If you are looking for a cosmetic ingredient that will not cause you to break out, then you should be looking for a product that is non-comedogenic. These ingredients are known to cause acne, so it is best to avoid them if you can.
Here, we will give an example and explain why it is important to look for this designation when choosing cosmetics.
What is it?
Comedones are tiny blackheads that can form on your skin. They're caused by a build-up of oil, sebum, and dead skin cells in the pores. They can enlarge the pores and cause a blemish when they become blocked.
Ingredients that are ‘non-comedogenic’ or ‘oil-free’ are less likely to clog pores and cause blemishes. Look for these terms on cosmetics, moisturizers, and sunscreens products.
Why Should You Use Them?
These products are important to use because they can help prevent your skin from developing blackheads, pimples, and other blemishes, so, if you're struggling with breakouts, it's worth changing your skincare routine.
There are a few different reasons why these ingredients can cause problems with your skin, for example:
- They have a high comedogenicity rating
- They are notorious for clogging
- They can irritate the skin
- They can trigger an immune response
Why Should You Choose Non-Comedogenic?
Comedogenic ingredients carry a high probability of clogging your skin. These ingredients can be found in various skincare, makeup and beauty products, including foundations, sunscreens, moisturizers, and concealers.
Some common comedogenic ingredients include:
- coconut oil
- cocoa butter
- isopropyl alcohol
- beeswax
- shea butter
- mineral oil
On the other hand, products that don’t contain ingredients such as these have a low probability of clogging your skin. These are often found in skincare and cosmetic products that are marketed as being ‘oil-free’ or ‘non-acnegenic.’
Some common ingredients include silicone, dimethicone, and cyclomethicone.
Examples
Some common ingredients include:-
- Silicone-based: These are often used in foundations and other makeup products to help create a smooth, silky texture. Dimethicone is a type of silicone that is commonly used.
- Cyclomethicone: This ingredient is also a type of silicone that is often used in products, particularly those that are designed for oily skin.
- Nylon-based: These are often used in foundations and other makeup to help create a smooth texture. Nylon-12 is a type of nylon commonly used.
- PTFE-based: This is a type of synthetic polymer typically used in foundations to create a smooth texture.
Benefits
- Reduced skin breakouts - since excess oil and dirt can't build up, you're less likely to experience breakouts
- Improved complexion - your skin will have a more even texture and appearance
- Reduced irritation - if you have sensitive skin, these products will be less likely to irritate
- Longer lasting makeup -it will have a better chance of staying put
- Faster absorption - since they don't sit on top of the skin, they're more easily absorbed.
So, if you're looking for hypoallergenic cosmetics that won't cause breakouts, be sure to check the label ingredients.
Which Ingredients Should You Avoid?
There are a few ingredients to avoid when choosing cosmetics, for example:
- Isopropyl Myristate: This is used as a solvent and is known to be comedogenic (pore-clogging)
- Propylene Glycol: This is a humectant and can cause skin irritation
- Phenoxyethanol: This preservative can be toxic to the kidneys and central nervous system
- Parabens: These preservatives mimic estrogen and have been linked to breast cancer
- Fragrances: Fragrances are composed of many different chemicals, and some are known as allergens.
You should also avoid anything that you're allergic to. If you're unsure what ingredients are found in a particular product, check the label or product flashcards.
Conclusion:
If you're looking for cosmetics that won't clog your skin or cause breakouts, look for non-comedogenic ingredients to help keep your skin clear and healthy.
