin when I ate steamed veggies (I ate steamed veggies for like a month) with every meal, and amazing skin with raw veggies – this is a big lesson in nutrient absorbtion!
Truthfully, it’s actually been easier to make the change than I thought. I love the way I eat, I get less cravings (if none at all) because I’m no longer addicted to sugar or processed carbs! It’s amazing! I’ve stopped overeating, I have more energy, I sleep super well! Also preparing meals is simpler since there’s less cooking. I just pop chicken or fish in the oven, then throw some raw veggies on a plate and donezo! 🙂
Hello! Great post I should say,because I didn’t have any idea how many things in products are not good at all. So I have some questions about products,which seems to be natural,but I am not sure if it is safe to use when I have sensitive acne prone skin. One product which I am thinking to buy but still concerned contains: Achillea millefolium (yarrow) Distillate, Salix Alba Bark Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate. Could you please tell me what you think,it is good to use? I also struggling finding the right skin oil. I have oil,which contains: Vitis Vinifera Seed,Persea Gratissima,Simmondsia Chinesis(Jojoba oil),Tocopherol(Vitamin E),Rosmarinus Officinalis,Pelargonium Graveoens,Citral,Geraniol,Limonene and Linalool. Maybe pure oil is still better to use than oil with those ingrediences? Thanks in advance!
And what is the first product with yarrow and white willow bark? High amount preservation. I am not understanding what that could be for.
They are not using the basic names which would be confusing or fancy sounding to most people.
The oil is okay. But if you are sensitized or sensitive you may want to only begin with one or two oils as opposed to that lengthy list of essential oils.
Hi tracy thanks for the very hard work. Please which whitening product will suit for my prone skin ? And plx suggest the best face wash for my oily skin .
I just want to cry after reading this. Even the products that are supposed to be for sensitive acne prone skin have most of these ingredients. I am so confused on what to use anymore. : ( I have sensitive acne prone yet tends to be dehydrated skin. Can you recommend a night moisturizer that I can use over acne products?
So after reading the above lists I am totally confused now what should I use to moisturize my acne prone skin. Because after so many seraches I found one product but it has all the above listed ingredients. I am very much fed up with my acnes. Can anyone please help me 🙁
Hi Thanks for the info.. I am struggling with adult acne since teenage.. tried every products and treatments but still have hyperpigmentation marks. I am on low dose antibiotics and topical tretinoin which is helping. I use cerave hydrating cleanser and cetaphil moisturizing lotion. I am also using mac oil control lotion and bare minerals make-up which I think making my skin more oily. Can you please suggest me good moisturiser and make-up? I really want to change my skin care routine and want to find something more natural. Thanks
Hi I have recently switched to Young living face and makeup products. I wanted to know if the mineral powder was causing more breakouts. The key ingredients are Boron nitride, Lauroyl lysine, and Aspen bark extract. Other ingredients are Mica, Boron nitride, Lauroyl lysine, Populus tremuloides bark extract, Kaolin clay, Silica. Thanks Mallory
I would like to ask couple of questions regarding some of the “eco-friendly” make-up products I thought were safe and healthy to use. I would greatly appreciate your reply and feedback.
What do you think of Tarte under eye corrector?! Following are the ingredients:
Hi Sal — the first one doesn’t look as bad, but I see a few nasties. The second one is a no no no! Full of silicones that may not “clog” pores or appear to cause breakouts right away, but do damage the layers of skin over time leading to more dysfunction
Thank you so much for your reply! I really appreciate it.
I have one last question: I have been hearing a lot about this French skin care brand Biologique Recherche and their magical lotion p50. A lot of women are talking about its beautiful results and benefits they are seeing on their skin. These are the ingredients found in this product, would you recommend?
Hello, am based in UK and was looking for a good mascara. Lotzzzzz of the organic and “healthy ” ones contain alcohol and silica(((( I have found this one odylique. (https://www.odylique.co.uk/organic-mascaras-sensitive-eyes.html) Here are the ingredients:
Ingredients: Aqua, Alcohol*, Cera alba*, Calendula officinalis flower extract*, Acacia Senegal gum*, Theobroma cacao seed butter*, Euphorbia cerifera cera*, Lecithin, Sodium olivate*, Helianthus annus seed cera, Aloe barbadensis leaf juice powder*, Hippophae rhamnoides fruit extract*, Lavandula hybrida oil*, Linalool (from the organic essential oil)*. May contain +/- CI 77007, CI 77491, CI 77499 + Silica. **Ecocert-approved colour pigments (occur naturally as rocks or semi-precious stones)
Plain English: Aloe vera juice*, Tincture of Calendula*, Shea butter*x, Green clay, Beeswax*, Lecithin, Saponified olive oil*, Sunflower wax, Acacia gum*, Sea buckthorn extract*, May contain** +/- CI 77007, CI 77491, CI 77499 Silica
*Organically grown/produced (minimum 76%). **Ecocert/Cosmos approved high purity mineral pigments free from lead, mercury, arsenic and other heavy metal contaminants.
It looks good! Honestly, I’m not AS concerned about mascara — in terms of acne, it’s more important to worry about what you are putting directly on your acne prone areas. And then get mostly chemical free stuff for the rest, but I don’t think you have to be as concerned about a little alcohol or silica in mascara
Hi! I just saw this informative site and I am looking for a makeup that won’t damage my face any further. I have acne but it’s pretty much more on red marks and hyperpigmentation, comedones… as much as I don’t want to apply makeup- I need it when working. So I hope you could help me sort out the ingredients of the powder that interests me.
