Make up is an amazing form of self expression and a creative outlet that can help both men and women feel their best. So many of us spend up to 12 hours a day with our makeup on, which brings us to the question – what are the effects of cheap or low quality cosmetics when it comes to our skin health?
It comes as no surprise that the majority of supermarket or drugstore makeup brands contain a lot of skin-unfriendly chemicals and components that can cause irritation, acne and even untimely ageing. Today, we have a look at everything you need to know about how your foundation and beauty products are affecting your skin and what you can do to clean up your makeup drawer – literally and figuratively. Read on to find out more.
Don’t Build On A Poor Foundation
The sad truth is, many of us slather layers of foundation on our faces without even knowing what goes into making these products. When you’re putting something on your face every day, you have to be careful. Here are the top ingredients that are found in supermarket and drugstore foundations that you should avoid at all costs:
Parabens: Parabens are a chemical that mimic oestrogen which may disrupt hormones in the body and harm fertility and reproductive organs. The worst thing is that they are also very easily absorbed into the skin. Although parabens are extremely harmful, they are found in over 80% of commercial cosmetics.
Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives: Thought that formaldehyde was only used to preserve bodies? Think again. Formaldehyde is a known skin sensitiser, allergen and carcinogen. In cosmetics, formaldehyde can be added directly, or more often, it can be released from preservatives such as quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, polyoxymethylene urea, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate and a lot more. If you can’t pronounce it, it definitely shouldn’t be on your skin.
Lead: Did you know that over 60% of lipsticks contain lead? It is important to note that there is no safe level of lead exposure – even the tiniest amount is toxic to us. It has been linked to learning, language and behavioural problems, amongst many other harmful effects.
Can My Foundation Cause Acne?
Many people who are acne prone may find that certain brands of foundations and concealers, may worsen existing pimples or even cause new breakouts. If this is something you struggle with, chances are your foundation contains ingredients that may be clogging your pores and causing breakouts. Let’s not forget that parabens found in drugstore makeup also disrupt your hormones which play a huge part in your overall skin health.
Aside from acne, cheap or low quality foundations can also irritate or further exacerbate conditions such as Rosacea, Psoriasis, Eczema and Dermatitis.
Acne Cosmetica: Bumps and Breakouts
Another reason you may be experiencing makeup related breakouts is Acne Cosmetica. Acne Cosmetica is a mild but persistent form of acne triggered by the use of cosmetics. It may appear as small bumps on the skin and small papules and pustules may be present. When your foundation accumulates within the follicle, your pores end up blocked. Excess oil eventually builds up, clogging the pore and creating an unwanted blemish. Heavy foundations, moisturisers, eye creams, and makeup are all common causes of acne cosmetica.
As a general rule of thumb, it is always a good idea to switch makeup brands or products if your acne seems to worsen after wearing makeup. After all, you wouldn’t continue eating something that made you feel ill, so why would you do that to your skin?
What Is The Best Foundation For Healthy Skin?
There is so much more to aquality foundation product than simple coverage, and now that we’ve told you everything you should be avoiding, it’s time to look at the best of the best.
The ideal foundation is one that provides an additional physical barrier against the sun, pollution, and free radical damage. Most importantly, choosing a clean foundation that doesn’t end up clogging your pores is key. This is why our #1 and only choice is Saint Minerals – a 100% cruelty-free, ethically sourced and sustainable cosmetic brand that contains zero preservatives, fillers, toxins, talc or fragrance.
Why Is Saint Minerals Our #1 (And Only) Choice?
We only recommend Saint Minerals Bases due to the fact theysit on the surface of the skin and are a true extension of your skincare with the added benefit of SPF 25. Saint Mineral’s entire range of cosmetics are also made from earth’s finest natural minerals and antioxidant-rich plant extracts, on top of offering the skin intense hydrating properties and the added benefit of colour.
As an added bonus, Saint Minerals offers an incredibly wide range of different types of foundations (cream, liquid, powder) that are guaranteed to suit a variety of different preferences and needs. Whatever your favourite cosmetics brand offers, Saint Minerals does better.
At VC Dermal Clinics, we are proud to be a stockist of the following range of SM products:
- Natural Loose Mineral Foundation Powder
- Liquid Mineral Foundation
- Natural Pressed Mineral Foundation
- Peptide Concealer
- Mineral Primer
- And More
Bonus: How To Pick The Right Foundation For Your Skin Type
Picking the right foundation goes beyond just the shade or colour you choose. Your skin type is one of the most important factors when it comes to choosing the perfect finish.
For Dry Skin: Saint Minerals Liquid Mineral Foundation
This dewy foundation provides a satin, creamy, full – coverage, dewy, incandescent, flawless finish. A creamy formula that hydrates your skin, flawlessly hides fine lines and wrinkles and is great for Acne and Rosacea.
For Oily Skin: Saint Minerals Natural Pressed Mineral Foundation
This convenient pressed foundation is perfect for oily skin types or those wanting a matte finish. Offers UVA + B protection and is convenient for quick touch-ups. Best when paired with the Saint Minerals Mineral Primer which helps to eliminate oil and shine from day to night.
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What you put on your skin matters, so don’t settle for less. This is why we only recommend Saint Minerals to all our client at VC Dermal Clinics – because you deserve the best.