Acne cosmetica
Encyclopedia
Acne cosmetica is a term referring to acne
caused by or made worse by cosmetics
. The mechanism was presumably a chemically induced plugging of the pilosebaceous orifice. This was a significant problem for dermatologists in the 1970s and 1980s, but with the improved formulations produced by cosmetic chemists over the past thirty years, this is now a relatively rare diagnosis in daily practice.
The terms "non-comedogenic" and "non-acne(i)genic" appeared on moisturizer
s and other cosmetic compounds as re-formulations were introduced, sometimes associated with claims that the products were oil-free or water-based. Although early work produced lists of comedogenic chemicals in various strengths and vehicles, it became apparent that the actual comedogenicity of a product could not be predicted from its contents; rather the finished product itself needed to be use-tested.
The production of a low-grade folliculitis
by some components of cosmetic products has led to misdiagnosis on occasion.
People may not attribute their reactions to their cosmetics at first, but may notice worsening symptoms after using certain face makeup, sunblock or lip products.
Reactions are more likely to occur if applied cosmetics are let to sit and are not stripped after use.
Acne
Acne is a general term used for acneiform eruptions. It is usually used as a synonym for acne vulgaris, but may also refer to:*Acne aestivalis*Acne conglobata*Acne cosmetica*Acne fulminans*Acne keloidalis nuchae*Acne mechanica...
caused by or made worse by cosmetics
Cosmetics
Cosmetics are substances used to enhance the appearance or odor of the human body. Cosmetics include skin-care creams, lotions, powders, perfumes, lipsticks, fingernail and toe nail polish, eye and facial makeup, towelettes, permanent waves, colored contact lenses, hair colors, hair sprays and...
. The mechanism was presumably a chemically induced plugging of the pilosebaceous orifice. This was a significant problem for dermatologists in the 1970s and 1980s, but with the improved formulations produced by cosmetic chemists over the past thirty years, this is now a relatively rare diagnosis in daily practice.
The terms "non-comedogenic" and "non-acne(i)genic" appeared on moisturizer
Moisturizer
Moisturizers or emollients are complex mixtures of chemical agents specially designed to make the external layers of the skin softer and more pliable, by increasing its hydration by reducing evaporation. Naturally occurring skin lipids and sterols as well as artificial or natural oils,...
s and other cosmetic compounds as re-formulations were introduced, sometimes associated with claims that the products were oil-free or water-based. Although early work produced lists of comedogenic chemicals in various strengths and vehicles, it became apparent that the actual comedogenicity of a product could not be predicted from its contents; rather the finished product itself needed to be use-tested.
The production of a low-grade folliculitis
Folliculitis
Folliculitis is the inflammation of one or more hair follicles. The condition may occur anywhere on the skin with the exception of the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.- Causes :...
by some components of cosmetic products has led to misdiagnosis on occasion.
People may not attribute their reactions to their cosmetics at first, but may notice worsening symptoms after using certain face makeup, sunblock or lip products.
Reactions are more likely to occur if applied cosmetics are let to sit and are not stripped after use.