When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Foundation For Cystic Acne (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a foundation to cover cystic acne, it can be overwhelming to sift through the countless options available on the market. It's essential to choose a product that provides coverage and blends seamlessly into your skin while also nourishing and protecting it.

Before purchasing a foundation for cystic acne, consider your skin type and tone, the coverage level you need, and the ingredients in the product. For oily or acne-prone skin, look for a foundation that's oil-free and non-comedogenic to avoid clogging pores. Additionally, choose a formula that provides full coverage to conceal blemishes and redness. It's also crucial to ensure the product contains ingredients that hydrate and soothe skin, like aloe vera, vitamin E, or hyaluronic acid.

Are you tired of feeling embarrassed or self-conscious about your acne? Do you want to find a foundation that provides coverage while also improving the appearance and health of your skin? With the right foundation for cystic acne, you can feel confident and beautiful in your skin. Keep reading to discover more tips and advice on choosing the best foundation product to suit your needs and start your journey to clear and radiant skin today.

10 Best Foundation For Cystic Acne

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for those seeking high coverage foundation with sun protection.
2
This product is ideal for women with combination to oily skin who want a liquid foundation to combat blemishes.
3
Ideal for treating cystic acne, hormonal acne, pimples, and blemishes on the face for adults of any gender.
4
The product is ideal for treating severe acne and reducing redness.
5
The product is ideal for exfoliating the skin and addressing issues such as blackheads, enlarged pores, wrinkles, and fine lines.
6
This product is ideal for treating cystic acne on the face, back, and body using salicylic acid and tea tree oil.
7
The product is ideal for treating acne-prone, sensitive skin with a 3-step system including cleanser, toner, and spot treatment.
8
Ideal for treating acne and pimples, absorbing excess oil and promoting fast healing, with three sizes available for coverage.
9
It is ideal for achieving a glowing complexion that lasts up to 24 hours.
10
Treating acne, including cystic acne, with benzoyl peroxide and glycolic acid to reduce inflammation, redness, and breakouts.
This product is ideal for those seeking high coverage foundation with sun protection.
This product is ideal for women with combination to oily skin who want a liquid foundation to combat blemishes.
Ideal for treating cystic acne, hormonal acne, pimples, and blemishes on the face for adults of any gender.
The product is ideal for treating severe acne and reducing redness.
The product is ideal for exfoliating the skin and addressing issues such as blackheads, enlarged pores, wrinkles, and fine lines.
This product is ideal for treating cystic acne on the face, back, and body using salicylic acid and tea tree oil.
The product is ideal for treating acne-prone, sensitive skin with a 3-step system including cleanser, toner, and spot treatment.
Ideal for treating acne and pimples, absorbing excess oil and promoting fast healing, with three sizes available for coverage.
It is ideal for achieving a glowing complexion that lasts up to 24 hours.
Treating acne, including cystic acne, with benzoyl peroxide and glycolic acid to reduce inflammation, redness, and breakouts.

1. Dermablend Cover Creme High Coverage Foundation With Spf 30, 10n Warm Ivory, 1 Oz.

Get a full coverage, natural finish with this amazing product. Its creamy texture ensures that it never looks cakey or masky on your skin. You can wear it for up to 16 hours without worrying about smudging or transferring, provided you set it with Dermablend Setting Powder. The best part is that it repairs and strengthens the skin barrier, making it a great choice for those who want to take care of their skin while looking great.

Achieve a flawless look that lasts all day with this product. Its long-lasting formula ensures that you don't have to worry about touch-ups throughout the day. Whether you're going to work or attending a special event, this product has got you covered. Plus, it's smudge and transfer-resistant, so you don't have to worry about it rubbing off on your clothes or other surfaces.

Looking for a product that can give you full coverage without looking heavy or cakey? Look no further than this amazing product. Its creamy texture ensures that it glides on smoothly and evenly, giving you a natural-looking finish. Plus, it's smudge and transfer-resistant, so you can wear it with confidence all day long. And with its skin-strengthening properties, it's a great choice for anyone who wants to improve the health of their skin while looking great.

Pros

  • Provides full coverage with a natural finish
  • Creamy texture ensures it never looks cakey or masky
  • Smudge and transfer-resistant for up to 16 hours
  • Repairs and strengthens the skin barrier

2. Blemish Control Foundation By Clinique – 1oz.

The Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Liquid Makeup in CN 74 Beige is a must-have for people with combination skin. This product is specially formulated to fight blemishes and provide a flawless finish. Its lightweight formula is oil-free, making it perfect for those with oily or combination skin. It is also non-drying, so it won't leave your skin feeling tight or uncomfortable.

This liquid makeup offers buildable coverage that can be customized to your needs. It can effectively cover up blemishes, redness, and other imperfections without clogging pores or causing breakouts. The product is also long-wearing, so you can enjoy a smooth, even complexion for hours.

The Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Liquid Makeup is easy to apply and blend. Simply use your fingertips, a makeup sponge, or a brush to apply the product evenly to your face. You can also layer it for added coverage.

Overall, the Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Liquid Makeup in CN 74 Beige is a reliable option for people with combination skin who want to achieve a flawless complexion while fighting blemishes at the same time.

Pros

  • Specially formulated to fight blemishes and provide a flawless finish
  • Lightweight and oil-free formula
  • Non-drying, won't leave skin feeling tight or uncomfortable
  • Buildable coverage that can be customized to your needs
  • Long-wearing, offers a smooth, even complexion for hours
  • Easy to apply and blend

Cons

  • – Limited range of shades available

3. Clearskin: Overnight Spot Treatment For Hormonal Acne

Combat stubborn cystic acne with this nature-powered treatment that uses Bentonite Clay, Sulfur, and Tea Tree Oil to effectively pull out and dry out acne. It is suitable for both women and men and can also be used as an acne treatment for buttocks. With over 120 uses per 0.5oz container, it is a long-lasting solution for cystic acne treatment for the face and body, and it can also get rid of whiteheads and blackheads. This cystic acne overnight treatment provides fast and noticeable results in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for sensitive skin. It is vegan, cruelty-free, and free of parabens, making it a perfect spot treatment for cystic pimples. For best results, try it with our 5-step acne treatment kit that includes an acne face wash, acne face cream, salicylic acid acne toner, acne face scrub, and acne patches. We also recommend trying our salicylic acid spot treatment and acne scar treatment consistently.

Pros

  • Effectively combats cystic acne with natural ingredients
  • Long-lasting solution with over 120 uses per 0.5oz container
  • Fast and noticeable results in just 20 minutes
  • Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
  • Vegan, cruelty-free, and free of parabens
  • Can also be used as an acne treatment for buttocks

4. Severe Acne Relief Kit: Paula's Choice Clear.

Fight persistent acne, breakouts, blemishes, and blackheads with the Paula's Choice CLEAR Extra Strength Acne Kit. This 3-step skin care system is designed to work quickly, combat and control acne, without causing dryness or redness. It effectively unclogs and minimizes the look of pores while improving signs of sensitivity. The kit includes three products: CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser, CLEAR Extra Strength Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution with 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA), and CLEAR Extra Strength Daily Skin Clearing Treatment with 5% Benzoyl Peroxide.

The gentle yet powerful formula of the Paula's Choice CLEAR Extra Strength Acne Kit is suitable for normal, dry, oily, and combination skin types – including skin prone to cystic acne. It provides skin-perfecting, pore-clearing, and hydrating benefits to leave your skin looking its best. Use it as your daily skincare routine in the morning and evening to see and maintain the best results. Always finish your morning routine with SPF 30+.

In addition to the products in the kit, Paula's Choice CLEAR collection also includes other products like Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+ for daytime, the CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer for weightless hydration, and the CLEAR Purifying Clay Mask to control excess shine & clogged pores.

Paula's Choice Skincare is known for making products that work. They use science-backed formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts. Their products are fragrance-free, paraben-free, and free from any fluff.

Pros

  • Effectively combats and controls persistent acne
  • Improves signs of sensitivity
  • Gentle yet powerful formula
  • Suitable for normal, dry, oily, and combination skin types
  • Provides skin-perfecting, pore-clearing, and hydrating benefits
  • Includes other products for comprehensive skincare routine
  • Science-backed formulas

Cons

  • – Packaging may vary

5. Clear Skin Solution: Paula's Choice Bha Exfoliant

The Gentle Non-Abrasive Leave-On Exfoliator is an effective skincare solution that helps to unclog and diminish enlarged pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, smooth wrinkles, and brighten and even out skin tone. This leave-on exfoliator contains 2% BHA (Beta hydroxy acid) that combats redness, wrinkles, aging, enlarged pores, and blackheads. The packaging may vary but the formula remains the same.

The Beta hydroxy acid (BHA), also known as salicylic acid, mimics the natural exfoliation process of younger skin by helping it shed extra layers while unclogging and clearing pores. It hydrates, brightens, and smooths fine lines without causing any abrasion. This unique, non-abrasive exfoliant is gentle enough for daily use on all skin types and visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles.

Unlike an abrasive face scrub that can cause micro-tears, Paula's Choice facial exfoliants are gentler on delicate skin of the face and neck. A BHA leave-on exfoliator delivers hydration and can exfoliate directly inside the pore, improving how the pore works. Use Paula's Choice for highly effective skin care solutions for the face and body. The full line of facial cleansers, exfoliators, toners, moisturizers, serums, eye creams, facial masks, sunscreens, body washes, and more are made to care for every kind of skin.

Pros

  • Contains 2% BHA that helps to unclog and diminish enlarged pores
  • Exfoliates dead skin cells, smooth wrinkles, and brighten and even out skin tone
  • Gentle enough for daily use on all skin types and visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles
  • Hydrates, brightens, and smooths fine lines without causing any abrasion
  • Gentler on delicate skin of the face and neck

6. Emerald Acne Fighter: Advanced Spot Treatment

Say goodbye to cystic, hormonal, and severe acne with this powerful spot treatment cream. Not only is it effective in treating existing acne, but it also prevents the regrowth of new ones. The natural and gentle formula contains salicylic acid, tea tree oil, aloe vera, and other natural active ingredients, which helps in balancing oil levels and preventing acne without causing any harm to the skin.

The improved bottle design is a solution to the disadvantage of the traditional bottle, which caused the cream to dry out and harden. With this new design, the cream can be used for an extended period without drying out. To use, cleanse and tone the skin, then apply a thick layer of the cream on the affected area and leave it overnight. It is recommended to use it 1-2 times a day with at least 4 hours between applications, and 2-3 times for severe acne for at least 4 weeks. It is also advised to continue using the cream even after the acne is no longer visible until there is no sign of regrowth.

Pros

  • Effectively tackles cystic, hormonal, and severe acne
  • Prevents regrowth of new acne
  • Contains natural and gentle ingredients
  • Balances oil levels
  • Improved bottle design

7. Effaclar Acne Treatment System: 3 Steps, 2 Months.

The Acne Kit with Effaclar Duo, recommended by dermatologists, is the perfect solution for those struggling with acne. This kit is formulated with dermatological acne treatment ingredients, such as Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO), to reduce blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. It is an oil-free formula that targets the major causes of acne as observed by dermatologists.

The Effaclar Duo in this kit is the only one of its kind and is highly recommended by dermatologists. It reduces up to 60% of acne in just 10 days with visible results starting day 1. This amazing kit has won Allure’s Best of Beauty Award for Best Acne Treatment 3 times.

The Acne Kit contains an acne wash/cleanser, an acne facial toner, and an acne spot treatment cream. Use these products together as part of your daily skincare routine and get ready to say goodbye to acne for good.

Pros

  • Reduces up to 60% of acne in just 10 days
  • Visible results starting day 1
  • Formulated with dermatological acne treatment ingredients
  • Oil-free formula
  • Targets major causes of acne as observed by dermatologists
  • Effaclar Duo recommended by dermatologists
  • 3-time winner of Allure’s Best of Beauty Award for Best Acne Treatment

8. Hydrocolloid Pimple Patch – Fast Healing And Cover.

The Original Pimple Patch is a highly effective 1st generation patch that has been loved by many over the years. It is also highly raved in the media, which is a testament to its effectiveness. This A.D.F dressing hydrocolloid patch can protect the concerned area effectively and create a moist environment, which can speed up the healing process. Say goodbye to squeezing or popping pimples, as this patch can do it for you without any pain. Every pack contains a total of 24 patches in sizes S (10 dots), M (5 dots), and L (9 dots), which are designed to cover multiple pimples all at once. To use, simply cleanse the area around the problem spot, select a bigger size patch than the problem spot, and attach the patch to the spot. All COSRX products are formulated with skin-friendly ingredients that alleviate irritated skin. They are hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested, and do not contain any parabens, sulfates, or phthalates. Please note that the expiration date on the product is written in the South Korean format, which goes by Year/Month/Date. For instance, if the expiration date on the package is 2024.11.15, this refers to November 15, 2024.