Here they are: mica, titanium dioxide (CI 77891), silica,caprylic/capric triglyceride (coconut oil-derived), zinc oxide (CI 77947), polyglyceryl-3 laurate (vegetable-derived), magnesium stearate (vegetable-derived), Oryza sativa (rice) powder, lauroyl lysine (amino acid derived), glyceryl caprylate (coconut oil, palm oil and glycerine-derived), tocopherol (vitamin E), farnesol, linalool (+/-): iron oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499)
Is Mirabella an okay product? I need help with foundation. I have been struggling with adult acne for years! I clean and use many productions for cleaning my skin, but am thinking it might be my foundation that is making this difficult! HELP.
Hi Tracy, I am pulling my hair out trying to find a moisturizer that avoids these ingredients that suits my skin. I tried switching to Lapis face oil from Herbivore, but my skin is reacting poorly to it, almost cystic like acne with small bumps on my forehead that aren’t exactly white heads. Any suggestions for a daily moisturizer?
Check out my DIY facial moisturizer recipe (google it) —- at basic — use a combo of aloe and a small amount of glycerin, apply to wet skin, then apply one drop of an oil before it dries and then you’re done
I had to stop using typical moisturizers and I now only use Shomei Organic Skincare Vitamin C elixir, and also their pure Hyaluronic Acid. Amazing improvement just after two weeks when I switched. Amazing moisture and NO more acne. I switched to Acure Organics (Volume formula specifically, because of ingredients) shampoo/conditioner so I wouldn’t break out when my hair touched my face. For hand and body – Out Of Africa pure unrefined Shea Butter (unscented, or I use with vanilla oil). Makeup foundation – “100% Pure” is the brand name and they have only two at this time suited for acne-prone skin…. water foundation which is full coverage but I mix a half pump with a full pump of hyaluronic acid and it’s less heavy. The other foundation is called second skin and it appears very watery but it’s really beautiful on the skin and lasts a very long time. They discontinued the very fairest shade in that formula so I can no longer purchase anymore but I have some left and I still love it. I haven’t found a body wash or soap that I’m completely in love with but I currently use palmers skin success with sulfur in it and it’s a white bar of soap. That’s as best as I can find for my whole body until I do some more searching but all my acne is gone. I even use that vitamin C serum elixir in my hair for blow dry styling
I’ve been on this journey of switching all skincare and makeup to clean, non toxic options for the last 6+months. Started oil cleansing, using essential oils and honey face wash 3 months or so ago, totally noticed decreased oil and breakouts. Next was switching makeup. HARD. Have tried so many and either they don’t have enough coverage or my skin would be itchy and irritated. For the last 2 weeks I’ve been using Well People; their tinted moisturizer, stick foundation and face oil. I thought my skin was ok with it, but these last few weeks it’s freaked out at the same time. However my diet has been mega off so maybe that’s it? UGH i dunno. What are your thoughts on the ingredients?
I see you listed shark liver oil, but what about squalene and squalane from plant based sources? I’ve read that squalane is better for your skin since it’s hydrogenated and that makes it less greasy as well.
I haven’t really done any experimentation with squalene, but I have actually heard really good things about it — yes, probably not the kind of shark livers. It’s on my “try that out one day” list 😉
i am 33 years old. i have acne since the age of 18 years. it was very bad when i was 23-24 years old as i used lot of wrong products/cosmetics on my face.
finally i went to my beautician who does skin treatments too and with the help of chemical peels and her own company manufactured products i was able to get control of my acne completely. i did not have the best skin but at least it was acne and pimple free.
the products i was using for the last six years were:
along with the above i was using any regular shampoo for washing my hair and conditioner for conditioning.
i was doing absolutely okay (i was satisfied with the results- had no acne/pimples/whiteheads) for last six years.
in February this year i.e., 2018 i was having hair fall so i went to a dermatologist and she told me to use the following:- 1. Densita Serum, 2. Anaphase Shampoo, 3. Renocia conditioner. alongwith Tablet Follihair for one month.
this was the biggest mistake i ever made. after using the above products- shampoo, conditioner and serum for just one month my whole face was filled with small bumps, acne and black heads, clogged pores…oilyness
since then i stopped using her products and went back to my beautician….she gave me the same treatment of chemical peels…however, i did not see much results this time….now i have just stopped using any treatment apart from my earlier products mentioned above and started a good plant based diet.
now in you article you have said that paraben, TEA, are bad for skin and can clog pores. however, before my February disaster i was using the above mentioned products for six years with no acne at all and my skin had actually stabilized.
please suggest what should i do. i am petrified of trying anything new on my face. i do not wear make up.
I have been wondering about this BB cream – it’s amazing on my skin and I have used other products from this brand which seem to be very good but Im slightly unsure about this one as I an spot a silicone in there but not that many ingredients in total, what are you thougths?
Hi Tracy! I am also on the journey of finding a makeup brand that doesn’t cause breakouts–Omiana and Rejuva minerals are the ones I have found that have the least irritating ingredients for me (compared to the drying effects of Lily Lolo etc.) Although, Rejuva uses Boron Nitride. Do you know of anyone who has problems with it? I know it can be drying, but I am having a hard time finding information about its comedogenic possibilities… Omiana might just be a better choice (Still has kaolin, but I mean…at this point I can’t find anything with fewer ingredients unless someone was literally just using rice powder and pigment from an organic potato or something. jk! What a journey.) Also, I am weirdly having a lot of success with Raw Shea Butter on my face (I have heard it is comedogenic for some)…curious if anyone else is having success with it. Argan is probably better, but the Shea has been really healing for me and I’m one of the super sensitive ones.
