Do you experience breakouts and can’t seem to stay clear? Your skincare and haircare may be to blame. If you have acne-prone skin, I highly recommend that you check your products for comedogenic ingredients before applying anything to your skin or hair. While some ingredients might not lead to clogged pores, they can still cause issues for acne-prone skin. It’s important to educate yourself about these ingredients and read labels carefully. If you notice new pimples forming when you were clear before, taking a closer look at the products you’ve been using is the next step.
We’ve outlined the top pore-clogging ingredients to completely avoid below, along with other ingredients to look out for if you have acne-prone skin. If you are struggling to get clear, personalized advice is available from one of our acne specialists through our online Acne Coaching Program.
Pore-Clogging Ingredients
TOP PORE-CLOGGING INGREDIENTS TO ALWAYS AVOID
- Acetylated Lanolin Alcohol
- Cetyl Acetate
- Cocoa Butter
- Coconut Butter
- Ethylhexyl Palmitate
- Glyceryl-3-Diistoreate
- Glyceryl Stearate SE
- Isocetyl Alcohol
- Isocetyl Stearate
- Isodecyl Oleate
- Isopropyl Isostearate
- Isopropyl Linolate
- Isopropyl Myristate
- Isopropyl Palmitate
- Isostearyl Isostearate
- Isostearyl Neopentanoate
- Myristyl Myristate
- Myristyl Lactate
- Laureth-4
- Lauric Acid
- Octyl Stearate
- Oleyl Alcohol
- Oleth-3
- Polyglyceryl-3-Diisostearate
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- Stearyl Heptanoate
- Steareth-10
- Wheat Germ Oil
- Xylene
FORMULATION MATTERS
Research on many of these ingredients clearly shows that formulation and refinement of the ingredients make a big difference in comedogenicity. A great example is olive oil, which has a comedogenicity rating of 4 when unrefined and a comedogenicity rating of 0 when refined. Because of this, we recommend treating the below list similar to the way you might treat an elimination diet. If you are currently dealing with acne, eliminate these ingredients until your breakouts are under control, and then try adding them back in one by one.
At Art of Skin Care, we mark formulations we know to be acne-safe with a special badge so you can shop with confidence. These are formulas we have tested extensively, proving their efficacy and safety for acne-prone skin.
ADDITIONAL PORE-CLOGGING INGREDIENTS
The comedogenicity of the following ingredients depends greatly on formulation and ingredient refinement. If you are struggling to get or stay clear, consider using an “elimination diet” approach with these skincare ingredients.
- Acetylated Lanolin
- Algae Extract
- Algin
- Avocado Oil/Butter
- Argan Oil
- Almond/Sweet Almond oil
- Butyl Stearate
- Carrageenan
- Cetearyl Alcohol + Ceteareth 20 (only when combined)
- Chondrus Crispus (aka Irish Moss or Carageenan Moss)
- Chlorella
- Coal Tar
- Coconut Alkanes
- Coconut Oil
- Colloidal Sulfur
- Corn Oil
- Cotton Awws Oil
- Cotton Seed Oil
- D & C Red # 17
- D & C Red # 21
- D & C Red # 3
- D & C Red # 30
- D & C Red # 36
- Decyl Oleate
- Dioctyl Succinate
- Disodium Monooleamido PEG 2- Sulfosuccinate
- Ethoxylated Lanolin
- Hexadecyl Alcohol
- Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil
- Kelp
- Laminaria Digitata Extract
- Laminaria Saccharina Extract (Laminaria Saccharine)
- Laureth-23
- Lauroyl Lysine
- Mink Oil
- Myristic Acid
- Myristyl Lactate
- Octyl Palmitate
- PEG 16 Lanolin
- PEG 200 Dilaurate
- PEG 8 Stearate
- PG Monostearate
- PPG 2 Myristyl Propionate
- Plankton
- Potassium Chloride
- Propylene Glycol Monostearate
- Red Algae
- Seaweed
- Sesame Oil
- Shark Liver Oil
- Shea Butter
- Solulan 16
- Sorbitan Oleate
- Soybean Oil
- Spirulina
- Stearic Acid Tea
- Sulfated Castor Oil
- Sulfated Jojoba Oil
- Wheat Germ Glyceride
Ingredient Considerations
Believe it or not, natural oils can be some of the worst offenders. While some oils may not be pore-clogging, they cause inflammation in the hair follicle and can cause severely inflamed acne. Oils such as avocado and lanolin are mildly comedogenic and can be a problem if combined with other pore-clogging ingredients or if not properly refined.
