When I was a teenager with acne, I used to get so frustrated with my makeup. My mindset was the more I put on the more it covers and the less other people will see. As I got older, and more educated I realized that I was pilling on these thick, waxy, chemical-based pigments endorsed by my favorite “Viva Glam” celebrities in hopes of feeling better about my skin, just wasn’t working. Little did I know it was causing me more breakouts. I love educating young patients looking to better their skin with the right kind of makeup. The first thing I explain to them is the importance of their skincare. This is extremely important because I believe a lot of young patients have high expectations that if they try different makeup or put more on this will get rid of their acne. This is false, well kind of. Let me explain. Skincare is the number one most important step when accomplishing great makeup. Your skin is the ‘canvas’ for your makeup. If you have a rough, bumpy canvas, your makeup or ‘paint’ will not go on as nice then if you were to have a smooth, soft canvas. The second thing I educate patients on is why mineral makeup is better than over-the-counter makeup. Mineral makeup lets your skin breathe and is non-comedogenic – so it won’t clog your pores. It’s enriched with essential vitamins, minerals and anti-inflammatory ingredients that are good for your skin! It’s the same ingredients that are found in your skincare that’s also in your makeup. The minerals that are used in our gl¯o•minerals line are more finely milled than your OTC mineral makeup so it won’t sit in your imperfections. Think of the crushed minerals as grains of sand verses pebbles. Lastly, when picking out makeup for acne use what works for you based on your skin type and lifestyle. Acne can be tricky not only with skincare but makeup too. You can have acne and be dry and sensitive but you can have acne and be oily too. Below are some key makeup items and steps of application for different types of acne skin: glo•minerals Protective Liquid Foundation–Satin II $46, 1.4 fl oz Highly-pigmented foundation. When I say a little go along way with this, I mean it. Vitamins A, C, E and Green Tea Extract are your antioxidants here to help soothe and protect your skin. glo•minerals Oil-free Camouflage Concealer $26 Camouflages acne scars, blemishes or hyperpigmentation. Very pigmented for ultimate coverage. Colorescience Skin Mattifying Primer $49, 1 fl oz This is my ultimate go to for acne skin. It contains Salicylic Acid which is anti-bacterial to help breakouts & pores. Oat Beta Glucans soothes & minimizes redness while providing hydration. Primers help prolong the wear of makeup, soften skin & helps makeup sit better. glo•minerals Pressed Base Foundation $46 Sheer to full coverage pressed foundation powder again, enriched with Vitamins A, C, E and Green Tea. glo•minerals Perfecting Powder $38 Translucent powder to absorb excess oil and provides a matte finish. Use in t-zones where pores tend to be larger or apply throughout the day. skinfo® Invisible Shield Setting Mist $20 Setting mists are key to preventing minerals from looking flaky or chalky. This setting mist helps makeup set throughout the day to prevent smudge free makeup and refresh your look.