Bismuth Oxychloride and Acne

For many young girls suffering from acne the makeup they wear to cover the acne up, might actually be the very thing causing the acne in the first place.

Bismuth Oxychloride is a compound that is found in many foundations. The problem is that with many people suffering from sensitive skin, bismuth oxychloride can be an irritant and can actually cause skin problems such as acne and or Rosacea.

bismuth oxychloride is most commonly used as a filler in foundations and blushers. Its provides the nice sheen that foundations offer, without skin looking oily.  It also helps with the adhesion (the way the makeup sticks to your skin)

However as an irritant, it can cause Acne. The small crystals that make up the compound bismuth oxychloride can clog pores and scratch the surface of the skin causing irritation, rashes and even swelling. 

Bismuth Oxychloride is also classified as a heavy metal, so its use is strictly governed by most civilised counties.  Cheap imports however do sometimes contain higher levels of bismuth oxychloride.

The best thing to do, if you are worried about Acne is to read the label of the ingredients and look for bismuth oxychloride or any compound containing bismuth. Also avoid other "natural minerals" as they are often not as natural as they would appear to be.