Makeup means something different to each of us. For some of us, it serves as a magical, almost therapeutic tool that we use to express ourselves and for others, it symbolizes a world of confusion. And then there’s the notorious reputation surrounding it for being a havoc creator among those of us with acne-prone skin – which frustrates me because I wish everyone could enjoy makeup without pretending to be this bad guy who 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 most of my life, I completely understand. No one wants to see their painstakingly created skincare routine go to waste. The trick with acne-prone skin is to use gentle products that won’t trigger it. Even if you think you’re using all the right products because they claim to be non-comedogenic or anti-acne and they still break out, it’s probably because the ingredients in this industry aren’t very strictly regulated. I understand how frustrating this can be, but the best option in all scenarios is to educate yourself. This is why we are 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, making it super lightweight, hydrating, and non-clogging. These products will often have a dewy finish, with medium coverage and feel like a second skin. The best part is that they are very versatile, in the sense that they are suitable for all skin types and problems. Read on for a detailed list of some of our favorite, tried and tested products that won’t cause any reactions from your skin.

Too Faced Hangover Regenerating Facial Primer

It’s like a big glass of water for your skin. The way this primer has brightened my skin, even on days when I’m super tired, is amazing. It has a light texture and what I like the most is that it is formulated with coconut water and probiotics, which means it can be used even on days when you don’t want to lots or no makeup at all. But when you do, I promise you, 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; tinted foundation packs a punch with only plant-based ingredients that are good for the skin and blend seamlessly. The shade range is perfect for Indian skin and trust me when I say my skin could breathe like nothing was wrong 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 under-eyes, pigmentation and blemishes. It has been infused with tremella mushroom, cica and green tea to calm any skin concerns.

Available here.

Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Impeccable Filter

A cult versatile product, it can be used as a base, highlighter, contour or on its own simply to give you a subtle glow or mixed with your foundation for a dewy finish. It’s never failed me and leaves my skin feeling perfectly slept in and hydrated – and we could all use a little of that.

Get it here.

Benefit Cosmetics Lip and Cheek Tint

The iconic Benetint is also available in other color variations and all are guaranteed to give your face and lips the most natural, reddish and healthy dose of color. It is virtually impossible to go too far when applying this product.

Available here.

Chanel Les Beiges Illuminating Fluid

A transparent highlighter that ensures your face catches light in all the right places, no matter where you are. It has that texture that melts into your skin for a glow-from-within look.

Available here.

MAC Dazzleshadow Liquid

For years, I thought I would never apply eyeshadow because conventional eyeshadows would irritate the skin around my eyes. All that changed when I tried this liquid eyeshadow that I can’t even tell is on my lids. It is available in stunning satin and glitter finishes. Bonus: it never settles into the wrinkles or creases of your eyelids!

Get it here.

Givenchy L’Interdit Black Mascara N1

Arguably one of the most volumizing mascaras I’ve ever used – I’m literally talking about doll-like lashes. For a water-based mascara, this one is actually quite creamy, and needless to say, it won’t clump. I like that the wand is very comfortable to use and the bristles can cover each lash in one go. It’s also quite nourishing and I haven’t experienced any shedding of lashes when removing the mascara, which is always a good sign.

Available here.

elf Cosmetics Makeup Mist and Setting Spray

With a relatively clean formula for a setting spray, this one does the job wonderfully. It contains soothing ingredients, like aloe vera, cucumber and green tea, and holds makeup well all day. The mist diffuses very well and I really feel like it has calmed my acne.

Get it here.