10 Non-Comedogenic Products for Oily Skin

You may have come across the word “non-comedogenic” as you scan your supply of beauty buys and wonder “what does non-comedogenic mean?” Chances are some of your favorite skincare and makeup products are categorized as “non-comedogenic,” especially if you use products designed for acne-prone skin. While it is a buzzword in the beauty industry, the benefits of products like non-comedogenic moisturizer and sunscreen aren’t widely known. That’s where we can help. Below, we’re giving you all you need to know about non-comedogenic cosmetics and sharing our picks for our favorite non-comedogenic makeup and skincare products (including non-comedogenic foundation) to add to your arsenal.

What Is a Comedo?

You can’t understand the origin of the word “non-comedogenic” if you’re not aware of what a comedo is first. A comedo, simply put, is a clogged pore. A comedo can be closed (also known as a blackhead) or open (also known as a whitehead). The larger a comedo is, the more noticeable it will be. The clog is typically a combination of excess sebum—the waxy substance that lubricates the skin’s surface—dirt, impurities, and dead skin cells. To help reduce the risk of a comedo forming on your skin, experts recommend cleansing twice per day and using non-comedogenic beauty products.

What Does Non-Comedogenic Mean?

Non-comedogenic means that the product (including skincare and makeup) has been specially formulated not to clog the pores. Many people wrongly assume that all non-comedogenic products can help address the look of pre-existing acne, but this is not necessarily the case. Non-comedogenic products can reduce the risk of future blemishes forming due to blocked pores, which is why they are often recommended for acne-prone skin types.

What Are the Benefits of Using Non-Comedogenic Products?

Non-comedogenic products can be a great addition to anyone’s beauty routine, and knowing all that they can offer will help you address your specific skin concerns. To start, non-comedogenic skincare and non-comedogenic cosmetics can prevent pimples and sidestep skin blockages since their purpose is to rid your skin of excess oil and impurities. Keeping your pores clean and clear can bring with it a whole host of improvements including the appearance of a smoother, more even skin tone. You could even argue that reducing dead skin and sebum can result in brighter, more youthful-looking skin. So, if you have particularly sensitive skin that’s vulnerable to clogging ingredients, have acne-prone skin, or identify as an oily skin type, then non-comedogenic skincare and makeup products are the ones you’ll want to reach for time and time again.

Our Best Non-Comedogenic Makeup Products

Ready to give non-comedogenic makeup products a try? We’ve rounded up a handful of our favorite non-comedogenic makeup formulas, below.

1. L’Oréal True Match Radiant Serum Concealer

This concealer-eye cream hybrid is really all we could ask for when it comes to a non-comedogenic concealer. The formula, made with pure hyaluronic acid, offers instant dark circle coverage while also providing your eye area with long-lasting hydration.

How to use it: Dab the formula around the eye area and gently smooth it with your fingers, a brush, or a sponge to blend onto your skin and cover dark circles.

2. L’Oréal Paris Prime Lab Up to 24 HR Pore Minimizer

If you aren’t currently using a primer before your makeup application, allow this non-comedogenic, skin-perfecting face primer to change your mind. As one of Prime Lab’s four different formulas to choose from, it’s a pore minimizer that’s suitable for all skin types. This lightweight formula can smooth lines and minimize the look of pores and imperfections. The result is skin that’s velvety smooth and prepped for makeup.

How to use it: After moisturizing, apply the primer on bare skin. Blend using gentle, circular motions over the entire face. Follow with your foundation of choice. If you’re not wearing makeup, no problem—this primer can also be worn on its own for a flawless matte finish.

3. L’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Foundation

The main purpose of foundation is to even the skin’s tone and mask the look of imperfections. The best formulas are those that blend out seamlessly and don’t look cakey. For an easily blendable formula that can match both your skin tone and undertone, reach for any of True Match Super-Blendable Makeup’s 47 true-to-skin shades that won’t clog your pores.

