Understanding Pore-Clogging Ingredients

Pore-clogging ingredients, also known as comedogenic substances, are those that can block hair follicles and trap oil and bacteria, leading to breakouts and worsening acne-prone skin. It’s crucial to check your skincare, haircare, and makeup products for these ingredients—even if they are labeled as “clean,” “organic,” or “non-comedogenic.”

Many people assume that “clean” products are inherently good for their skin, but this isn’t always the case. For example, coconut oil is often praised for its moisturizing properties, yet it can be too heavy for acne-prone skin and potentially trigger breakouts. Other natural ingredients can have similar effects, proving that not all organic substances are automatically non-comedogenic.

It’s also important to remember that everyone’s skin is different. What clogs one person’s pores might not affect another’s. Pore-clogging ingredients are typically rated on a scale from 1–5, with 1 being least likely to clog pores and 5 being highly comedogenic. However, whether or not an ingredient will actually cause breakouts depends on many factors: how acne-prone your skin is, the overall product formulation, and the concentration of that ingredient.

Just because an ingredient has been deemed pore-clogging doesn’t guarantee it will break you out. Still, if you struggle with acne, it’s often best to play it safe and avoid ingredients that could be contributing to breakouts. Eliminating potential triggers can help you more confidently identify what’s really working for your skin.