The only good thing that came along with my battle against hormonal and cystic acne was my passion for makeup. Throughout middle and high school I never had the displeasure of dealing with skin that I was ashamed of showing bare. It was only when I hit my 20s did I start to develop deep, painful, and itchy bumps deep underneath my once perfect complexion. I suddenly became embarrassed to leave the house without makeup on and began to search for remedies and coverage options.
Since then, I have tried birth control, topical ointments, and oral medications. My skin is not as bad as it once was, and through self-love and acceptance I have learned to proudly show my face as it is. I believe makeup is art and empowers women (and all genders) around the world every day. I never once have viewed covering my acne as a mask or a strategy into “tricking” men. I wear makeup for myself only and enjoy the intricate process as a hobby. In 2012 a study published in the Journal of Women’s Health found that acne affects nearly half of all women ages 21 to 30.
Here are some of my favorite products (both high end and drugstore) for all of those affected to become more confident while facing skin issues:
Primers
Benefit Cosmetics- The POREfessional Face Primer
This silky, lightweight primer contains no oil and minimizes large pores and fine lines. It also includes vitamin E that is said to smooth and protect skin.
Maybelline- Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer
This primer also promises smaller pores and blurring effects for pre-foundation use. I have used both and can state that this is an exact dupe of the Benefit version at a much lower price point!
Foundations
Kat Von D- Lock It Foundation
This foundation is apart of Kat Von D’s “tattoo” collection that has rave reviews by beauty bloggers and myself included (this liquid eyeliner though). Even in my worst skin phase that included extremely red and painful bumps, this foundation miraculously covered it without having to apply many different layers. It also has loads of different shades for many different skin tones!
L’Oreal Infallible Pro-Matte 24 Hour Foundation
This high coverage foundation boasts that it “instantly absorbs both sweat and oil without disturbing color pigments”. It’s matte formula holds strong and has lasted me many nights out on the town without budging!
Powders
Clinique- Stay-Matte Sheer Pressed Powder
This sheer formula lies perfectly on irritated skin and leaves a once oily and combination face shine free all day long. It does not cake up on top of your foundation and feels light and fresh on your skin.
Rimmell- Stay Matte Powder
I have bought this specific powder a countless amount of times. At a price point of $3.99, it has become a staple in my makeup collection for many months now. It leaves my skin matte and minimizes my pore throughout an entire school or workday.
Removal
Simple- Kind to Skin Cleansing Facial Wipes
Simple Skin Care has become an increasingly popular brand amongst beauty lovers lately, as it contains no dyes, artificial perfumes, or harsh irritants that so often negatively affect skin. These makeup wipes cleanse and remove all makeup without aggravating sensitive skin types.
Organic Coconut Oil
We have all heard the many different benefits of using coconut oil, which include alternatives to cooking, moisturizing skin, and conditioning hair. Coconut oil is also a fool proof and inexpensive way to remove makeup before washing your face with your normal cleanser. I have used this 32-ounce jar for almost a year now and still have half of the product left!
Although troubled skin is hard to deal with, there are always different products at versatile price ranges that can help anyone deal with these issues. Whether you choose to conceal those blemishes with a face beat to the Gods, or go au natural, know that no matter what you are beautiful in the skin you are in!