“Oil-free” does not mean that a product is safe from acne-causing ingredients. Check every product against the ingredient list before it touches your skin.
Additionally, some prescription products, such as the cream form of Retin A, have pore-clogging and acnegenic ingredients. Many over-the-counter acne medications also have the potential to cause breakouts, so always be aware of the ingredients in your products.
A note about dimethicone: There has been a lot of misinformation swirling around about an ingredient called dimethicone. People are concerned that this smoothing, protective agent in many skincare products will clog pores. The answer to that is no, dimethicone is not an acne-causing ingredient. For more information about the benefits of dimethicone, see our blog post: What Is The Truth About Dimethicone?
Acne-Safe Makeup
Loose powder mineral makeup tends to be the safest choice for a foundation, but should still be checked for acnegenic ingredients. For a cream foundation, we recommend Illuminare makeup. If you prefer a more matte look, try Illuminare Mattifying Mineral Foundation. For more full coverage, layer it with Illuminare Concealing Mineral Foundation. For a dewy natural finish, try Illuminare Moisturizing Mineral Foundation. Tip: Illuminare makeup is very concentrated and a little goes a long way. Apply a few dots to a makeup brush or mix with your favorite acne-safe sunscreen.
Watch Celine’s Acne Chat on Acne Cosmetica for more info
Head to Lesson 7 to find out if your birth control could be causing your acne!
Have questions? Reach out to our team of seasoned estheticians via live chat or sign up for one of our Skincare Coaching Programs to discuss your specific needs. We’ll be here every step of the way!
Comments (40)
Do you know of any shampoos, conditioners, or hair care products that are free of these? I checked Monat, and unfortunately, they all have coconut oil.
We have this list. Be sure to check yourself. These companies change ingredient decks often.
Safe Hair and Body Products
**Please note that this list is given as a courtesy, and though we have thoroughly checked the ingredients in
all of these products, formulations frequently change. It is in your best interest to double-check the
ingredients of any product you are intending on using to verify that the ingredients are still currently noncomedogenic. In addition, if a product does not have any visible comedogenic ingredients, but it is evident breakouts are occurring from it, discontinue use.
Bamboo Volume Abundant Shampoo
Redken All Soft Conditioner
Kenra Platinum Hot Spray 20
Got 2b Glued Styling Spiking Glue
Giovanni Root 66 Max Volume Shampoo
Giovanni Wicked Texture Pomade
Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Treat Invigorating Conditioner
Abba Moisture Conditioner
Malibu Scalp Wellness Sulfate-Free Shampoo
FOR ALL LOREAL EVERPURE PRODUCTS- DO NOT
PURCHASE IF NOT LISTED BELOW ↓
L’oreal EverPure Sulfate-Free Volume Shampoo
L’oreal EverPure Sulfate-Free Smooth Shampoo
L’oreal EverPure Sulfate-Free Moisture Deep Restorative
Masque
L’oreal Everpure Sulfate-Free Moisture Shampoo
L’oreal Everpure Sulfate-Free Frizz Defy Shampoo
L’oreal EverCreme Cleansing Conditioner
Enjoy Volumizing Mousse
Mineral Fusion Anti-dandruff Mineral Shampoo
Herbal Essences Totally Twisted Curl Boosting
Mousse
Dermazinc Shampoo (for dandruff)
Bumble and Bumble Straight Shampoo
Kinky Curly Curling Custard Styling Gel
Ecoco Eco Styler Krystal Styling Gel
Ecoco Eco Styler Extra Firm Hold Styling Gel
Ecoco Eco Styler Firm Hold Styling Gel
L’anza Healing Nourish Stimulating Shampoo
L’anza Healing Nourish Stimulating Conditioner
Alterna Bamboo Clarifying Shampoo
Aveda Be Curly Shampoo
Aveda Be Curly Conditioner
Aveda Shampure Shampoo
Leave-In Conditioner:
Kinky Curly Knot Today Leave-In Conditioner
Aveda Be Curly Leave-In Conditioner
Quidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner
DevaCurl One Condition Original Daily Cream Conditioner
Elucence Moisture Balance Conditioner AND Leave-In
Conditioner
Just FYI, I would probably stay clear of any DevaCurl products. There are currently class action lawsuits formed against the company for adverse effects. I am trying to recover my own scalp from using their shampoo and conditioner. Just Google “DevaCurl lawsuit” and there are a plethora of articles.
