---
title: "Non-Comedogenic — Glossary | School of Dermatology"
url: https://schoolofdermatology.com/glossary/non-comedogenic
description: "Learn what non-comedogenic means, its limitations as an unregulated term, and how to choose products that won't clog pores for acne-prone skin."
lang: en
---

Glossary

# Non-Comedogenic

non-kom-ih-doh-JEN-ik

## Definition

Non-comedogenic is a term used to describe skincare and cosmetic products that are formulated to be less likely to clog pores and cause comedones (blackheads and whiteheads). Products labeled non-comedogenic avoid ingredients that have high comedogenicity ratings, such as coconut oil, cocoa butter, isopropyl myristate, and certain heavy waxes. However, it is important to note that the term 'non-comedogenic' is not regulated by the FDA or any governing body — there are no standardized tests that a product must pass to carry this label. Individual responses vary significantly based on skin type, genetics, the product's overall formulation, and environmental factors. Despite its limitations, the non-comedogenic label can be a useful starting point for people with acne-prone or oily skin when choosing products. Patch testing new products is always recommended regardless of labeling.

## Related Terms

Comedogenic: https://schoolofdermatology.com/glossary/comedogenic
Comedone: https://schoolofdermatology.com/glossary/comedone
Sebum: https://schoolofdermatology.com/glossary/sebum
Pore: https://schoolofdermatology.com/glossary/pore

Was this definition helpful?

## Structured data

```json
[
  {
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "DefinedTerm",
    "name": "Non-Comedogenic",
    "description": "Non-comedogenic is a term used to describe skincare and cosmetic products that are formulated to be less likely to clog pores and cause comedones (blackheads and whiteheads). Products labeled non-comedogenic avoid ingredients that have high comedogenicity ratings, such as coconut oil, cocoa butter, isopropyl myristate, and certain heavy waxes. However, it is important to note that the term 'non-comedogenic' is not regulated by the FDA or any governing body — there are no standardized tests that a product must pass to carry this label. Individual responses vary significantly based on skin type, genetics, the product's overall formulation, and environmental factors. Despite its limitations, the non-comedogenic label can be a useful starting point for people with acne-prone or oily skin when choosing products. Patch testing new products is always recommended regardless of labeling.",
    "url": "https://schoolofdermatology.com/glossary/non-comedogenic",
    "inDefinedTermSet": {
      "@type": "DefinedTermSet",
      "name": "School of Dermatology Skincare Glossary",
      "url": "https://schoolofdermatology.com/glossary"
    }
  },
  {
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "BreadcrumbList",
    "itemListElement": [
      {
        "@type": "ListItem",
        "position": 1,
        "name": "Home",
        "item": "https://schoolofdermatology.com"
      },
      {
        "@type": "ListItem",
        "position": 2,
        "name": "Glossary",
        "item": "https://schoolofdermatology.com/glossary"
      },
      {
        "@type": "ListItem",
        "position": 3,
        "name": "Non-Comedogenic",
        "item": "https://schoolofdermatology.com/glossary/non-comedogenic"
      }
    ]
  }
]
```