The 15 Best Noncomedogenic Moisturizers to Avoid Breakouts

You’ve probably heard the term before and thought it sounded good for the most part, but didn’t really know much about it. “Put simply, a non-comedogenic product was tested to avoid clogging pores,” explains the board-certified dermatologist Ife Rodney, MD, FAAD, of Eternal dermatology and aesthetics. “This means it is less likely to cause acne. However, this is not guaranteed. Dirt, dead skin cells, or sebum can clog pores and cause acne. Comedogenic products – usually heavy or greasy – can also clog your pores. that non-comedogenic products don’t necessarily treat your breakouts. They just don’t add to the problem. “

While non-comedogenic products are helpful for just about everyone, those with oily, sensitive, or acne-prone skin will benefit most from them as these skin types can easily become clogged, which can lead to breakouts.

What makes a product comedogenic? “Ingredients that clog pores or are comedogenic are found in many skin care products and make-up,” says the specialist dermatologist Jeremy Brewer. “The list of pore-blocking ingredients is long and includes various oils, alcohols, acids, butter, propylene glycol and lanolins. Non-comedogenic products often contain salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or sulfur, but can also contain other oils such as grape seed.”

Other non-comedogenic ingredients include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, mineral oil, and ceramides.