If you have acne-prone skin, I'm sure you're way too familiar with the term "noncomedogenic" at this point. By the off chance that you're not, a product can be considered noncomedogenic when it's specifically formulated with ingredients that won't clog your pores. Seems easy enough to understand, research, and identify, right? Wrong.
Finding products that are truly noncomedogenic can be a bit tricky sometimes. There are so many commonly used ingredients out there that are actually considered highly pore-clogging (hi, coconut oil). It can be overwhelming trying to find both skincare and makeup that actually fits the noncomedogenic bill. This realization led me to dig a little bit deeper—especially when it comes to makeup products like foundation that literally sit on your skin all day.
With a little help from our senior beauty editor Erin Jahns, I happened to discover a handy tool from Acne Clinic NYC that allows you to pop in the ingredient list in a product and it will tell you if it has any pore-clogging agents within the formula. It's been both a blessing and a curse, as it has led to the unfortunate discovery of how many of my makeup and skincare products I should probably stop using.
On the bright side, it did make it easier for me to do some research on an array of noncomedogenic makeup I can now potentially use instead. It should also be noted that although some brands do exclusively carry noncomedogenic products, it's still not always a guarantee. It's a good idea to do a quick check on the ingredients list anyway before purchasing anything new. But for now, I've got you covered with the below finds. Keep reading for the best noncomedogenic makeup brands and products to add to your routine.
Merit Beauty
This complexion stick is truly for the makeup minimalist. On days you're going for a no-makeup makeup look, dot it where you think you could use a bit of extra coverage. Bonus: All Merit products are formulated without 72 potential acne-triggering ingredients, so you can rest easy knowing they most likely won't cause breakouts.
This creamy cheek tint glides on with ease but won't clog your pores. It delivers the perfect touch of color for a sun-kissed glow.
The name says it all. This highlighting balm delivers megawatt sheen and light hydration without heavy ingredients.
Thrive Causemetics
Finally, a CC cream with broad-spectrum SPF that won't clog your pores. It's a skin-perfecting foundation, moisturizer, and color-correcting cream all in one.
This multipurpose stick delivers waterproof color for the face, lips, and body.
This highlighter is infused with vitamin E which works to block free radicals and hydrate the skin. All without blocking your pores, of course.
Pat McGrath Labs
This luxe foundation is the ultimate key to smooth-looking skin. It's customizable with sheer to medium coverage and doesn't feature pore-blocking ingredients like shea butter (common in other foundations).
Yep, your under-eye area needs noncomedogenic products, too. To keep breakouts at bay there, opt for this brightening setting powder.
Concealer can be extremely heavy and loaded with pore-clogging ingredients. This one from Pat McGrath Labs, however, is free of those potential triggers.
It Cosmetics
Combination makeup and skincare products are having a moment right now. This foundation features hepes acid to gently exfoliate for a brighter-looking complexion. A huge win if your pores tend to clog easily.
I know not everyone is a fan of waterproof concealer, but if it is your jam, try this heavy-duty option that's safe for acne-prone skin.
While this CC cream does display one potentially pore-clogging ingredient (soy bean extract), it may not be an issue for everyone. It's still a fabulous foundation with a mineral sunscreen that provides great coverage.
Tower 28
This new offering from Tower 28 is a foundation with SPF that's safe for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
Pro tip: You can use this anti-inflammatory facial spray as a noncomedogenic setting spray.
If you're concerned about your mouth area, try a noncomedogenic lip gloss like this one.
Physicians Formula
Physicians Formula offers one of the all-time best noncomedogenic makeup products at a drugstore price.
These magical shade adjusting drops transform your foundation into the perfect hue to match your skin tone. It's definitely handy and is completely noncomedogenic.
This beauty balm has all the hydrating and perfecting benefits of a primer and tinted moisturizer but also features a color correcting formula. It's a true makeup powerhouse and won't cause any acne flare-ups.
Laura Mercier
Create a smooth, perfect (and protected) canvas for your makeup with this non pore-clogging primer.
If you're in the market for a long wear foundation but need one that's noncomedogenic, this is absolutely the one for you.
For a more luminous option, try the Flawless Lumière Radiance-Perfecting Foundation.
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