Non-comedogenic

Non-comedogenic is a marketing label claiming that a product is unlikely to block hair follicles and cause comedones (blackheads and whiteheads). There is no FDA or EU regulatory standard for this term — brands self-certify. The underlying concept comes from comedogenicity ratings developed in animal models (rabbit ear assays) that have limited predictive value for human skin. Individual response varies by skin type, formulation concentration, and product layering. The term is a useful rough guide but should not be taken as a guarantee.

• Comedogenic Describing an ingredient or product with the potential to clog pores and cause blackheads or whiteheads.
• Patch test Applying a small amount of a product to a discreet skin area for 24–48 hours to check for adverse reactions before full use.