How to use it: Dot the foundation onto your cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. Blend the foundation out toward your hairline using your fingers, a makeup sponge, or a foundation brush. For longer-lasting wear, sweep your favorite translucent setting powder over the top.

4. L’Oréal Paris Infallible 32 HR Fresh Wear Foundation, Lightweight

If you’re looking for a non-comedogenic foundation formula that can stand up to just about anything, this lightweight foundation is for you. It is sweat- and transfer-resistant—which is exactly what you need. Bonus: If you’re trying to find a non-comedogenic sunscreen, this foundation is formulated with broad-spectrum SPF 25.

How to use it: Apply all over the face with your fingers or a brush, or use a beauty sponge.

5. L’Oréal Paris True Match Blush

Add a subtle wash of color to your cheeks with a blendable powder blush that goes on smooth. The soft powder texture gives you a natural flush in warm, neutral, or cool undertones. With an oil-free and non-comedogenic formula, this blush can work for any skin type.

How to use it: Using a dedicated blush brush or your fingertips, swipe the powder on the apples of your cheeks or anywhere you want to add a little natural color.

6. L’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Powder

A non-comedogenic powder foundation with buildable coverage in a slew of lightweight shades? Yes, please. Minimize fine lines and the appearance of pores with every swipe of this oil-free formula for long-lasting results. Because this powder doesn’t settle into lines or clog pores, it can be worn for hours without looking cakey.

How to use it: Grab a fluffy stripping brush or makeup sponge to gently apply powder. Put a light layer on your skin and then reinforce as needed on different areas of your face, like your T-zone or under your eyes.

7. L’Oréal Paris Infallible Up to 24 HR Fresh Wear Soft Matte Bronzer

Get a sun-kissed glow without the risk of the sun’s harmful UV rays, all while keeping your pores clear. With a waterproof, sweat-proof, and transfer-proof formula, this non-comedogenic bronzer can add a bit of warmth to your skin for up to 24 hours. Did we mention that this viral bronzer available in eight shades is humidity-proof as well?

How to use it: Apply a gentle swipe of bonzer on your cheekbones, forehead, and chin, or all over your face, for a warm glow.

Our Best Non-Comedogenic Skincare Products

If you’re searching for some non-comedogenic skincare products, consider one (or more) of the below!

1. L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Derm Intensives Night Serum, 0.3% Pure Retinol

Interested in trying a retinol? This non-comedogenic serum fits the bill. The formula works to smooth skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and leave you with a brighter-looking complexion—all without clogging your pores.

How to use it: Since this serum contains a high potency of retinol, you’ll want to give your skin time to adjust. Start by using two to three drops a few times a week on cleansed skin before moisturizing, gradually increasing your usage each week until you slowly move to nightly use.

2. L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Derm Intensives 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Giving your skin some much-needed hydration doesn’t have to come at the expense of your complexion. This lightweight hyaluronic acid serum delivers intense moisture in a quick-absorbing formula that never feels sticky on your skin. Skin will appear visibly plumper and feel firmer and smoother when you use this solution, which contains a high concentration of hyaluronic acid. The solution sits on top of your skin to lock in moisture..

How to use it: Apply this serum, made for all skin types, after your cleanser but before a heavier moisturizer. If more than one serum is in your routine, prioritize the lightest weight product so that it can easily absorb into your skin.

3. L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Derm Initiatives 12% Pure Vitamin C + E + Salicylic Acid Serum

Dull skin doesn’t have to be your fate if you’re searching for the right non-comedogenic products to add to your regimen. This brightening serum, formulated with 12% pure Vitamins C and E, is non-greasy and easily absorbed into your skin without clogging pores. Visibly correct the appearance of fine lines and enlarged pores as you tackle uneven skin tone and texture. Just take a look at its effects in the before and after above!

How to use it: Come morning or night, apply a thin layer of this serum to your skin in between your cleansing and moisturizing steps. Be sure to order your products ranging from lightest formula to heaviest after cleansing.

Next Up: 17 Common Skin Problems and How To Address Them

Photo Courtesy of L'Oréal Paris