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Skincare With Non-Comedogenic Cosmetics

Non-comedogenic is likely a term that you will come across when you walk down the skincare aisle. Non-comedogenic products have been tested to be less likely (but not guaranteed) to cause blackheads or whiteheads. These products are helpful for those with oily skin, or those who have trouble with acne. Although less commonly seen, non-acnegenic, or non-oily cosmetics are terms that you may come across, and they roughly mean the same thing.

Moisturizers

Moisturizers are an important part of daily skincare, and a necessity for those with dry skin. For those with oily skin or those who have problems with acne, however, the thicker moisturizers can induce acne flares. Although there is no way to completely eliminate the risk of adverse reactions to any cosmetics, following these guidelines can help minimize the risk:

Choose moisturizers that are labelled non-comedogenic. They are less likely to cause blackheads and whiteheads, as they are designed for those with oily or acnegenic skin. A moisturizer with a lighter consistency is less likely to induce acne if there are no products that are labelled non-comedogenic.

If you have very oily skin, especially around the T-zone (the central face area from the forehead to the area around the nose), these areas do not need to be moisturized. Focus on the drier areas. Non-oily, non-acnegenic are often used in labels instead of non-comedogenic, and roughly mean the same thing.

Cleansers

Cleansers are another essential part of daily skincare as well as hygiene. Having an effective cleansing routine is essential for those with oily skin. Lighter liquid cleansers are good for those with dry or sensitive skin, but for those with oily skin, the traditional bar soap or synthetic detergents are recommended as they can wash off the extra oil. If you have oily skin, follow these guidelines for cleansers:

Choose stronger cleansers if you have an oilier skin type. Traditional bar soaps and synthetic detergents are helpful for cleansing oily skin. Non-comedogenic cleansers are designed for those with oily, or acne-prone skin, and are good things to look for in a label. Acne cleansers are useful if acne is already present. They take some patience, but are a convenient and effective treatment for mild acne.

Sunscreens

Sunscreens generally don't cause too much difficulty with acne. Most active ingredients in sunscreens aren't known for causing acne. Some thick formulations can clog the pores in those with oily skin however. Gel formulations are the least likely to cause clogs.

  • Sunscreens are an important part of skincare. As UV damage is the most significant environmental factor which causes premature aging, sunscreens are considered by most dermatologists to be the most effective anti-aging cosmetic.
  • Sunscreen actives are rarely acne-causing. Cream formulations may irritate the skin or clog the pores in some cases however.
  • Gel formulations are the least likely to cause acne problems.

Foundations

Foundations can sometimes be problematic for those with oily skin. There are many formulations that are designed for those with oily or acne probe skin. Choosing the proper foundation product can ensure that you get adequate coverage while minimizing the risks of worsening acne.

Foundations can sometimes cause the pores to clog, which can be a problem for those with oily or acne prone skin. Titanium dioxide allows for full coverage without increasing the risk of worsening acne. Salicylic acid, an ingredient that is often used in acne cleansers are added in some formulations, which can help those with existing acne.