Eagle
13 Tháng 3, 2024
As a general rule of thumb, ingredients with high concentrations of oleic acid, a fatty acid, tend to be more comedogenic, Yadav tells us. This is why cocoa butter can cause issues, as it’s very high in oleic acid, she explains. Top tip: If you’re looking for an alternative that’s just as moisturizing but won’t clog pores, Palm recommends shea butter, which is non-comedogenic.
More often found in makeup than skincare—specifically in primers—as well as haircare like conditioners and masks, silicone is highly comedogenic, according to Palm. In checking for it on the ingredient label, make sure you’re also looking for and steering clear of its derivatives, including cyclomethicone and dimethicone.
“This is yet another occlusive ingredient that creates a film over the dermal layer, trapping dead skin cells, bacteria, and oil within the pores, which can worsen acne and breakouts,” Palm explains. Nazarian also cites it as one of the more common pore-clogging ingredients out there.
A high concentration of oleic acid is also to blame for this oil’s comedogenicity. Yadav says grapeseed oil is a good alternative, equally nourishing for the skin but without the potential pore-clogging pitfall.
“This ranks about a three or four on the comedogenicity scale, meaning it’s not suitable for those with acne-prone skin,” Palm explains. Swap it for squalane instead. “Typically derived from olives, it’s intensely nourishing to the skin and is biomimetic, meaning it behaves similarly to your skin’s natural oils and won’t congest the pore,” Yadav says, adding that it’s also a good substitute for coconut oil.
