In the beauty world, the term "comedogenic" is mentioned time and again. Beauty gurus in particular often use this term in their recommendations. But what do the terms "comedogenic" and "non-comedogenic" actually mean? If you are dealing with skincare, you should definitely familiarize yourself with these terms. We have summarized the most important information on this topic for you and show you how to find the right skincare products.
Table of contents
1. what does "comedogenic" mean?
You may have already noticed that the term "comedogenic" has something to do with acne and generally blemished skin. Many manufacturers therefore advertise their skin care products with the words "non-comedogenic". What they are trying to say is that their products do not clog pores and therefore do not cause blackheads or pimples. The term "comedogenic" is derived from the technical term for blackheads "comedo". These are caused by blocked sebaceous glands and the sebum that accumulates in them. If the blackheads become inflamed, pimples develop.
2. comedogenic or non-comedogenic?
Comedogenic products are so rich that they leave a film on the skin and can block the glands. A greasy cream and oils with a high degree of comedogenicity, such as Casida's wheat germ oil, are comedogenic but not necessarily bad for the skin. Quite the opposite - they retain moisture in the skin and are therefore ideal for the care of dry and mature skin. People with oily skin and those whose skin is sensitive to irritation should avoid using comedogenic products. Otherwise blackheads or pimples could develop.
To clear up any misunderstandings: non-comedogenic products are no help in treating inflamed pimples. They usually do not contain any antibacterial active ingredients, which are necessary for the treatment of blemishes.
3. which substances are comedogenic?
If you suffer from oily skin and blemishes, you should avoid using too many fats or oils in your skincare, as these are usually comedogenic. However, you should not believe everything that is written on the product packaging. The term "comedogenic" is not protected. As manufacturers are often careless with such designations, you must always pay close attention to the ingredients. Comedogenic substances include, for example, mineral oils such as silicones, vaseline or kerosene, which can cause blackheads even in people with normally clear skin. Caution should also be exercised with mineral oil residues such as aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH).
But not only industrially produced substances are comedogenic. Natural ingredients such as animal fats, but also vegetable fats and oils can also clog pores. These include lanolin, palm oil, coconut oil, corn oil, cocoa butter, peanut oil and olive oil.
4 How do I find non-comedogenic products?
Oily and acne-prone skin should be cared for with non-comedogenic products. Nevertheless, you don't have to do without oils in your skincare routine. Some oils are non-comedogenic, i.e. they do not clog the pores. These oils include almond oil, wild rose oil, argan oil and jojoba oil. We particularly recommend Casida almond oil and wild rose oil, which have proven to be excellent skincare oils for very sensitive skin. Casida products do not contain any harmful additives and can still penetrate deeper into the skin layers without clogging the pores and causing skin impurities.
Click here for our beauty guide to find out which beauty routine suits your skin type.
Important note / disclaimer: As pharmacists, we share our pharmaceutical expertise and wealth of naturopathic experience in the Casida guide. An individual diagnosis and consultation is necessary in every case. Therefore, this offer cannot replace medical advice. It is not intended to treat, cure or prevent any disease. It is not a substitute for medication or other treatments prescribed by a doctor.
