Comedogenicity

What It Is

The tendency of a topical ingredient or product to cause or worsen comedones (clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads). Comedogenicity ratings run from 0 (non-comedogenic) to 5 (highly comedogenic), based on in-vitro and animal testing. While useful as a guide, comedogenicity ratings have significant limitations: they were established from rabbit ear studies that do not perfectly predict human facial response, and individual skin biology varies enormously. An ingredient rated 3 may not cause breakouts in most users.

Key Context

Low comedogenicity (0–1): squalane, shea butter, jojoba. Moderate (2–3): sesame oil, most silicones. Higher (4–5): wheat germ oil, coconut oil. Context matters: a product with a comedogenic ingredient low on the ingredient list may be fine in practice.

Learn More

• Acne-Prone Skin Routine
• Ingredient Education