Hi! Any suggestions for acne safe lip balm/chapstick ?
Hi Catherine,
We love Rhonda Allison Lip Restore Serum
I have serious acne infact cystic nodules acne when I apply makeup. Please can help me choose a makeup products
Hi Angella! We recommend the Illuminare Mineral foundations. Here is the link to the starter kit which will help you choose the perfect shade and formula: https://www.artofskincare.com/illuminare-deluxe-foundation-starter-kit/
Hi can you please recommend or have a list for a face cleanser for oily acne prone skin that doesn’t have those ingredients and actually work to prevent new acne?
Hi Yakini! Here is a list to all of the cleansers we sell. Every cleanser (and product that we sell) that is completely free of acne causing ingredients is marked with a grey “Acne Safe” badge. For oily, acne prone skin I highly recommend Face Reality Mandelic Face and Body Wash.
What are some face wash recommendations?
Hi Brice! We recommend Face Reality Ultra Gentle Cleanser for dry skin types, and Face Reality Mandelic Face & Body Wash for normal to oily. If you would like our help picking out the best one for you, feel free to email our acne experts! hello@artofskincare.com
Hi! What face wash, exfoliating scrub would you recommend to help minimize black heads without causing an acne breakout? I suffer from adult hormonal acne. TIA
Hi Jacqueline! It depends on your skin type, but the first step to take is to double cleanse. I recommend first cleansing with Michele Corley’s Pore Purifying Cleansing Oil, followed by Face Reality’s Ultra Gentle Facial Cleanser. These two together will deep cleanse the pores without over-stripping and irritating the skin.
Hi,
I think that my the lotion and face moisturizer I am using on my baby is clogging my pores and was wondering if there’s a line of acne safe baby products you recommend. Also, I’m currently breastfeeding, do you think that causes acne?
Thanks!
Hi Shari,
The best thing for you to do would be to reach out to us on Live Chat (click the question mark on the bottom left-hand side of Artofskincare.com) and let us know which products you are currently using. I can definitely help you find an acne-safe breastfeeding safe skincare routine for both yourself and baby.
I’ve been using Fenty’s foundation, which is non comedogenic, but my skin is flaring up like crazy. Have you heard the same thing about anyone else using this makeup? I check the ingredients list and it looks “clean”
Hi Miranda! We have actually been hearing that a lot about the Fenty foundations. They don’t contain any of the pore-clogging ingredients on this list, however both formulas contain high amounts of talc which can be very irritative to the skin. They also contain large amounts of fragrance which can also irritate the skin. A great acne-safe alternative to the matte formula is the CoverFX Power Play foundation!
Do you recommend a face moisturizer for acne prone skin? I am currently using live clean’s fresh face cleanser and lotions, but they have been discontinued so I’m looking for a replacement. Thank you.
Hi Mae! Our best selling acne-safe moisturizer is Face Reality Clearderma. However, if you have oily skin you may like something lighter like Hydrabalance :).
Hello. I just purchased Cera Ve hydrating facial cleanser for normal to dry skin and I have noticed breakouts on my face and was clear before I started using the product. I just looked at the list of ingredients to avoid and I am planning to return the product. Does anyone have any suggestions on what to use for acne prone skin?
Hi Tawnie! I highly recommend Face Reality’s Ultra Gentle Cleanser. It is great for all skin types that are acne prone.
Hello, I stay in Canada. I regularly get breakouts which is getting worse. Please what skincare brand do you suggest I use that is based in Canada that has a good cleanser and moisturizer for oily-combination- sensitive skin?
Hi Joyce! I recommend finding someone near you that sells Nelly De Vuyst products. She makes a great foaming acne wash as well as different moisturizers to choose from.
