Acne cosmetica is a type of contact
acneiform eruption
Acneiform eruptions, or acne mimicking eruptions, are a group of skin conditions characterized by small bumps resembling acne. Typically, these bumps are mostly of similar size. Some bumps may be bigger or contain fluid. Generally, blackheads ...
caused by or aggravated by
cosmetics
Cosmetics are substances that are intended for application to the body for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering appearance. They are mixtures of chemical compounds derived from either Natural product, natural source ...
.
Signs and symptoms include a dense group of similar sized
closed comedones and scattered
small bumps, typically over the skin where the cosmetic has been applied.
[ Flare-ups do not generally occur shortly before menstruation and open comedones are not common.][ There may be associated ]perioral dermatitis
Perioral dermatitis, also known as periorificial dermatitis, is a common type of inflammatory skin rash. Symptoms include multiple small (1–2 mm) bumps and blisters sometimes with background redness and scale, localized to the skin aroun ...
.[
Treatment includes withdrawing the acnegenic products, and sometimes applying a ]retinoid
The retinoids are a class of chemical compounds that are natural derivatives of vitamin A or are chemically related to it. Synthetic retinoids are utilized in cosmetic formulations, clinical dermatology, and the treatment of some forms of cancer ...
.[
]
Signs and symptoms
Signs and symptoms include a dense group of similar sized closed comedones and scattered small bumps, typically over the skin where the cosmetic has been applied.[ Flare-ups are not a typical feature shortly before menstruation.][ There may be associated ]perioral dermatitis
Perioral dermatitis, also known as periorificial dermatitis, is a common type of inflammatory skin rash. Symptoms include multiple small (1–2 mm) bumps and blisters sometimes with background redness and scale, localized to the skin aroun ...
.[
]
Cause and mechanism
The mechanism is thought to be chemical
A chemical substance is a unique form of matter with constant chemical composition and characteristic properties. Chemical substances may take the form of a single element or chemical compounds. If two or more chemical substances can be combin ...
ly induced plugging of the pilosebaceous orifice. This became a significant problem for dermatologist
Dermatology is the branch of medicine dealing with the skin.''Random House Webster's Unabridged Dictionary.'' Random House, Inc. 2001. Page 537. . It is a speciality with both medical and surgical aspects. A dermatologist is a specialist medi ...
s in the 1970s and 1980s, but with the improved formulations produced by cosmetic chemists
A chemist (from Greek ''chēm(ía)'' alchemy; replacing ''chymist'' from Medieval Latin ''alchemist'') is a graduated scientist trained in the study of chemistry, or an officially enrolled student in the field. Chemists study the composition of ...
, a diagnosis of acne cosmetica has become relatively rare in dermatological practice.
The terms "non-comedogenic
Acne cosmetica is a type of contact acneiform eruption caused by or aggravated by cosmetics. Signs and symptoms include a dense group of similar sized closed comedones and scattered small bumps, typically over the skin where the cosmetic has bee ...
" and "non-acne(i)genic" appeared on moisturizer
A moisturizer, or emollient, is a Cosmetics, cosmetic preparation used for protecting, moisturizing, and lubricating the Human skin, skin. These functions are normally performed by Sebaceous gland, sebum produced by healthy skin. The word "emollie ...
s and other cosmetic compounds as manufacturers introduced re-formulations—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 one could not predict the actual comedogenicity of a product from its contents; rather, the finished product itself needed use-testing.
The production of a low-grade folliculitis
Folliculitis is the infection and inflammation of one or more hair follicles. The condition may occur anywhere on hair-covered skin. The rash may appear as pimples that come to white tips on the face, chest, back, arms, legs, buttocks, or head.
A ...
by some components of cosmetic products has led to misdiagnosis on occasion. People may not attribute skin reactions to their cosmetics at first, but may notice worsening symptoms after using certain face makeup
Cosmetics are substances that are intended for application to the body for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering appearance. They are mixtures of chemical compounds derived from either natural sources or created sy ...
, sunblock
Sunscreen, also known as sunblock, sun lotion or sun cream, is a photoprotective topical product for the skin that helps protect against sunburn and prevent skin cancer. Sunscreens come as lotions, sprays, gels, foams (such as an expanded foa ...
or lip products.
Reactions are more likely to occur if applied cosmetics are left on and not stripped after wearing them."Acne Cosmetica"
See also
* List of cutaneous conditions
Many skin conditions affect the human integumentary system—the organ system covering the entire surface of the Human body, body and composed of Human skin, skin, hair, Nail (anatomy), nails, and related muscle and glands. The major function o ...
References
External links
{{Disorders of skin appendages
Acneiform eruptions