“Clean beauty” has taken over skincare aisles, promising safer, more natural products. While the idea sounds appealing, especially for those struggling with acne, there’s a growing misunderstanding: “Clean” doesn’t mean better for your skin — and it definitely doesn’t mean non-comedogenic aka non-pore clogging. The Problem with “Clean Beauty” “Clean ingredients” is a marketing term, not a regulated standard. Brands use it to suggest that their products are free of certain chemicals or synthetics. But here's the catch: many of those so-called “dirty” ingredients aren't so dirty and are actually clinically tested, stable, and less likely to clog pores than their natural alternatives. For example, coconut oil, shea butter, and essential oils — all well known in the clean beauty world — are notorious for being comedogenic, meaning they’re likely to clog pores and trigger breakouts. On the flip side, ingredients like glycolic or salicylic acid, often shunned in clean beauty, are acne-safe and dermatologist-approved. Natural Isn’t Always Gentler Natural doesn’t always mean gentle. Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, and citrus extracts may be labeled as “clean,” but they can irritate sensitive skin, disrupt the skin barrier, and cause allergic reactions — which is bad news for acne-prone skin already dealing with inflammation. Acne Needs Science, Not Hype If you’re battling acne, the focus should be on evidence-based, non-comedogenic, and well-formulated skincare — not on whether a product fits into a vague “clean” checklist. Many “clean” products lack preservatives (to appear more natural), increasing the risk of bacterial contamination, which is another acne trigger. Bottom Line Don’t let “clean” labels fool you. When it comes to acne, what matters is how ingredients interact with your skin, not how natural or trendy they sound. Always check for non-comedogenic formulas, and lean into science-backed treatments — not marketing buzzwords. Work With an Acne Expert Everyone’s skin is different, and what causes breakouts for one person might not for another. That’s why it’s essential to work with an acne expert — who can help you customize your skincare products and routine based on your specific skin type, acne type, and lifestyle. The right guidance can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration. For more tips and acne myth busters just like this follow us on Instagram and TikTok @weloveacne or send us an email at info@weloveacne.com.