July 2023

Laying the Foundation

July 6, 2023 | by Erica Vermin

Prep is key to makeup for acne-prone skin

Acne breakouts can be a nightmare for our clients, especially when they have important events coming up. As beauty professionals, it’s crucial to have the knowledge and products to help them look and feel their best. In this article, we will explore some makeup tips and favorite products that are suitable for acne-prone and sensitive skin.

Skin preparation is the key to achieving a flawless finish when dealing with breakouts. Taking skincare seriously is essential. Start by assessing the client’s skin to determine the appropriate approach, whether it’s redness, oily skin, pimples, flaky or dry skin, or texture issues. The following makeup products can assist you in achieving the desired flawless look.

An effective routine often incorporates Ayurvedic skincare. Ayurveda, meaning “science of life,” is a holistic healing system that focuses on helping the body heal from within. Ayurvedic products incorporate highly potent botanicals and natural ingredients, which I’ve found beneficial for myself and my clients. These products also help with skin issues such as acne, eczema, dryness, rosacea, and redness.

Let’s jump into the skin preparation steps:

“Skin preparation is the key to achieving a flawless finish when dealing with breakouts”

[ihc-hide-content ihc_mb_type=”show” ihc_mb_who=”2,4,6,7,5″ ihc_mb_template=”3″ ]

1. Micellar Water: Begin by using micellar water and a cotton round to remove any remaining makeup or debris from the client’s skin. This step is especially important for clients who may arrive with leftover makeup. Micellar water is available in various formulations, but I opt for one specifically designed for sensitive skin.

2. Cleansing Balm: Follow up with a balm cleanser. Look for a balm that won’t dry out the skin and contains French Green clay. This clay offers mild exfoliating properties to eliminate dry, flaky skin while aiding hydration. Additionally, French Green clay reduces blemishes and tightens the skin. Another beneficial ingredient to seek in a balm is Tulsi, known for its acne-preventing and anti-inflammatory properties. To remove the balm, either use a facial spray or micellar water. Remember to be gentle when removing the cleanser, especially if your client is having a breakout.

3. Toner: Toner will help seal up pores, making them appear smaller. They also can help restore the skin’s PH balance and help absorb other skincare products. You always want to use a toner before using a facial oil. This will make the oil more effective.

4. Facial Oil: Don’t be afraid to use facial oil, even on acne-prone skin. The right oil can help reduce the skin’s oil production over time and brighten up acne scars. Facial oils help lock in moisture and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. Look for oils containing blue tansy, which soothes, nourishes, and calms the skin while reducing redness.

5. Moisturizer: Choose an oil-free or non-comedogenic moisturizer. These products are less likely to clog pores and contribute to acne breakouts. Opting for this type of moisturizer allows the skin to breathe freely. Make sure to have options, a matte moisturizer and a hydrating one, to cover all your bases.

Once the skin is properly prepped, it’s time for foundation. Look for a lightweight formula that can be built up from sheer to full coverage, depending on your client’s desired look. This versatility ensures you can meet their specific needs. I usually lay down a light layer of foundation, then go back in with a pencil brush where they need more coverage. If your client is dealing with texture, you can opt for a matte foundation. This will help diffuse the look of the skin, so it doesn’t draw more attention to the area. If you don’t have a matte foundation, just add powder to the areas that have a little extra shine.

By following these steps and incorporating these recommended products, you can provide effective makeup solutions for clients with acne and sensitive skin. Remember, skincare is a crucial part of the process, and using products with natural ingredients and properties can deliver
excellent results.

[/ihc-hide-content]