When it comes to removing makeup, sunscreen, and the day's debris, nothing beats the gentle, skin-nourishing power of a cleansing oil. Yet, one question always comes up: Is an oil-based cleanser comedogenic?
As a brand committed to clean, effective ingredients and clear healthy skin, we're here to set the record straight and dive into the science behind cleansing oils and your pores.
What Does "Comedogenic" Even Mean?
The term comedogenic is derived from comedo, which is the scientific term for a blocked pore (blackhead or whitehead). In short, a comedogenic ingredient or product is one that is likely to clog the skin's pores.
When a product is comedogenic, it can create a film on the skin's surface. For dry skin, this occlusive layer is often beneficial as it helps lock in moisture. However, for oily or acne-prone skin, which already has a high rate of sebum production, this extra layer can trap existing oil and impurities, leading to pore dilation and the formation of blemishes.
Naturally, because a cleansing oil has an oily formulation, it is often—and wrongly—accused of being pore-clogging.
The Truth: It All Comes Down to Formulation and Technique
The risk of a cleansing oil promoting comedones depends on two crucial factors: what’s in it and how you use it.
1. Formulation: The Right Oils Matter
Originally, many cleansing oils contained heavier oils, which have a higher risk of being occlusive. Plus, many lack natural emulsifying ingredients which help break down dirt and oils. This poor formulation style makes the cleansing oils not effective at cleansing and leaves the face feeling oily with dirt and makeup still sitting on the skin surface. We approach cleansing oils entirely differently.
Lighter cold-pressed natural oils are specifically blended to emulsify and break down dirt, makeup, and impurities. The Makeup Cleansing Oil smoothly glides on skin to prevent rubbing and causing irritation during cleansing. Less friction during cleansing is critical for sensitive, sensitized, and rosacea-prone skin. This smart natural formula utilizes oils which are known to be light and compatible with both dry and oily skin types, carrying a zero or very low comedogenicity rating making it acne friendly.
2. Technique: The Crucial Role of Emulsification
This is the most important factor. Even the best oils can feel heavy if they don't rinse off properly. We believe that cleansers should do what they are made for and easily cleanse the skin without having to rub or pull on the skin. The Makeup Cleansing Oil is formulated with emulsifying ingredients that allow it to emulsify—or transform into a slightly milky emulsion—the moment it touches water and rinses off the skin leaving it clean and comfortable.
This is the technique you want to use:
For best results apply 1-2 pumps of Makeup Cleansing Oil into dry hands and then gently massage the oil cleanser in a circular motion onto the skin for at least 30 seconds. This allows the formula to break down dirt, SPF, stubborn makeup, and even mascara. After 30 seconds add lukewarm water and massage as you rinse your face.
For a deeper cleanse, use the Makeup Cleansing Oil as part of a double cleanse. For normal, combination, and oily skin types, we recommend pairing the Makeup Cleansing Oil with the Vitamin Detox Cleanser. For dry, dehydrated, and sensitive skin types, we recommend pairing the Makeup Cleansing Oil with the Gentle Ceramide Gel Cleanser.