Hi!! Thank you SOOOO much for this article!!! I use face sheet masks every night! And i have no idea which ingredients are good or bad!! Do you have any brands for face masks to recommend??
Hi Tracy, do you know any good compact sunprotector that acts as a mattifier? I have very oly skin and liquid sunprotectors leave a very greasy feeling.
Hi Tracy ..you said that u r still finding a sunscreen spray with physical filters ..well I know an Indian brand called mom’s and world kids sunscreen spray .it uses fewer chemicals and are free from harmful ingredients ..do have a look ..all the ingredients are ok except two sunscreen ingredient namely octocrylene and octinoxate ..
Tracy- I am a 62 yrs young man and have had acne problems since I was as teen. I’m still trying to find a safe, oil-free (all the above ingredients free) face lotion/gel that won’t break my skin out. I do have sensitive skin probably due to all the stuff I’ve tried on my face over the years. Could you please recommend a few products for me?
When your skin is healthy, it will lift dead skin cells up and out through the pore (in other words, exfoliating itself and making new skin and collagen).
The chemicals can increase sensitivity in your skin, as well as thin your skin and remove the protective barrier. This means that your skin becomes very reactive to things you put on it.
This increased blood flow described above will get trapped within the pore, which is clogged with dead skin cells, oil, and chemical ingredients, and will simply stagnate there.
Fragrance, parfum, FD&C or D&C followed by a number, for example FD&C Red No. 6 or D&C Green No. 6
methylparaben, propylparaben, ethylparaben, butylparaben
DEP (diethyl phthalate), DBP (di-n-butyl phthalate), BzBP (benzylbutyl phthalate)
Loose, powdery, mineral makeups are often considered a good choice for acne prone skin, and often they are…
66 Responses
Hi Tracy!
Great article!
Uh, crisis on the planet make-up…I’m like, what should I wear now?
This article nearly broke my heart….all these years that I’ve used make-up (and used a lot of money)…I’ve been only damaging my skin? 🙁
By the way, I noticed from the list, many common facial moisture creams have the same ingredients (especially petrolatum). I think it is much easier to find natural moisturisers than natural make-up….So if I at least change my moisturiser or for example use only pure jojoba oil + ordinary make-up….that’s already 50% less harmful chemicals? At least some improvement 😀
Also, I used to think, natural products=automatically better for skin (and acne). But many natural facial care products, even those that are certified organic products have denaturated alcohol in them, very high on the ingredients list (I think it serves as to preserve the product itself, so that it will not go rancid etc.) Natural products also often have coconut oil, like you said. Now I’m very confused what is good and what is not!
I believe everything that Melissa said but I also wonder….for years I have had very persistent acne and blocked pores in my chest/breast area. Obviously I don’t use make-up in that area…and actually no products at all, I usually wash this area only with water. So it’s “au naturel” and I still have this problem…I don’t understand. (By the way, Estroblock pro is the only thing that has ever helped with that! While using it, skin cleared completely!)
Hi Tuulia – yeah it sucks now that I’ve written it all out! I know it’s why I’ve avoided really truly looking at this subject all these years.
And obviously it’s not black and white… many people still get clear or significantly reduce their acne while using makeup just from making lifestyle changes. Changing up your skin care is only one part of a larger holistic puzzle (which is why you might still get acne on your chest despite not using any makeup there). I still managed to clear up my skin pretty well even though I used really bad chemical makeup on my skin when it was bad (I only used it on spots, but when my skin was covered in spots… well, that was a lot of makeup…)
But knowledge is power and the fact is, if it’s keeping your skin from being the healthy, acne free, even, dewy, glowy that you want, then wouldn’t you rather know? And try to and find a healthier makeup / skin care option for the long term? Even if it’s super annoying…. believe me, I know it’s annoying. There seem to be few perfect options, especially for makeup as you say.
Anyway…. I am going to be diving into researching makeups to try and find some ‘perfect’ options, we’ll see how my hunt goes and keep your eyes peeled for that blog post that is coming up. I know a blog post like this one is so depressing when you aren’t given any better options, so just hold tight.
And yes – the fact is, I expect that I probably won’t be able to find many perfect ones. But if there are ones that have a couple bad ingredients as the last in the list….. yes, it’s going to be FAR better than one that’s just littered with silicones and petroleum products. And yes, all these bad ingredients are in all the other skin care products too including moisturizers. Moisturizers may even be worse since they are meant to be absorbed into the skin, vs makeup that is meant to sit on top. Luckily you are right – it’s far easier to find healthy moisturizer options (like oils).
So yes – anything you can do to reduce the amount of these chemicals is going to be beneficial to your skin. Obviously no skin makeup would be the best option, but that’s also not a good option because it’s too stressful for the majority of acne sufferers… and well, stress is also not good for the skin!
Hi Tracy,
Thanks for support! 🙂
I also…wouldn’t want to go without make-up. For example, acne or not, especially in winter, when it’s very cold…I don’t like the “naked” feeling on skin!
Yes, I agree, facial and body moisturisers are probably even worse, because they cover larger areas of the body…
Looking forward to find my “perfect match” natural make-up!! 🙂
If you really want to wear makeup without irritation, I recommend Jane Iredale’s Pure Pressed Powder Bade mineral powder foundation – I’ve used it for (6) years on my sensitive, acne-prone skin. It doesn’t contain talc or bismuth oxychloride, it has SPF 20, and it has really great buildable coverage. It stays on really nicely over argan oil or sunscreen, and if worn over actual foundation it makes the skin look FLAWLESS.
