What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Acne due to Cosmetics
• Cosmetic-Induced Acne

What is Acne Cosmetica? (Definition/Background Information)

• Acne is a common skin condition that causes inflamed red spots/lesions to appear on the face, neck, shoulders, and other regions. The condition occurs when the tiny hair/oil glands and oil-only glands become clogged with dead cells and non-flowing oil
• Acne Cosmetica is a condition that occurs due to the use of certain makeup and beauty products. It is caused by a variety of cosmetics and the condition is seen on the skin area of application
• Depending on the severity of the condition, Acne Cosmetica may be treated by primarily discontinuing or stopping the usage of the offending cosmetic (chemical) product, and through the use of creams and gels, dermabrasion, and laser therapy
• The prognosis of Acne Cosmetica in a majority of cases is good. However, the condition may recur following repeat exposure to the same set of cosmetics

Who gets Acne Cosmetica? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Acne Cosmetica is a skin condition caused by several (topical) beauty products. Any individual may be at risk for Acne Cosmetica
• It can affect both males and females
• The condition occurs worldwide; individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Acne Cosmetica? (Predisposing Factors)

The key risk factor for Acne Cosmetica is the use of certain cosmetics that can cause the skin condition as a side effect. Cosmetics that may induce this condition may be in the form of:

• Topical creams and gels
• Moisturizers and lotions
• Sprays and scents
• Sunscreens

Note: Certain individuals may be more susceptible for this skin condition than others.

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one's chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Acne Cosmetica? (Etiology)

• Acne Cosmetica results when the cosmetics block the pilosebaceous follicles and sebaceous follicles, leading to the formation of acne skin lesions
• A variety of cosmetic products may induce the condition; the skin reacting to the chemicals in the cosmetics
• Individuals already with acne may have a higher risk for aggravated condition

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Acne Cosmetica?

Acne Cosmetica may have a slow onset. In some cases, the appearance of the signs and symptoms is not immediate after usage of the makeup or topical beauty product. It may take days, weeks, and months for the lesions to develop.

The signs and symptoms of Acne Cosmetica may be as follows:

• The pimples develop on the areas of application, which may include the face and neck (mostly), chest, back, and legs
• In many cases, the condition is mild and small bumps may seen
• Prolonged use of the offending cosmetic may cause severe skin lesions
• Individuals with existing acne may have more severe condition

How is Acne Cosmetica Diagnosed?

• Acne Cosmetica is diagnosed through a simple physical examination by the physician or a dermatologist
• The healthcare provider may ask several questions related to the individual’s age, family medical history, current medications, cosmetics, body lotions used, other medical conditions, infections, etc.
• If secondary infections develop, then a culture test may be done
• Invasive methods, such as skin biopsy, are typically not required; a diagnosis of acne can be made through a physical examination itself

Note: Since Acne Cosmetica mimics acne, it can present diagnostic challenges and treatment difficulties.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Acne Cosmetica?

Some of the complications of Acne Cosmetica include:

• Increased psychological stress
• Cosmetic concerns
• The development of secondary infections
• Recurrence of the condition with more severe signs and symptoms can occur on further exposure to the cosmetics
• Superficial acne lesions seen in Acne Cosmetica can become the more inflammatory acne lesions, leading to scarring

How is Acne Cosmetica Treated?

The treatment of Acne Cosmetica may include:

• Avoiding use of the offending makeup or cosmetic product
• Use of antiseptic, antibiotic topical applications, anti-inflammatory gels, lotions and creams. These include compounds containing the following chemicals:
  • Benzoyl peroxide
  • Salicylic acid
  • Topical retinoid formulations with the active ingredients tretinoin, tazarotene, and adapalene
• Medications, such as antibiotics, may be used for infections
• In case of severe acne, isotretinoin is prescribed (though, NOT for pregnant women). However, because of the many side effects for this drug, it is used only when required. Isotretinoin  patients need to be closely monitored
• After control of active acne, for scarring, cosmetic procedures can be  performed. These include  chemical peeling, punch excision, dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, and laser procedures
• Phototherapy: A controlled exposure to light for a certain time duration; but this method is not very effective for long-lasting acne

Taking care of oneself, being clean and hygienic (especially face and hands), avoiding the urge to touch/break the lesionss, avoiding oily make-ups and creams, drinking lots of water, etc. are all simple practices that can ensure a faster recovery from Acne Cosmetica.

How can Acne Cosmetica be Prevented?

Acne Cosmetica may be prevented by discontinuing the usage of cosmetics and beauty products causing the skin condition.

What is the Prognosis of Acne Cosmetica? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Acne Cosmetica depends upon the severity of the signs and symptoms. In general, the prognosis is excellent with appropriate treatment
• In many cases, the signs and symptoms improve following stoppage of the cosmetic product causing acne and with adequate treatment

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Acne Cosmetica:

Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition.