Is makeup with skincare benefits really worth the hype? – Lifestyle

Dermatologists note that while the trend toward hybrid products represents an improvement over traditional makeup, it can also be somewhat misleading. These hybrid offerings are particularly beneficial for those who frequently wear makeup, as many conventional makeup products can adversely affect the skin in various ways.

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When a foundation claims to hydrate your skin and shield you from sun damage, it certainly seems appealing. Likewise, a concealer that promises to conceal and treat blemishes feels like a double win. Driven by the rising interest in skincare, makeup brands are increasingly introducing products that combine beauty and skincare benefits, thus establishing a new hybrid category.

This fusion of skincare and makeup has become a foundational element for many new brands entering the market. From foundations and concealers enriched with hyaluronic acid to color-correcting creams offering SPF protection, serum blushes, and vitamin-packed mascaras, products with skincare advantages are generating considerable excitement in the beauty industry. Lip oils, currently a must-have beauty item, also belong to this beauty-meets-skincare category.

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But do these hybrid products genuinely deserve the hype, or are they merely cleverly marketed promises?

Makeup Can Damage Your Skin

Dermatologists point out that although the movement toward hybrid products marks an improvement over conventional makeup, it can also be somewhat deceptive. These hybrid offerings can be particularly advantageous for individuals who frequently wear makeup, as many traditional products can affect the skin in several ways.

“How makeup affects your skin depends on several factors, such as how often you wear it, how long you leave it on, the quality of the products, and most importantly, your skin type,” says Delhi-based dermatologist Dr Geetika Srivastava.

Makeup can cause clogged pores, leading to a lackluster complexion and acne.

“Makeup, especially once the bottle is open and exposed to the environment, becomes prone to contamination. Brushes and beauty blenders can harbor bacteria, and when those bacteria come into contact with your skin, they can cause breakouts and even pus-filled pimples,” adds Dr. Srivastava.

The wrong makeup can leave dry skin drier and oily skin oilier. Several makeup products also cause perioral pigmentation (dark or discolored skin around the mouth). “Some lipsticks, especially mattifying ones with unnatural shades, can lead to pigmentation around the lips due to ingredients like bromic acid and lead,” explains Dr Srivastava.

Much also hinges on your habits. For example, failing to clean makeup brushes and sponges can spell disaster, as can using expired beauty products. Sleeping with makeup on or wearing it for prolonged periods can also harm your skin. Poor product choices often play a significant role as well.

How Do Makeup-Skincare Hybrid Products Help?

The emergence of skincare-infused makeup is based on the notion that since makeup remains on the skin for extended durations, it can also aid in protection and healing. Popular skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C, salicylic acid, plant-based oils, niacinamide, and ceramides are incorporated into these beauty product formulations and marketed accordingly.

For instance, makeup products containing salicylic acid are often advertised as anti-acne solutions. Those enriched with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or plant-based oils are labeled ‘hydrating’ and ‘moisturizing.’ However, the effectiveness ultimately depends on the quality and concentration of the skincare ingredients used.

“Active skincare ingredients in makeup are meant for protection, not repair. They help by adding an extra layer of antioxidants and anti-pollution agents to the skin. It would help if you still had the basic routine of toner, eye cream, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen to prepare the skin for makeup and repair at night,” says Dr. Rinky Kapoor, dermatologist and dermato-surgeon at The Esthetic Clinics, Mumbai.

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“The inclusion of skincare benefits in makeup is a positive development. Traditional makeup primarily focuses on coverage and aesthetics, but newer products with ingredients like SPF, antioxidants, or hyaluronic acid provide additional skin protection and hydration. These hybrid products can help prevent common issues like dryness, irritation, or sun damage. At the same time, you wear makeup, making them a better option for long-term skin health,” adds Dinyar Workingboxwalla, a Mumbai-based celebrity aesthetician.

Meanwhile, some experts view these hybrid products as ‘Jack of all trades, master of none.’

“Often, there isn’t enough concentration of actives like Vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid in makeup for it to deliver results,” says Dr Srivastava.

“Additionally, the way makeup is applied—often in thin layers—can further reduce the potential benefits,” says Dr Akanksha Sanghvi, dermatologist and founder of Oprava Aesthetics, Mumbai.

It’s crucial to consider the concentration of skincare ingredients, mainly when investing more in skincare-makeup products. Furthermore, these hybrid offerings should be separate from a comprehensive skincare routine.

“Makeup products containing active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, or SPF can provide surface-level benefits such as hydration or protection. However, for deeper skin concerns like anti-aging or acne treatment, it’s important to supplement makeup with a dedicated skincare routine,” says Workingboxwalla.

Even brands selling hybrid products agree on this.

“Skincare-infused makeup helps protect and nourish the skin, especially when wearing it for long hours. It’s like a mini treatment that works while you’re out and about. As dermatologists often emphasize, there’s no absolute substitute for a solid skincare regimen. However, skincare-infused makeup can be considered a complementary layer of care,” says Ananya Kapur, founder of Type Beauty.

“If you’re using a foundation with sunscreen, it doesn’t mean you don’t need regular sunscreen; it only means that touch-ups will be easier. Similarly, acne-fighting makeup will reduce the chances of breakouts but is not an acne treatment, and a jojoba oil lipstick will reduce the need for applying lip balm often,” says Dr Rinky Kapoor.

So, who can benefit from skincare-infused makeup?

While using skincare-infused makeup isn’t essential, it can benefit individuals who frequently apply beauty products. The key is to view these items as an extra layer of protection, especially when the concentration of skincare ingredients is substantial. In most instances, these hybrid products cannot effectively repair or heal the skin and should be used alongside a dedicated skincare regimen.

“If you wear makeup regularly, hybrid products can be worth the investment,” says Workingboxwalla.

For instance, some concealers assert they can treat acne in four days. While you might choose to use a direct anti-acne treatment, selecting a hybrid product is a better option if wearing makeup is a priority. This approach prevents additional harm to your skin and supports faster healing.

Similarly, opting for a blush infused with skincare ingredients can also be wise.

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“Blushers can be problematic for dry skin, as they tend to appear papery and flaky on the cheeks when using powder blushers. Those infused with argan oil, shea butter, and other ingredients are great for people with dry skin seeking a supple, dewy finish,” says Dr Sanghvi.

Even if you don’t wear makeup frequently, there are effective strategies to minimize makeup-related damage. These include selecting products appropriate for your skin type, maintaining a consistent skincare routine, using clean makeup tools, gently removing makeup, opting for non-comedogenic products, and refraining from sharing your makeup with others.

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