It’s pricey, but worth it. I go through one pot every 3+ months, and I use the blush from the same brand too – the no talc situation makes a HUGE difference.
Love,
Olena
Hi Olena,
Do you feel that the Algae and Plankton extracts in the powder are comedogenic in any way? I’ve heard great reviews about Jane Iredale powder as well but wasn’t sure why some people say it has has highly comedogenic ingredients. What is your take on it? Thanks!
Hey I had a question. I looked at my mosturizer I use everyday and found some ingredients I shouldn’t put on my face. I have oily and acne prone skin. I only wash my face with hemp oil. What mosturizer would you recommend that doesn’t have these ingredients?
Hi Stephanie, you don’t need to use anything except oil! It’s the perfect moisturizer. If you are already cleansing with it, then that’s awesome! Just add more hemp oil once you’re done washing. If you feel like that isn’t moisturizing enough, you can switch to a more moisturizing oil like argan
Makeup, Soap and Sunscreen wonders?!
Makeup: I have been using 100PercentPure’s Water Foundation with great success! I’d be happy to hear of any other liquid foundation that people have liked, since 100Percent only carries one safe option in my fair shade.
ALSO, Purely Cosmetics mineral powder offers three types: 1) Pure Mineral, 2) Pure Mineral with addition of Silk, and 3) Skin Smoothing. Are any of these three suitable for acne prone?
Sunscreen: I am still in need of that perfect sunscreen that does not break me out, or make my sensitive skin itch at the thought of it touching my skin! COOLA Unscented SPF 30 seems to be the only one so far that I can find…… any suggestions? I am looking for a spray so I can use it repeatedly throughout the day, and easily over my face makeup too. Someone suggested Australian Gold’s Botanical Natural Spray but that ingredient list seemed too iffy.
Any advice or suggestions from you or the crowd would be lovely. 🙂 Thanks!
Hi Shannon — are you in Australia? Try this one from Life Basics: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/natural-sunscreen/1093974/life-basics-spf-30-all-natural.html
Honestly that’s a really good point about wanting a spray sunscreen, which solves the whole makeup & reapplying sunscreen problem. I don’t know why I’ve never thought about that being a solution — with that being said, I don’t know of any natural acne safe ones that are also sprays. My search begins.
Hi Tuulia
In reference to breakouts on your chest and or back areas, double check your shampoos/conditioners. The demethicones are my kryptonite and they are often found in shampoos/conditioners usually the second or third ingredient, when you are rinsing your hair that all flows down your body, this is what I have noticed, I will even breakout along my hair line.
If you are getting acne on your chest and back. Try not using fabric softener or detergent that has perfume. Try Arm and Hammer free of perfumes and don’t use fabric softener anymore if you do. Also, check the ingredients on your shampoo/conditioner other face products like your face cleanser too for clogging ingredients. Once, I did all of the above…I cleared up in a week after 10 years of an acne battle.
I suffer from skin inflammation and this is just so informative. I have very slight inflammation on my cheeks. The skin has kind of bumped up and turned red. Could you recommend a specific natural remedy for that ? Thanks..
Hi Nikita! Glad you found this helpful… refer back to this part of the article for help with the cheek inflammation, this is what I would suggest:
– Stop using the ingredients that did this to you in the first place, and be extremely gentle with your skin
– Use natural hydrating, healing ingredients to wash and moisturize (honey and an oil like jojoba or argan are perfect examples. If your skin is super sensitive, just use regular raw honey, not manuka, or skip it altogether and just use an oil to wash with), and use a healthier makeup alternative
– Use papaya enzyme masks, which begin to gently eat away at the old dead skin cells and scar tissue, and helps your skin retrain itself to exfoliate on its own. These don’t necessarily need to be continued forever; just until your skin is functioning properly again.
– Pair all this with healthy internal lifestyle changes (improving diet, lowering stress, etc) to clear your skin from the inside out too
I just want to say that you have really good advice that is a lot better than what most doctors and dermatologists would suggest. For the past year, I’ve been following that very regimen of cleansing with raw honey and using argan oil to moisturize along with making several positive changes within my diet. I have seen a vast Improvement in my skin.?????
Christina, that is rad news. Thanks for sharing!! Very happy for you <3
Hi Tracy
Another great, informative post! I’ve been doing a modified caveman regimen with water only rinsing in the evenings for about three weeks and no makeup. My skin has drastically improved. I’m kind of shocked, but not really because my body knows how to heal itself when left alone. Anyways, my initial problem was severely dehydrated skin which led me to every skin issue you just described. All of it from dehydration! I’ve realized that my skin’s own sebum is its best moisturizer. I do have one question for you however. I seem to be getting some of the dead skin flakes on what used to be my most irritated places…cheeks and sides of chin. Is this part of the healing process and should I not remove it with water in the evenings? Thanks for all your hard work and knowledge! Really has changed my life.
Hi Megan, yes it is part of the healing process, it’s to be expected that the skin will get all flakey. Eventually this will go away or at least die down a lot so that the flakey skin isn’t noticeable. I don’t really know if it’s beneficial or not to leave it there in the initial stages… if irritation is a big issue for you, I would think just leaving it there would be better than trying to remove it
Flaking on top of the skin or tiny white specks lifting up out of the pore but remaining on the surface?
Youngevity is great too!
Awesome post Tracy! I’ve started avoiding most makeup and most creams out there, but luckily do have a few awesome products that I can wear without irritation when I have to look a little ‘extra’! 🙂
My skin has improved DRASTICALLY after I gave up grains – it was a huge change to make, but totally worth it. I feel sooooo much better!