Hi, do you know if ACM labratoire depiwhite whitening body milk is safe for acne prone skin? I have discoloration around my chest and back from using retinol + aha, so I want something that whitens or brightens skin (should work on the body) without getting acne along the way
Hi Andrea. It looks like that product contains shea butter so it is not acne safe. I would recommend PurErb Brightening Bar instead as an acne-safe option for brightening dark spots on the body. Also make sure you are applying sunscreen to that area every day. https://www.artofskincare.com/purerb-brightening-bar-for-face-body/
Would argon oil be ok if it’s in conditioner and not shampoo? I only apply conditioner to the ends of my hair so the oil would not inflame the hair follicle if I’m not using it on my scalp?
Hi Angela. Conditioners are often the worst offender. Even though you are only applying conditioner to your ends, it often still travels onto the skin getting on your neck and shoulders, and onto your pillowcase and face while you sleep. If you are having active acne breakouts I would recommend switching to an acne-safe conditioner until you are clear. Once you are clear, you could try re-introducing your old conditioner if you are strict on changing your pillowcase daily and keeping your hair up while you sleep.
Hi, thanks for this article. I’m struggling with breakouts and I think it’s time to change my skincare products…
What brand of moisturiser and facial scrub would you recommend for dry, acne prone skin? I was interested in Face Reality’s products, yet they don’t ship to my location, which is the UK.
The brand would also need to be vegan/cruelty free.
Hope you can help me!
I’m sorry Ashlyn. I am unfamiliar with skincare lines in the UK. I would recommend going to see an esthetician in your area for recommendations. Some of our international clients have also used the following third-party shippers, but please keep in mind that we do not guarantee delivery through these methods. We also don’t recommend ordering liquid products through third-party shippers (like toners) because we have had clients experience difficulty getting them delivered.
https://www.myus.com/
https://www.reship.com/
Hello, I’ve been using the Face Reality Acne Safe Bundle for a while now, and my skin has never looked better. But I was wondering if you guys are familiar with the Beauty Of Joseon Sunscreen and if it is suitable for acne-prone skin. I hope you guys can help me. 🙂
I am not familiar with that sunscreen. You would just need to compare the full ingredient deck on the bottle with the list of ingredients in this article to ensure there aren’t any acne-causing ingredients.
I am not familiar with that sunscreen. However, you can check it using the list on this page: https://learn.artofskincare.com/acne-lesson-6-acne-causing-ingredients-you-need-to-know-for-clear-skin/
The combination of Face Reality and Rhonda Allison products have completely cleared my skin, for years now. I’m a loyal customer and will always keep returning. Do you know if the Oxygenetix foundation is safe? I looked up the ingredients and it appears so but I’m worried about trying it.
Hi Melanie,
Thank you for sharing! I tested Oxygenetix and did not like the consistency but it is acne safe.
Hi!
So I’ve really been struggling with my skin and I’ve tried literally every face wash available in the stores. I recently switched my routine and it’s cleared up but now it flared up again ?
Right now I’m using Vanicream face wash (hope that’s okay!) and the ordinary moisturizer (hope that’s ok too!) I’ve also been using Lancôme foundation and concealer and as a base I’m trying out Youthforia pre game primer and Urban Decay all nighter
What do you think about these products?
Urban Decay All Nighter Face Makeup Primer is not acne safe. It contains Ethylhexyl Palmitate, which is known to clog pores, so that might be what is causing your acne to return. The rest of the products appear acne-safe from a quick glance at the ingredients but I am not sure the exact one from each brand you are using. You will want to double-check the ingredients yourself. There are some online tools that can help you if you search “pore clogging ingredients checker” they aren’t always perfect but they are a good place to start. If shopping on our website, we check the ingredients for you and put an Acne-Safe Badge on products that won’t cause breakouts. You will also want to check your hair care products and fabric softeners/dryer sheets as they are often also culprits. This may be all you need to stay clear. If you remove all pore cloggers from your routine and are still breaking out, I recommend doing a consultation with us so we can help you look at other factors such as diet and get you started on some correctives to get you clear. You can learn more here.
Hello. Estée Lauder Double wear packaging says “non acnegenic” but it has ingredients that are on the list. Is this advertisement allowed because there is no regulation?
Hi Leticia! Yes, their is no regulation around the word non-acnegenic, unfortunately.
Hi! I’m using Pantene’s MIRACLE MOISTURE BOOST CONDITIONER WITH ROSE WATER. It has both Stearyl Alcohol and Cetyl Alcohol. Does this count as Cetyl Acetate and/or Cetearyl Alcohol + Ceteareth 20?
Nope! Only the exact named ingredients are an issue.