Are There Any Ingredients to Avoid?
Unfortunately, all of those ingredients in hair products that promote shiny strands are not the best for skin. "Some hair care products contain oils that can clog pores on skin and lead to whiteheads and other types of acne," says board certified internist Dr. Sunitha Posina. Most hair products deposit a residue that eventually spreads to your face and body.
Continual use of these pore-clogging hair products can potentially cause inflammatory acne lesions. In dermatological terms, this is known as "acne cosmetica" or "pomade acne" because of the follicle plugging reaction to the petroleum-based components of many styling and hair conditioning products reports Coppola.
"Many ingredients in hair care products can clog pores and lead to breakouts. I wish it was as simple as avoid ingredient x, y, z and you are good," says Rubin. "The way ingredients combine can play a big role so testing a finished formula is really important to be sure it won't clog pores."
Posina suggests watching out for oils, silicones, petroleum, sulfates, parabens, mineral oils, lanolin and coconut oil. Coppola warns that sodium lauryl sulfate and ammonium lauryl sulfate can be very irritating and cause breakouts.
Alcohol, commonly found in hair gels and hairsprays, can possibly be problematic. Panthenol, commonly used as a hair strengthener and fortifier, can also lead to breakouts explains Coppola. Posina says that usually heavy oil-based products, thicker creams and pomades tend to trigger breakouts. So look for hair products marked "noncomedogenic" and "oil-free." Certain waxes and polymers can also aggravate breakouts per Rubin. You may also be sensitive to fragrances. If so, try SEEN's Power Bundle, Fragrance Free, $70.
Image via Imaxtree
How Do You Stop Hair Products From Causing Acne?
It takes a bit of trial and error to discover why you're breaking out. Coppola suggests temporarily stopping your hair care routine to see if the condition improves. Then slowly add products back in one at a time.
If you're still noticing breakouts, try switching products. Products formulated to target body acne are your best bet, like Neutrogena's Body Clear Acne Treatment Body Wash With Salicylic Acid, $9.49. Pay attention to the skin surrounding your hair, in other words your hairline, neck and shoulders. You can also moisturize with lotions containing BHAs.
Make sure you rinse well and ditch leave-in treatments. Just like you need to remove your makeup before going to bed, Posina suggests cleansing your tresses at night. This will also help cut down on pillow transfer and remove any lingering residue on your scalp and strands. You also need to wash your locks after working out to prevent breakouts and tie up your hair to keep it away from your neck and face while exercising.
If you're still experiencing issues, check in with your dermatologist. Your hairstylist may even be able to offer some insight on the best hair products for acne-prone skin.
Image via Imaxtree
How Can I Clear Up the Body Acne I Already Have?
For body acne, Rubin prefers targeted body washes as opposed to medicated creams because the former are easier to use in difficult-to-reach spots. We suggest Murad's Acne Body Wash, $44 or Proactiv's Acne Body Wash, $36.
Like with any new skin care routine, consistency and time are key. You may not see results instantly, but keep at it because it can take about six weeks for a routine to take effect.
Image via Imaxtree