Thanks Olena! Did you only recently give up grains altogether? I tried a period of grain free but didn’t see much of a difference… it’s amazing how different everyone is with what ‘their thing’ is when it comes to their skin. It’s pretty exciting to find something that definitely makes a difference for your skin and health, even if it’s a tough switch
Hey Tracy!
I’ve been off grains since the beginning of April. I went on the Whole30 and loved it – no added sugar, no dairy, no legumes, no grains. My skin was detoxing hardcore for the first two months! It takes time to see a result after quitting grains because they often cause a bunch of vitamin deficiencies and a ton of inflammation in the system.
And then started eating a ton more raw veggies, introduced a 60 billion bifido probiotic, a ton of magnesium, zinc, and iron, drink 3-4 litres of water a day and my skin is glowing. I’ve also been off benzoyl peroxide for over a month and only see an improvement. No more breakouts, just a few blackheads here and there.
I noticed worse skin when I ate steamed veggies (I ate steamed veggies for like a month) with every meal, and amazing skin with raw veggies – this is a big lesson in nutrient absorbtion!
Truthfully, it’s actually been easier to make the change than I thought. I love the way I eat, I get less cravings (if none at all) because I’m no longer addicted to sugar or processed carbs! It’s amazing! I’ve stopped overeating, I have more energy, I sleep super well! Also preparing meals is simpler since there’s less cooking. I just pop chicken or fish in the oven, then throw some raw veggies on a plate and donezo! 🙂
How’s your skin? How did the candida cleanse go?
Hello! Great post I should say,because I didn’t have any idea how many things in products are not good at all. So I have some questions about products,which seems to be natural,but I am not sure if it is safe to use when I have sensitive acne prone skin. One product which I am thinking to buy but still concerned contains: Achillea millefolium (yarrow) Distillate, Salix Alba Bark Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate. Could you please tell me what you think,it is good to use? I also struggling finding the right skin oil. I have oil,which contains: Vitis Vinifera Seed,Persea Gratissima,Simmondsia Chinesis(Jojoba oil),Tocopherol(Vitamin E),Rosmarinus Officinalis,Pelargonium Graveoens,Citral,Geraniol,Limonene and Linalool. Maybe pure oil is still better to use than oil with those ingrediences? Thanks in advance!
Hi,
What are the brands?
And what is the first product with yarrow and white willow bark? High amount preservation. I am not understanding what that could be for.
They are not using the basic names which would be confusing or fancy sounding to most people.
The oil is okay. But if you are sensitized or sensitive you may want to only begin with one or two oils as opposed to that lengthy list of essential oils.
Very well articulated. You are amazing. 😉
Hi tracy thanks for the very hard work. Please which whitening product will suit for my prone skin ? And plx suggest the best face wash for my oily skin .
Sorry Misszuvy, I haven’t researched any, not sure what to recommend there!
Hello☺ thaaank you for all this information? do you know if a good foundation and lotion that doesnt many of those ingredients?
Hi Maria: https://thelovevitamin.com/19274/makeup-brands-acne-prone-skin/
This is so informative and helpful ??
I just want to cry after reading this. Even the products that are supposed to be for sensitive acne prone skin have most of these ingredients. I am so confused on what to use anymore. : ( I have sensitive acne prone yet tends to be dehydrated skin. Can you recommend a night moisturizer that I can use over acne products?
I know, it sucks big time.
For moisturizer, something like this: https://thelovevitamin.com/19482/diy-anti-acne-anti-aging-moisturizer-recipe/
With a little bit of this thrown in: https://thelovevitamin.com/20235/glycerin-skin-care-acne-holy-grail/
So after reading the above lists I am totally confused now what should I use to moisturize my acne prone skin. Because after so many seraches I found one product but it has all the above listed ingredients. I am very much fed up with my acnes. Can anyone please help me 🙁
Hi Simran, something like this: https://thelovevitamin.com/19482/diy-anti-acne-anti-aging-moisturizer-recipe/
With a little bit of this added in as well: https://thelovevitamin.com/20235/glycerin-skin-care-acne-holy-grail/
Hi
Thanks for the info.. I am struggling with adult acne since teenage.. tried every products and treatments but still have hyperpigmentation marks. I am on low dose antibiotics and topical tretinoin which is helping. I use cerave hydrating cleanser and cetaphil moisturizing lotion. I am also using mac oil control lotion and bare minerals make-up which I think making my skin more oily. Can you please suggest me good moisturiser and make-up? I really want to change my skin care routine and want to find something more natural. Thanks
Hi I have recently switched to Young living face and makeup products. I wanted to know if the mineral powder was causing more breakouts. The key ingredients are Boron nitride, Lauroyl lysine, and Aspen bark extract. Other ingredients are Mica, Boron nitride, Lauroyl lysine, Populus tremuloides bark extract, Kaolin clay, Silica.
Thanks
Mallory
Hi Tracy and the comment readers,
I would like to ask couple of questions regarding some of the “eco-friendly” make-up products I thought were safe and healthy to use. I would greatly appreciate your reply and feedback.
What do you think of Tarte under eye corrector?! Following are the ingredients:
Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Bis-digylceryl Polyacyladipate-2, Rhus Verniciflua Peel Wax, Rhus Succedanea Fruit Wax, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Tribehenin, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (licorice) Root Extract, Microcrystalline Wax/Cera Microcristallina/Cire Microcristalline, Kaolin, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Silica, Montmorillonite, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Caffeine, Squalane, Polyethylene, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Atelocollagen, Butylene Glycol, Mica, Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol. May Contain/Peut Contenir/(+/-): Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891).
