Makeup means something different to each of us. For some of us, it holds the place of a magical, almost therepeutical tool we use to express ourselves and for others, it symbolises a world of confusion. And then there’s the notorious reputation that surrounds it for being a havoc creator among those of us with acne-prone skin- which frustrates me because I wish everyone would just enjoy makeup without making it out to be this villain that can do no good. So, I’m on a mission to clear the name of the misunderstood makeup that has brought me and so many others joy.
As someone who has struggled with acne almost my entire life, I totally get it. No one wants to watch their painstakingly created skincare routine go to waste. The trick with acne-prone skin is to use mild products that will not trigger it. Even if you think you’re using all the right products because they claim to be non-comedogenic or acne-friendly and still break out, it’s probably because the ingredients in this industry are not very strictly regulated. I understand how that can be vexing, but the best option in any scenario is to educate yourself. Which is why we’re going to talk about water-based makeup.
Water based makeup is exactly what it sounds like. It consists of mostly water-based ingredients with little to no silicones, therefore making it super lightweight, hydrating and non-clogging. These products will often have a dewy finish, with medium coverage and feel like second skin. The best part is they are super versatile, in the sense that they suit all skin types and concerns. Read on for a detailed list of some of our favourite tried and tested products that will not evoke any reactions from your skin.
Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer
This is like a tall glass of water for your skin. The way this primer has illuminated my skin, even on days I’m dead tired is unbelievable. It has a lightweight texture and what I love most is that it’s formulated with coconut water and probiotics- which means it can be used even on days you don’t want a lot or any makeup on at all. But for when you do, I promise, it will be the smoothest makeup application you’ve ever experienced!
Available here.
Ruby’s Organics Skin Tint Mattifying Foundation
Get this for the most natural finish; the skin tint foundation packs a punch with just plant-based ingredients that are good for the skin and is super blendable. The shade range is just right for Indian skin, and trust me when I say my skin could breathe like nothing was on it with this product.
Get it here.
NYX Cosmetics Bare With Me Concealer Serum
A rare makeup-skincare hybrid concealer, this one has a thick serum consistency and provides very natural-looking coverage for dark undereyes, pigmentation and blemishes. It has been infused with tremella mushroom, cica and green tea to calm any angry skin issues.
Available here.
Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter
A cult favourite multipurpose product, this can be used as a primer, highlighter, contour or on its own just to give you a subtle glow or mixed with your foundation for a dewy finish. It has never failed me and makes my skin look like I’ve hydrated and slept perfectly well- and we could all use some of that.
Get it here.
Benefit Cosmetics Lip & Cheek Tint
The iconic Benetint comes in other colour variations, as well and all of them are guaranteed to give your face and lips the most natural, flushed and healthy dose of colour. It’s virtually impossible to go overboard when applying this product.
Available here.
Chanel Les Beiges Highlighting Fluid
A sheer highlighter that makes sure your face catches the light at just the right places, no matter where you are. It has this texture that just melts into your skin for that glowing-from-within look.
Available here.
M.A.C Dazzleshadow Liquid
For years , I thought I’d never apply eyeshadow because the conventional ones would irritate the skin around my eyes. All of that changed when I tried this liquid eyeshadow that I can’t even tell is on my lids. It comes in gorgeous satin and glitter finishes. Bonus: It doesn’t settle in your eyelid lines or crease ever!
Get it here.
Givenchy L’Interdit Mascara Black N1
Arguably one of the most volumizing mascaras I’ve ever used- I’m talking literal doll-like eyelashes. For a water-based mascara, this one is actually quite creamy, and it goes without saying that it won’t form clumps. I like that the wand is super comfortable to use and the bristles can coat each eyelash in one go. It’s also quite nourishing and I faced zero lash loss getting the mascara off, which is always a good sign.
Available here.
e.l.f. Cosmetics Makeup Mist & Set Setting Spray
With a relatively clean formula for a setting spray, this one does the job beautifully. It has soothing ingredients, like Aloe Vera, cucumber and green tea and holds makeup well for the entire day. The mist dispenses very well and I really do feel like it calmed my acne down.
Get it here.
