Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. One significant factor contributing to acne’s development and worsening is comedogenicity.

Comedogenicity is the ability of a substance or product to block pores and cause the formation of comedones, which are acne’s hallmark. For individuals dealing with acne, it is essential to be aware of comedogenicity and how it affects their skin. Using comedogenic products can exacerbate acne and lead to further breakouts.

This blog post aims to define comedogenicity and discuss its significance for individuals with acne. We will also explore how comedogenicity is tested, the common ingredients that are comedogenic, and provide tips on selecting non-comedogenic products.

By the end of this post, you will better understand how comedogenicity impacts your skin and how you can make informed decisions regarding your skincare routine.

What is Comedogenicity?

Comedogenicity is the ability of a substance or product to clog pores and cause the formation of comedones. Comedones are non-inflammatory lesions that are characteristic of acne and include blackheads and whiteheads. When a substance is comedogenic, it can trap oil and bacteria in the pores, leading to inflammation and the formation of acne.

The comedogenicity of a substance is measured on a scale from 0 to 5, with 0 being non-comedogenic and 5 being highly comedogenic. However, be aware that this scale does not guarantee that a product won’t cause acne. Different individuals may have different sensitivities to comedogenic substances, and the severity of comedogenicity can vary depending on the concentration of the substance in a product.

Understanding comedogenicity is critical for acne patients because it can help them choose the right skincare products and avoid ingredients that could worsen their acne. By choosing products that are labeled as non-comedogenic or contain ingredients that are less likely to cause acne, acne patients can reduce their risk of clogged pores and further breakouts.

How is comedogenicity tested?

Comedogenicity testing is a valuable tool used by the cosmetic and skincare industry to determine the likelihood of a substance or product causing comedones. There are a few different methods used to test comedogenicity, including:

1. Human patch testing – This method involves applying the test substance to a small area of skin on the back of a human volunteer and monitoring for the formation of comedones for weeks.
2. Rabbit ear assay – In this test, the test substance is applied to the inside of a rabbit’s ear, and the formation of comedones is monitored over weeks.
3. Mouse ear assay – This method is similar to the rabbit ear assay but applies the test substance to a mouse’s ear.

In vitro testing – In this method, the test substance is applied to a culture of skin cells and monitored for cell changes that could indicate the formation of comedones.

Take note that each method has limitations, and no single “gold standard” exists for comedogenicity testing. Results can vary depending on the animal species used, the concentration of the test substance, and other factors. 

Additionally, comedogenicity testing does not consider individual differences in skin sensitivity, so even non-comedogenic products may cause acne in some individuals. 

As such, comedogenicity testing should be used as a guide, and individuals should always patch-test new products on a small area of skin before applying them more widely.

Common ingredients that are comedogenic

There are several ingredients commonly found in skincare, makeup, and hair care products that have been identified as comedogenic. 

Here are some of the most commonly cited culprits:

• Coconut oil – While it has many benefits for the skin, it is also highly comedogenic, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
• Isopropyl myristate – This ingredient is often used in cosmetics as a texture enhancer, but it’s also highly comedogenic and can cause acne.
• Sodium lauryl sulfate – A foaming agent commonly used in cleansers and shampoos, sodium lauryl sulfate can be comedogenic and irritating to the skin.
• Lanolin – A moisturizing ingredient derived from sheep’s wool, lanolin is highly comedogenic and can cause acne breakouts.
• Mineral oil – This ingredient is commonly used as a moisturizer and skin protectant, but it’s also highly comedogenic and can clog pores.
• Shea butter – While it’s a popular natural moisturizer, shea butter can also be comedogenic and cause acne in some individuals.
• Algae extract – A common ingredient in skincare products, algae extract can be highly comedogenic and contribute to clogged pores.

Please note that the comedogenicity of an ingredient can vary depending on the concentration in a product and an individual’s skin type and sensitivity. 

As such, it’s important for individuals to be aware of their own skin’s response to specific ingredients and to patch test new products before applying them more widely. 

Also, choosing products labeled as non-comedogenic can help reduce the risk of clogged pores and acne breakouts.

Why is avoiding comedogenic products important for acne patients?

Avoiding comedogenic products is critical for acne patients because the blockage of hair follicles by oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria causes acne. When products that contain comedogenic ingredients are applied to the skin, they can increase the likelihood of pore blockage and lead to new or worsening acne breakouts.

By using non-comedogenic products, acne patients can reduce the risk of clogged pores and the formation of new acne lesions. Non-comedogenic products are specifically formulated not to clog pores, which can help reduce the frequency and severity of acne breakouts.

Additionally, some individuals with acne may also have sensitive skin, which the use of comedogenic products can exacerbate. These products can lead to skin irritation and inflammation, further aggravating acne breakouts and making them more difficult to treat.

Overall, choosing non-comedogenic products is an essential step in managing acne and can help reduce the frequency and severity of breakouts while minimizing the risk of skin irritation and inflammation.