Pros

  • Highly effective 1st generation patch that has been loved by many over the years
  • Creates a moist environment that can speed up the healing process
  • Designed in three different sizes to cover multiple pimples all at once
  • Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested
  • Does not contain any parabens, sulfates, or phthalates

9. L'oreal Paris Makeup Infallible Up To 24hr Pro-Glow Foundation, 202 Creamy Natural, 1 Fl; Oz.

The Infallible Pro Glow Foundation with SPF is a long-lasting, medium-coverage foundation that is lightweight and creamy, providing a smooth application and a radiant finish that lasts. It is specially formulated to be hydrating, making it ideal for normal to dry skin types. This foundation is perfect for those who want a natural-looking glow that lasts all day.

L'Oreal's Infallible line of face makeup is expertly formulated to provide long-lasting color, definition, and coverage. From foundations to contour kits and powders, this line has everything you need to achieve a flawless look that lasts for hours on end.

L'Oreal Paris has all the face makeup products you need to achieve a smooth, even finish. From BB creams to blush, highlighters to concealers, and contouring makeup to enhance your features, L'Oreal has it all. With L'Oreal, you can create any look you want, whether you're going for a natural daytime look or a bold nighttime look.

L'Oreal Paris is committed to helping you look and feel your best with our full line of makeup products. From foundations and concealers to eyeshadow palettes and lipsticks, we have everything you need to create the look you want.

For best results, pair the Infallible Pro Glow Foundation with the Infallible Pro Glow Face Primer. This primer will prepare, perfect, and illuminate your skin while providing hydration for better makeup application.

Pros

  • Long-lasting medium coverage foundation that is lightweight and creamy
  • Provides a smooth application and a radiant finish that lasts
  • Hydrating formula is ideal for normal to dry skin types
  • Expertly formulated to provide long-lasting color, definition, and coverage
  • Full line of face makeup products to achieve any look
  • Infallible Pro Glow Face Primer is perfect to pair with the foundation for better makeup application

10. Clear Skin Serum With Micronized Benzoyl Peroxide.

The Quick Acne Spot Treatment fights acne bacteria on the spot and reduces pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads within 24 hours. It effectively dissolves pore-clogging oils without over-drying your skin, which prevents future breakouts. This acne serum contains the purest form of Benzoyl Peroxide 5%, which is a United States Pharmacopeia (USP) grade ingredient that penetrates deep within the pores, eliminating current breakouts and preventing new ones. This ingredient is proven to be one of the most effective acne-fighting ingredients available in the market.

Glycolic Acid 5% is also present in this serum, which reduces acne scarring. This ingredient, in the form of sugar cane, gently exfoliates to increase cellular turnover and remove cellular debris, allowing for a clearer complexion with a reduction in scarring. This acne serum reduces the oil in pores up to 85%, making it effective on the face, chest, and back to unclog pores, reduce redness, and inflammation.

This Dermatologist recommended acne treatment serum is safe for different skin types like dry, oily, combination, and normal. The formula is also paraben-free, sulfate-free, and cruelty-free.

Pros

  • Quickly fights acne bacteria and reduces pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads within 24 hours
  • The purest form of Benzoyl Peroxide 5% eliminates current breakouts and prevents new ones
  • Glycolic Acid 5% gently exfoliates to increase cellular turnover and remove cellular debris, allowing for a clearer complexion with a reduction in scarring
  • Effective on the face, chest, and back to unclog pores, reduce redness, and inflammation
  • Safe for different skin types like dry, oily, combination, and normal
  • Paraben-free, sulfate-free, and cruelty-free formula

Best Foundation For Cystic Acne FAQs

Are there any specific brands or types of foundation recommended for those with cystic acne?

