Non-comedogenic makeup favorites for the breakout prone girlies
As sensitive, breakout-prone skin girlies, Kenzie and I are all about non-comedogenic products. Non-comedogenic means that the product is formulated to avoid clogging pores, which is crucial for preventing acne and blackheads. Non-comedogenic products are specifically designed to minimize the risk of pore blockages, making them perfect for oily or acne-prone skin. While some people may not be as affected by pore-clogging ingredients, for us, (since we’re prone to clogged pores which leads to the occasional pick), this makes all the difference!
That said, not all products labeled “acne-safe” or “non-comedogenic” are actually free of pore-clogging ingredients. So, we always double-check everything ourselves using a website called acneclinicnyc. Ingredients can even vary between different shades of the same product, so it’s important to check that too! Below, we’ve listed our top makeup picks—each of which we’ve personally tested and confirmed as safe for our skin. A makeup routine so good, you could sleep in it and not break out!! (Yes, i’ve tested that, but it’s not recommended;)).
Ellie’s picks
This is my all-time favorite concealer. I keep one in my purse at all times and probably own five. It has SPF, which makes it perfect for covering acne spots or dark marks while preventing further sun damage. Yes, it’s pricey—I’ve searched for dupes—but nothing compares. I usually use the shade Ivory, but if I’m matching my face to my body with foundation, I’ll switch to shade Ocher.
A hybrid primer and skin tint, this product gives light coverage, a subtle glow, and SPF 20. I love it for evening out my skin tone and adding a natural glow. Since the coverage is minimal, it also works as a primer with additional layers on top. I use shades 4 and 5 depending on my tan.
For a bit more coverage, this tinted serum foundation from Ciele is a favorite. It offers more coverage than the GEE Prime Skin but can be applied lightly for a sheer finish. Plus, it has SPF 50. I wear shade 05.
Merit has so many fantastic products, and most of them are non-comedogenic. I adore this sheer bronzing balm for no-makeup makeup days. My go-to shades are Siene and Clay.
This one is a classic. It’s a staple in my makeup routine when I want a more a little more of a contoured look. I use the Fair-Medium shade.
These are my go-to cream blushes. I literally have all the shades and use them almost every day. My favorites are Mars, Mood, and Fox.
Benetint was one of the first makeup products I ever used. It’s perfect for when I’m not wearing much makeup but still want a natural flush. Perfect for the gym, or as a base under my Merit blushes. I use the original shade.
I love this glowy balm stick—it gives that dewy look without too much shimmer. I use it on my eyes for a subtle touch over eyeshadow. The transparent shade is perfect for a natural glow.
Brow products are something I’m picky about when it comes to ingredients. Anything pore-clogging gives me eyebrow breakouts, so I always reach for this one. It’s lightweight, holds my brows in place, and leaves no residue.
I don’t typically use a lot of setting powder, but when I do, this one is my go-to. I love a dewy, glowy look, and this powder does a great job of controlling shine in my T-zone without making my skin too matte. I use shade Comfy.
Kenzie’s picks
I’m with Ellie on this one- there is nothing I've found that compares to this concealer. It’s so easy to apply and gives a flawless finish. Plus it has SPF!!
This is my absolute favorite sunscreen/primer combo. It has a subtle yellow tint that prevents any white cast and leaves my skin glowing, making it the perfect base for makeup!
The perfect setting powder that adds a touch of coverage without making your skin look too matte. It leaves your face looking flawless and smooth, without the cakey or heavy feel.
I love basically everything from Ciele, but a recent pick up is their contour stick. I usually warm it up on the back of my hand before picking it up with a brush for easy application. It adds warmth and definition to the face while also providing SPF. Best of both worlds!
This blush is so creamy and pigmented- definitely my most-used blush. I loved the shades Freckle and Toasted Teddy for a natural, flushed look.
This is like the Drunk Elephant bronzing drops, but better! It has SPF 50 and gives an even, natural glow that I prefer over other bronzing drops. I either use it all over, or sometimes like a liquid bronzer in certain areas I want to warm up.
This is the perfect glowy base. It has replaced my Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Filter (due to pore-clogging ingredients). It gives a fresh, awake look thats perfect for everyday wear! (Shade Starglow and Roseglow are safe, but unfortunately Sunglow contains a pore clogger).
Another blush I reach for all the time! My favorite shade is Apres, a cool berry tone. In the summer, I love using Fox, a warm terracotta.
This product is simply perfection. It gives your skin a beautiful, healthy-glow and works perfectly for a night-out look. It provides some coverage while blurring pores and giving a radiant finish.
A creamy, skin-like foundation that I love to mix with my skincare for a natural, dewy finish. It’s perfect for everyday while still offering great coverage.