How to avoid comedogenic products

Avoiding comedogenic products can be challenging, as many skincare and makeup products contain ingredients that can potentially clog pores and cause acne. 

However, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of using comedogenic products:

• Look for products labeled as non-comedogenic – Many skincare and makeup products are labeled as non-comedogenic, making them less likely to clog pores and cause acne.
• Read ingredient labels carefully – Take the time to read ingredient labels on products before you buy them. Look for ingredients known to be comedogenic and avoid products containing them.
• Patch test new products – Before applying a new product to your face, patch test it on a small area of skin, such as behind your ear or on the inside of your wrist. This will help you determine if the product is likely to cause a reaction on your skin.
• Avoid heavy, oil-based products – Heavy, oil-based products are more likely to clog pores and cause acne. Look for lightweight, oil-free products instead.
• Choose products designed for your skin type – If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for products specifically designed for your skin type. These products are often formulated to be non-comedogenic and can help reduce your risk of breakouts.
• Be mindful of hair care products – Hair care products, such as shampoos and conditioners, can also contribute to acne breakouts along the hairline and on the forehead. Look for hair care products that are labeled as non-comedogenic or avoid using them on your skin altogether.

By taking these steps, you can reduce your risk of using comedogenic products and help keep your skin clear and healthy.

Choosing non-comedogenic products

Choosing non-comedogenic products is an essential step in preventing acne breakouts and maintaining clear, healthy skin. Here are some tips for choosing non-comedogenic products:

Look for products labeled as non-comedogenic – Many skincare and makeup products are labeled as non-comedogenic, which means they have been specifically formulated not to clog pores.

1. Check for comedogenic ingredients – When shopping for skincare and makeup products, look for ingredients known to be comedogenic and avoid products containing them. Some common comedogenic ingredients include coconut oil, isopropyl myristate, lanolin, and mineral oil.
2. Consider your skin type – Different skin types have different needs regarding skincare and makeup products. For example, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for lightweight, oil-free products that won’t contribute to breakouts.
3. Read reviews – Before buying any product, read reviews from other people with similar skin types to see if they have successfully used it. This can help you avoid products that may be too heavy or irritating for your skin.
4. Patch test new products – Patch testing new products is always a smart idea, even if they are labeled as non-comedogenic. Apply a small amount of the product to a small area of skin, such as behind your ear or on the inside of your wrist. Monitor for any signs of irritation or breakouts.

By choosing non-comedogenic products, you can help reduce your risk of acne breakouts and keep your skin looking and feeling its best.

Conclusion

In conclusion, comedogenicity is a critical concept to understand for anyone looking to manage acne breakouts. Comedogenic products can contribute to clogged pores, developing inflammatory acne lesions, and exacerbating existing breakouts. By choosing non-comedogenic products and avoiding ingredients known to be comedogenic, individuals with acne can help reduce their risk of breakouts and promote clearer, healthier skin.

Remember always to read ingredient labels carefully, patch test new products, and choose products that are specifically formulated for your skin type. By taking these steps, you can help reduce your risk of using comedogenic products and maintain clear, healthy skin. If you are struggling with acne breakouts, it is also important to consult a dermatologist. This is because dermatologists can provide personalized recommendations and treatment options to help you achieve your skin health goals.

---

References:

1. Mills, O. H., & Kligman, A. M. (1982). A human model for assessing comedogenic substances. Archives of Dermatology, 118(11), 903-905.
2. Welch S. Understanding Comedogenicity & Acne Cosmetica. Healthybeautiful.com [Internet]. Healthy Beautiful; [cited 2023 Mar 5]; Available from: https://healthybeautiful.com/comedogenic-acne-understanding-comedogenicity-acne-cosmetica/
3. Fulton Jr, J. E., Bradley, S., Aqundez, A., & Black, T. (1976). Non-comedogenic cosmetics. Cutis, 17(2), 344-5.
4. Kligman, A. M., & KWONG, T. (1979). An improved rabbit ear model for assessing comedogenic substances. British Journal of Dermatology, 100(6), 699-702.
5. Welch S. The Best Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin. healthybeautiful.com [Internet]. Healthy Beautiful; [cited 2023 Mar 5]; Available from: https://healthybeautiful.com/review/best-non-comedogenic-moisturizers-for-acne-prone-skin/
6. Draelos, Z. D., & DiNardo, J. C. (2006). A re-evaluation of the comedogenicity concept. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 54(3), 507-512.
7. Nguyen, S. H., Dang, T. P., & Maibach, H. I. (2007). Comedogenicity in rabbit: some cosmetic ingredients/vehicles. Cutaneous and ocular toxicology, 26(4), 287-292.
8. 1. Evans M. The Best Non-Comedogenic Primers for Acne-Prone Skin. healthybeautiful.com [Internet]. Healthy Beautiful; [cited 2023 Mar 5]; Available from: https://healthybeautiful.com/review/best-non-comedogenic-primers-for-acne-prone-skin/