Does moisturizer clog pores?

Why can moisturizer cause clogged pores?

Pores become clogged when oil, dead skin cells or dirt get trapped inside them. Face products, including lotions, can contribute to that buildup. Very oily skin is more susceptible, but dry skin can also develop clogged pores. Acne has other causes too, including hormonal changes and certain medicines, so a breakout does not automatically identify your moisturizer as the culprit.23

Moisturizers add moisture, which is a more useful job description than most of the prose on a jar. Some ingredients attract water; others form a surface layer that slows water loss. Keeping water in the skin and plugging a pore are different processes. Moisturizing remains part of caring for skin with clogged pores, although some emollients, products that soften skin, can aggravate acne.124

Which moisturizer should you choose?

Look for "noncomedogenic", "oil free" or "won't clog pores" on the label, rather than giving the jar points for sounding expensive. These are useful shopping filters. Even products labeled noncomedogenic can worsen acne in some people, so switch products if yours seems to make breakouts worse. Apply the same label check to makeup and other products you put on your face.56

Match the texture to how dry your skin is. Lotions suit mild facial dryness, creams suit moderate dryness, and ointments suit very dry, scaly areas. Ointments are the most occlusive, meaning they form the strongest barrier against water loss, and often feel greasy. A heavier texture is not automatically the better choice just because you need moisture.1

How should you moisturize without making things worse?

1. 1Wash gently in the morning and evening with a noncomedogenic cleanser and lukewarm water. Cleanse after heavy exercise too.
2. 2Apply an oil free moisturizer after cleansing to avoid dryness. Lotions are also best applied immediately after bathing to help retain water in the skin.
3. 3Avoid scrubbing, picking or squeezing clogged pores. Scrubbing can irritate skin and worsen acne; squeezing spots can cause scars.

Should you moisturize while using acne treatment?

Yes. Benzoyl peroxide, retinoids and salicylic acid can irritate skin, and moisturizer can support an acne treatment routine, especially with benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid. If a prescribed retinoid irritates your skin, your dermatologist can advise whether to apply moisturizer first. Do not change the medication amount or frequency without their help.47

An ordinary moisturizer helps manage dryness; treating existing acne often needs an acne medicine as well. Some moisturizers contain salicylic acid, which opens clogged pores, so check whether you are buying a moisturizer or a moisturizer with acne treatment. Acne treatment takes at least 6 to 8 weeks before fewer breakouts start to appear. That is a treatment timeline, not a reason to keep using a moisturizer that irritates you.7

When should you stop or get help?

Stop using a moisturizer that causes burning, stinging or a new facial rash. These are possible reactions to emollients, not signs that the product is clearing your pores. If an acne medicine causes irritation, burning or redness, discuss those effects with your doctor.16

See a doctor if spots are deep, painful or causing scars, if self treatment is not helping, or if acne affects your mental health. Hot, swollen or red skin also needs medical assessment. A new rash is not necessarily acne; a dermatologist can distinguish acne from conditions that need different treatment.37