Benefit the PORE-fessional primer? Ingredients are below:
Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Isononyl Isononanoate, Silica, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Isododecane, Phenoxyethanol, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Cyclohexasiloxane, Tocopheryl Acetate, Fragrance (Parfum), Mica, Iron Oxides (CI 77492), Limonene, Iron Oxides (CI 77491), Iron Oxides (CI 77499), Triethoxycaprylylsilane, BHT.
Thanks so much!
Love, Sal
Hi Sal — the first one doesn’t look as bad, but I see a few nasties. The second one is a no no no! Full of silicones that may not “clog” pores or appear to cause breakouts right away, but do damage the layers of skin over time leading to more dysfunction
Thank you so much for your reply! I really appreciate it.
I have one last question: I have been hearing a lot about this French skin care brand Biologique Recherche and their magical lotion p50. A lot of women are talking about its beautiful results and benefits they are seeing on their skin. These are the ingredients found in this product, would you recommend?
Water (Aqua), Gluconolactone, Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Citric Acid, Ethoxydiglycol, Magnesium Chloride, Malic Acid, Vinegar (Acetum), Phytic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Cochlearia Armoracia (Horseradish) Root Extract, Arctium Lappa Root (Burdock Root) Extract, Rumex Acetosa Leaf Extract, Myrtus Communis Extract, Commiphora Myrrha Resin Extract, Allium Cepa (Onion) Bulb Extract, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Flower/Leaf Oil, Sulfur, Sorbitol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate.
I am not someone who has chronic acne but I would say my skin is pretty sensitive.
Thanks again!
Sal
Hello, am based in UK and was looking for a good mascara. Lotzzzzz of the organic and “healthy ” ones contain alcohol and silica((((
I have found this one odylique. (https://www.odylique.co.uk/organic-mascaras-sensitive-eyes.html)
Here are the ingredients:
Ingredients: Aqua, Alcohol*, Cera alba*, Calendula officinalis flower extract*, Acacia Senegal gum*, Theobroma cacao seed butter*, Euphorbia cerifera cera*, Lecithin, Sodium olivate*, Helianthus annus seed cera, Aloe barbadensis leaf juice powder*, Hippophae rhamnoides fruit extract*, Lavandula hybrida oil*, Linalool (from the organic essential oil)*. May contain +/- CI 77007, CI 77491, CI 77499 + Silica.
**Ecocert-approved colour pigments (occur naturally as rocks or semi-precious stones)
*Organically grown/produced (88%)
100% natural product
Free fromany synthetic chemicals, preservatives and fillers, bismuth oxychloride, hydrogenated oils, lead, mercury, parabens, phthalates, petrochemicals, silicones, talc and tree-nut oils.
Plain English: Aloe vera juice*, Tincture of Calendula*, Shea butter*x, Green clay, Beeswax*, Lecithin, Saponified olive oil*, Sunflower wax, Acacia gum*, Sea buckthorn extract*, May contain** +/- CI 77007, CI 77491, CI 77499 Silica
*Organically grown/produced (minimum 76%). **Ecocert/Cosmos approved high purity mineral pigments free from lead, mercury, arsenic and other heavy metal contaminants.
What do you think about this one?
It looks good! Honestly, I’m not AS concerned about mascara — in terms of acne, it’s more important to worry about what you are putting directly on your acne prone areas. And then get mostly chemical free stuff for the rest, but I don’t think you have to be as concerned about a little alcohol or silica in mascara
Hi! I just saw this informative site and I am looking for a makeup that won’t damage my face any further. I have acne but it’s pretty much more on red marks and hyperpigmentation, comedones… as much as I don’t want to apply makeup- I need it when working. So I hope you could help me sort out the ingredients of the powder that interests me.
Here they are:
mica, titanium dioxide (CI 77891), silica,caprylic/capric triglyceride (coconut oil-derived), zinc oxide (CI 77947), polyglyceryl-3 laurate (vegetable-derived), magnesium stearate (vegetable-derived), Oryza sativa (rice) powder, lauroyl lysine (amino acid derived), glyceryl caprylate (coconut oil, palm oil and glycerine-derived), tocopherol (vitamin E), farnesol, linalool (+/-): iron oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499)
Your response is highly appreciated
Is Mirabella an okay product? I need help with foundation. I have been struggling with adult acne for years! I clean and use many productions for cleaning my skin, but am thinking it might be my foundation that is making this difficult! HELP.
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Cyclopentasiloxane, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Cyclohexasiloxane, Butylene Glycol, Benzophenone-3, Ozokerite, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Magnesium Sulfate, Hexyl Laurate, Bis-Vinyl Dimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Acrylates/Polytrimethylsiloxymethacrylate Copolymer, Beeswax (Cera Alba), Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Glycereth-18 Ethylhexanoate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, C18-21 Alkane, Potassium Sorbate, Polyisobutene, Boron Nitride, Silica, Isohexadecane, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Xanthan Gum, C30-45 Alkyl Cetearyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Glycereth-18, Isododecane, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Aluminum Dimyristate, Dipropylene Glycol Dibenzoate, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, Allantoin, Propylene Carbonate, Disodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Polysorbate 60, Glycerin, Trehalose, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether Benzoate, Cyclomethicone, Tropolone, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Mica (CI 77019)
Hi Julia 🙂 — Nope, that’s a really really awful product!
Hi Tracy,
Do you have any suncreens to recommend that wont clog pores?
Thank you!
Hi Tracy, I am pulling my hair out trying to find a moisturizer that avoids these ingredients that suits my skin. I tried switching to Lapis face oil from Herbivore, but my skin is reacting poorly to it, almost cystic like acne with small bumps on my forehead that aren’t exactly white heads. Any suggestions for a daily moisturizer?