Yes, there are specific brands and types of foundation that are recommended for those with cystic acne. The most important thing to look for in a foundation for cystic acne is non-comedogenic ingredients. This means that the foundation won't clog your pores and cause further breakouts. Some popular brands that offer non-comedogenic foundations for cystic acne include Neutrogena, Clinique, and BareMinerals. Additionally, it's important to choose a foundation that provides coverage without being too heavy or greasy. Look for a lightweight, oil-free formula that won't exacerbate your acne. It's also a good idea to choose a foundation with ingredients that can help soothe and heal your skin, such as salicylic acid or tea tree oil. Ultimately, the best foundation for cystic acne will depend on your individual skin type and needs, so it's important to consult with a dermatologist to find the right product for you.

Are there any tips for applying foundation to cover up cystic acne without exacerbating the condition?

Yes, there are several tips for applying foundation to cover up cystic acne without worsening the condition. Firstly, it is essential to choose a non-comedogenic foundation that is free from oils and other pore-clogging ingredients. This will prevent further breakouts and allow the skin to breathe. It is also important to prep the skin before applying foundation by cleansing, toning, and moisturizing. This will help to create a smooth base for the foundation to adhere to.

When applying foundation, use a light hand and build up coverage gradually. Avoid using a heavy hand, as this can clog pores and exacerbate acne. Use a damp beauty sponge or a foundation brush to blend the foundation into the skin evenly. Be sure to blend the foundation down the neck to avoid a visible line of demarcation.

Lastly, set the foundation with a translucent powder to prevent oil buildup and prolong wear time. Remember to remove the foundation thoroughly at the end of the day to prevent further breakouts. By following these tips, you can effectively cover up cystic acne without worsening the condition.

Can wearing foundation worsen cystic acne breakouts?

Yes, wearing foundation can worsen cystic acne breakouts. Foundation is a cosmetic product that is used to cover blemishes and even out skin tone. However, if the foundation is not oil-free, non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic, it can clog pores and lead to the formation of new acne. Cystic acne is a severe form of acne that is characterized by painful, large, and deep pimples that can take weeks to heal. It is caused by hormonal imbalances and genetics, but external factors such as skincare products can exacerbate it. Therefore, it is crucial to choose the right foundation for your skin type and acne condition. Look for foundations that are labeled as oil-free, non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic. Also, avoid wearing foundation for extended periods and always remove it before going to bed. Finally, consult a dermatologist if you have severe and persistent cystic acne breakouts.

How can I ensure my foundation won't clog my pores and contribute to cystic acne?

The first step to ensuring your foundation doesn't clog your pores and contribute to cystic acne is to choose the right formula. Look for foundations that are labeled as non-comedogenic, meaning they are less likely to clog pores. Additionally, opt for formulas that are oil-free and lightweight, as heavier formulas can be more likely to clog pores.

Another important factor to consider is your application technique. Use a clean makeup brush or sponge to apply your foundation, as using your fingers can transfer bacteria and oil onto your skin. Make sure to also cleanse your skin thoroughly before applying foundation to ensure that your pores are clean.

If you're prone to cystic acne, it's also important to look for foundations with acne-fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. These ingredients can help to unclog pores and prevent breakouts.

Lastly, make sure to remove your foundation completely before going to bed to prevent buildup of bacteria and oil on your skin. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your foundation won't contribute to cystic acne.

What are the best ingredients to look for in a foundation for cystic acne?

When it comes to choosing a foundation for cystic acne, it's important to look for ingredients that are non-comedogenic, meaning they won't clog pores and exacerbate acne breakouts. Some of the best ingredients to look for in a foundation for cystic acne include salicylic acid, which helps to exfoliate clogged pores and reduce inflammation, and benzoyl peroxide, which has anti-bacterial properties that can help to kill acne-causing bacteria.

Another ingredient to look for is niacinamide, which can help to reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne. Additionally, foundations that contain oil-absorbing ingredients like kaolin clay or silica can help to control excess oil production, which can also contribute to acne breakouts.

It's important to note that everyone's skin is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you have cystic acne, it may be helpful to consult with a dermatologist or esthetician to determine the best foundation for your specific skin type and concerns.

Leave a Comment