Pomade acne vs acne cosmetica: are they the same thing?
Pomade acne and acne cosmetica are two different types of acne caused by external factors: hairstyling products and cosmetics. Learn how to identify and avoid them both.
Table of Content:
What is pomade acne? | Why does pomade acne occur? | How to get rid of pomade acne? | What is acne cosmetica? | Why does acne cosmetica occur? | How to get rid of acne cosmetica?
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Pomade acne and acne cosmetica are two different types of acne caused by external factors. They are caused by different products, they manifest in slightly different locations of the face, head, and body, and the acne type is also slightly different.
In this article, we will explore the causes and symptoms of pomade acne and acne cosmetica and cover some basics for the prevention and treatment of these two common skin conditions.
What is pomade acne?
Pomade acne (also known as hairline acne) typically occurs along the hairline, forehead, temple cheeks and ears and is caused by the use of hair styling products such as hair pomades, oils, and gels1.
Why does this occur?
Many of the most common ingredients in pomade and other hairstyling products contain ingredients like petroleum jelly, mineral oil, and lanolin2 which are known to be comedogenic and have the potential to obstruct the skin’s pores and trigger the development of acne breakouts. These hair styling ingredients create an environment that favors the growth of acne-causing bacteria, ultimately resulting in the formation of acne breakouts.
Besides, hairstyling products help trap dirt, sweat, and bacteria on the skin, which further develops acne. People who use pomade frequently or leave it on their hair for extended periods of time are at a higher risk of developing pomade acne.
Pomade acne can easily be mistaken for acne vulgaris, so it is best to consult a dermatologist to get adequate treatment.
How to get rid of pomade acne?
According to Marta Teixeira, dermatology nurse, to get rid of pomade acne you should follow these indications:
- Avoid products that may cause breakouts by looking for the pore clogging ingredients
- If you use a product with clogging ingredients, wash your hair at night to remove any product residue
- If you need to use these products on a daily basis to style your hair, do not touch your skin or scalp with the product, use the product only on your hair and in smaller quantities to reduce breakouts.
- Rinse your skin in the morning and night to avoid pimples
- Do not use hairstyling products when you go to the gym. If you do go to the gym with styling products on, wash your hair as soon as you are done
- Use a non-oily cleanser to wash your face twice per day
- Use a non-oily moisturizer to moisturize your skin
- Avoid picking at the acne, as this can worsen the condition
- Get professional treatment by clicking on the “Start a Consultation” button below
Request a prescription & treatment plan
Start a photo-based virtual consultation with an independent dermatology provider via the Miiskin app.
*Miiskin partners with independent medical practices that offer photo-based virtual consultations. You may request certain medications in your consultation, but it’s the provider that decides the right treatment for you.
What is acne cosmetica?
Acne cosmetica is a type of acne that occurs due to the presence of comedogenic substances such as makeup, excessive cleansing of the skin with soaps with pH 8.0, and essential oils3. These cosmetic products clog pores and irritate the skin4. It usually appears as small pimple-like bumps on the face and it differentiates itself from other types of acne because it’s non-inflammatory, so there is no redness and swelling5.
Why does this occur?
Research shows that the use of cosmetics is linked to more acne breakouts6 7 because these products contain ingredients that are inadequate for acne-prone skin. Besides, the use of dirty makeup brushes or applicators can also worsen this condition8.
How to get rid of acne cosmetica?
According to Marta, you can follow these indications to get rid of this bothersome acne.
- Switch to non-comedogenic products with a label that says “oil-free,” “won’t clog pores” or “non-comedogenic”
- Wash your make-up brushes and sponges every week with shampoo9
- Remove your makeup before sleeping and wash your face with a gentle cleanser
- Use a non-oily moisturizer
- Don’t touch your face
- Get professional treatment by clicking on the “Start a Consultation” button below
Request a prescription & treatment plan
Start a photo-based virtual consultation with an independent dermatology provider via the Miiskin app.
*Miiskin partners with independent medical practices that offer photo-based virtual consultations. You may request certain medications in your consultation, but it’s the provider that decides the right treatment for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both pomade acne and acne cosmetica have relatively similar symptoms, they have different underlying causes. Pomade acne is caused by hair styling products that clog hair follicles, while acne cosmetica is caused by skin cosmetics that clog pores.
The prevention and treatment of both types of acne involve avoiding the use of the acne-causing products, practicing good hygiene habits, and seeking medical attention when necessary.
It is important to understand the differences between these two types of acne in order to properly identify and treat them. By taking the appropriate steps, it is possible to prevent and manage both pomade acne and acne cosmetica.
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Reviewed by dermatologists
Article References:
1 https: //www. Researchgate. Net/publication/7289458_a_re-evaluation_of_the_comedogenicity_concept
2 https: //pubmed. Ncbi. Nlm. Nih. Gov/6229554/
3 https: //www. Ncbi. Nlm. Nih. Gov/pmc/articles/pmc7527424/
4 https: //jofskin. Org/index. Php/skin/article/view/1289/pdf
5 https: //iamj. In/images/upload/1195_1198. Pdf
6 https: //pubmed. Ncbi. Nlm. Nih. Gov/33206430/
7 https: //pubmed. Ncbi. Nlm. Nih. Gov/23859829/
8 https: //www. Aad. Org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/clean-your-makeup-brushes
9 https: //www. Aad. Org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/clean-your-makeup-brushes
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