Check out my DIY facial moisturizer recipe (google it) —- at basic — use a combo of aloe and a small amount of glycerin, apply to wet skin, then apply one drop of an oil before it dries and then you’re done
I had to stop using typical moisturizers and I now only use Shomei Organic Skincare Vitamin C elixir, and also their pure Hyaluronic Acid. Amazing improvement just after two weeks when I switched. Amazing moisture and NO more acne.
I switched to Acure Organics (Volume formula specifically, because of ingredients) shampoo/conditioner so I wouldn’t break out when my hair touched my face. For hand and body – Out Of Africa pure unrefined Shea Butter (unscented, or I use with vanilla oil). Makeup foundation – “100% Pure” is the brand name and they have only two at this time suited for acne-prone skin…. water foundation which is full coverage but I mix a half pump with a full pump of hyaluronic acid and it’s less heavy. The other foundation is called second skin and it appears very watery but it’s really beautiful on the skin and lasts a very long time. They discontinued the very fairest shade in that formula so I can no longer purchase anymore but I have some left and I still love it. I haven’t found a body wash or soap that I’m completely in love with but I currently use palmers skin success with sulfur in it and it’s a white bar of soap. That’s as best as I can find for my whole body until I do some more searching but all my acne is gone. I even use that vitamin C serum elixir in my hair for blow dry styling
What do you think of this face mask? (Rosehip Exfoliating Mask by Eminence):
Organic Phytonutrient Blend™ [Aloe Juice*, Rosehip Seed Extract*, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract*, Horsetail Extract*, Lavender Flower Extract*, Lemon Peel Extract*, Gotu Kola Extract*, St. John’s Wort Extract*, Star Anise Extract*, Horse Chestnut Extract*, Soy Lecithin*, Rosehip Seed Oil* And Vegetable Heptyl Glucoside], Kaolin Clay, Vegetable Glycerin*, Corn Germ Oil*, Cetearyl Alcohol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Rosehip Extract*, Corn Cob Powder, Cetyl Palmitate, Propanediol (from Corn), Honey*, Xanthan Gum, Benzyl Alcohol, Salicylic Acid, Vegetable Glycerin, Sorbic Acid, Lemon Oil*, Zinc Oxide, Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate, Corn-Derived Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Lemon Balm Oil, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Carrot Extract, Vitamin C Ester, Vitamin E, Soy Lecithin, Biocomplex2™ [Acai*, Lemon*, Barbados Cherry*, Indian Gooseberry*, Baobab*, Camu Camu*, Carrot*, Coconut Water*, Goji Berry*, Tapioca Starch (from Cassava Root)*, Alpha Lipoic Acid And Coenzyme Q10].
Looks pretty good, I don’t see any major red flags!
I’ve been on this journey of switching all skincare and makeup to clean, non toxic options for the last 6+months. Started oil cleansing, using essential oils and honey face wash 3 months or so ago, totally noticed decreased oil and breakouts. Next was switching makeup. HARD. Have tried so many and either they don’t have enough coverage or my skin would be itchy and irritated. For the last 2 weeks I’ve been using Well People; their tinted moisturizer, stick foundation and face oil. I thought my skin was ok with it, but these last few weeks it’s freaked out at the same time. However my diet has been mega off so maybe that’s it? UGH i dunno. What are your thoughts on the ingredients?
Bio tint multi action moisturizer
Active Ingredients:
Zinc Oxide 20%
Other Ingredients:
Water, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate, Silica, Castor (Ricinus Communis) Oil, Glycerin, Shea Butter Ethyl Esters, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli) Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Magnesium Sulfate, Isostearic Acid, Lecithin, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Gluconolactone, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
Contains 1% or less of each of the following: Tocopheryl Acetate, Isoamyl Laurate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil*, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Sodium Benzoate, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Tribehenin, Punica Granatum (Pomegrante) Seed Oil*, Bisabolol, Isoamyl Cocoate, Glyceryl Undecylenate, Phytic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Ceramide NG, Calendula Officinalis (Marigold) Flower Extract*, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract*, Panax Quinquefolium Root Extract*, Calcium Gluconate, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextin, Algae Extract, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
*Certified Organic
Bio booster Serum
Rosa Moschata (Rose hip) seed oil*, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Fruit Oil*, Rubus Idaeus (Red Raspberry) Seed Oil*, Jojoba Oil/Macadamia Seed Oil Esters (and) Squalene (and) Phytosteryl Macadamiate (and) Phytosterols, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli) Seed Oil, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract*, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil*, Calendula Officinalis Flower Oil*, Melaleuca Leucadendron Cajaputi (Cajaput) Oil*, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Oil*, Nigella sativa (Black Cumin) Seed Oil, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract*, Amyris Balsamifera (Amyris) Oil, Pelargonium Roseum Leaf (Rose Geranium) Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Neroli) Flower Oil, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Petitgrain) Leaf Oil, Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Oil, Aniba Rosaeodora (Rosewood) Wood Oil, Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil, Canaga Odorata (Ylang Ylang) Flower Oil, Myroxylon Pereira (Balsam Peru) Resin. *Organic
I see you listed shark liver oil, but what about squalene and squalane from plant based sources? I’ve read that squalane is better for your skin since it’s hydrogenated and that makes it less greasy as well.
