What does comedogenic mean?
Comedogenic is an adjective used to describe a substance, ingredient, or product that tends to cause or promote comedones. Comedones are blocked pores, commonly known as blackheads or whiteheads, and they are a major feature of many acne-prone skin conditions. In skincare discussions, the term appears on product labels and in descriptions of ingredients such as certain oils, waxes, and heavy formulations. Saying that something is comedogenic does not necessarily mean that it will cause a serious skin problem, nor does it imply that the product is irritating; it specifically concerns the likelihood of pore blockage. The opposite idea is usually expressed as non-comedogenic. The word is most useful when comparing how different formulations behave on the skin, especially for people who are prone to clogged pores or recurring blemishes.
adjectiveTending to cause or promote comedones, especially by clogging pores. In skincare and dermatology, it describes substances or products associated with the formation of blackheads, whiteheads, and similar plugged pores.
- Tending to cause or promote comedones, especially clogged pores such as blackheads and whiteheads.
"The formulation was tested because certain oils can be comedogenic."
"Some heavy oils are considered comedogenic because they can clog pores."
"Consumers often compare comedogenic ingredients before choosing a moisturizer."
A cream can be soothing and still be comedogenic—comfort and pore-clogging are not the same thing.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
How comedogenic is actually used
Chiefly used in dermatology, skincare, and cosmetics. It indicates a tendency to promote comedones rather than guaranteeing that a product will cause them in every person.
Easily confused with comedogenic
A comedone is an individual blocked pore or plugged bump, whereas comedogenic describes something that tends to cause or promote such bumps.