Pore clogging
As it is common for makeup products to contain a higher content of waxes and oils, there is more chance that pores will become clogged as the barrier that is created on the skin by these ingredients often interferes with the skin’s natural skin cell shedding process and sebum (oil) distribution. This can then lead to excess dead skin cells, sebum and make-up residue accumulating in the pores, which creates an optimal environment for P. acnes, a bacteria that’s a key factor in blemish formation, to thrive. Make up products which are more likely to cause pore clogging are full coverage foundations, cream-based products such as cream blushes, bronzers, and highlighters, silicone-based primers, and concealers. Formulations vary with each brand, and not all these types of products will contribute to breakouts, however, if you are struggling with more acne prone skin as a result of wearing more makeup, these are some of the products you might want to consider changing.

Dryness/dehydration
In contrast to the pore clogging potential of some make up products there is also a risk of skin dehydration when using make up products designed to achieve matte or long wearing goals. Dryness and dehydration in relation to make up stems from powder products and products which do not contain sufficient moisturising ingredients to maintain the skin's natural hydration levels. Powders are exceptional for achieving that smooth, non-shiny make up look as they are designed to absorb the skin’s excess oil, but sometimes their impact on the skin can overstep this line and tip the balance of oil absorption into drying territory. This leads to disruption in the skin’s hydration balance, causing a tight, dry, and sometimes irritated outcome.