I haven’t really done any experimentation with squalene, but I have actually heard really good things about it — yes, probably not the kind of shark livers. It’s on my “try that out one day” list 😉
i am 33 years old. i have acne since the age of 18 years. it was very bad when i was 23-24 years old as i used lot of wrong products/cosmetics on my face.
finally i went to my beautician who does skin treatments too and with the help of chemical peels and her own company manufactured products i was able to get control of my acne completely. i did not have the best skin but at least it was acne and pimple free.
the products i was using for the last six years were:
1. Moisturizer
ingredients- water, Glycerine, urea, allantoin, carbapol, methyl paraben sodium, propyl paraben sodium, TEA, Gelatin, Agar-Agar
2.Face Pack for clearing oil
ingredients- water, light kaolin, glycerine, bentonite, salicylic acid, lactic acid, perfume, methyl paraben sodium, propyl paraben sodium
3. Detoxifying pack
ingredients- light kaoline, Zinc Oxide, Multani Mitti, Betonite, Turmeric, Pippermint Oil.
4. Skin-lightening pack
ingredients- ambahaldi, nagarmotha, yashtimadhu, manjistha, niacinamide, zinc oxide, allantoin
along with the above i was using any regular shampoo for washing my hair and conditioner for conditioning.
i was doing absolutely okay (i was satisfied with the results- had no acne/pimples/whiteheads) for last six years.
in February this year i.e., 2018 i was having hair fall so i went to a dermatologist and she told me to use the following:-
1. Densita Serum, 2. Anaphase Shampoo, 3. Renocia conditioner. alongwith Tablet Follihair for one month.
this was the biggest mistake i ever made. after using the above products- shampoo, conditioner and serum for just one month my whole face was filled with small bumps, acne and black heads, clogged pores…oilyness
since then i stopped using her products and went back to my beautician….she gave me the same treatment of chemical peels…however, i did not see much results this time….now i have just stopped using any treatment apart from my earlier products mentioned above and started a good plant based diet.
now in you article you have said that paraben, TEA, are bad for skin and can clog pores. however, before my February disaster i was using the above mentioned products for six years with no acne at all and my skin had actually stabilized.
please suggest what should i do. i am petrified of trying anything new on my face. i do not wear make up.
I’ve been looking for a translucent powder to help with my very oily face, and I have found a few but I am worried they will cause me to break out.
The first is innisfree matte mineral setting powder, and its ingredients are:
SILICA, CORN STARCH MODIFIED, DIMETHICONE/VINYL DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, MICA, METHICONE, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, DIMETHICONE, GLYCERYL CAPRYLATE, WATER, ETHYLENE/ACRYLIC ACID COPOLYMER, MINERAL SALTS, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, MENTHA ARVENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, PHENOXYETHANOL
The second is coty airspun loose face powder and its ingredients are:
Talc, Calcium Silicate, Isopropyl Palmitate, Cetyl Acetate, Zinc Stearate, Fragrances, Stearyl Acetate, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Acetylated Lanolin Alcohol, Oleyl Acetate, Propylparaben, (May Contain: Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Zinc Oxide).
Thank you so much!
Hi Jaimie — hmm yeah I wouldn’t use either of these! Look up just using arrowroot powder as a setter
Hi Tracy,
I have been wondering about this BB cream – it’s amazing on my skin and I have used other products from this brand which seem to be very good but Im slightly unsure about this one as I an spot a silicone in there but not that many ingredients in total, what are you thougths?
imethicone, Undecane, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Tridecane, Tocopheryl Acetate, Silica Silylate, Perlite, Disodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Retinyl Linoleate, Aluminium Hydroxide, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides.
Hi Radina — yeah there’s a lot of silicones in there :/ — imethicone, dimethicone crosspolymer, I think undecane and tridecane are also silicones
Hi Tracy!
I am also on the journey of finding a makeup brand that doesn’t cause breakouts–Omiana and Rejuva minerals are the ones I have found that have the least irritating ingredients for me (compared to the drying effects of Lily Lolo etc.) Although, Rejuva uses Boron Nitride. Do you know of anyone who has problems with it? I know it can be drying, but I am having a hard time finding information about its comedogenic possibilities…
Omiana might just be a better choice (Still has kaolin, but I mean…at this point I can’t find anything with fewer ingredients unless someone was literally just using rice powder and pigment from an organic potato or something. jk! What a journey.)
Also, I am weirdly having a lot of success with Raw Shea Butter on my face (I have heard it is comedogenic for some)…curious if anyone else is having success with it. Argan is probably better, but the Shea has been really healing for me and I’m one of the super sensitive ones.
Simply want to say thanks alot on the confusion of ingredients.
Hi!! Thank you SOOOO much for this article!!! I use face sheet masks every night! And i have no idea which ingredients are good or bad!! Do you have any brands for face masks to recommend??
Hi Rachel — I recommend papaya powder masks — google The Love Vitamin papaya masks and you’ll find my articles about it!
Hi Tracy, do you know any good compact sunprotector that acts as a mattifier? I have very oly skin and liquid sunprotectors leave a very greasy feeling.
Sorry Rebeca, not off the top of my head!
Hi Tracy ..you said that u r still finding a sunscreen spray with physical filters ..well I know an Indian brand called mom’s and world kids sunscreen spray .it uses fewer chemicals and are free from harmful ingredients ..do have a look ..all the ingredients are ok except two sunscreen ingredient namely octocrylene and octinoxate ..
Tracy- I am a 62 yrs young man and have had acne problems since I was as teen. I’m still trying to find a safe, oil-free (all the above ingredients free) face lotion/gel that won’t break my skin out. I do have sensitive skin probably due to all the stuff I’ve tried on my face over the years. Could you please recommend a few products for me?
Thank you!