Does it sometimes seem that no matter what you try you can’t keep blackheads, white heads and uncomfortable bumps from forming on your face, body, or even your scalp? If so, it could be the shampoo or conditioner you are using. Thankfully, there are several steps you can take to start banishing blemishes and get started on the path towards clearer skin and scalp. One of those steps includes putting away your old acne-causing hair cleansing products and reaching for a non comedogenic shampoo and conditioner instead. Let’s get into it.
Table of Contents
- Non Comedogenic Shampoos, Conditioners, and Hair Products
- Non Comedogenic Shampoo List
- Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo
- About This Shampoo
- Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
- Garnier Fructis Hydra Recharge Fortifying Shampoo
- About This Shampoo
- Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
- Neutrogena T / Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Daily Control 2-in-1 Dandruff Shampoo
- About This Shampoo
- Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
- Pantene Curly Hair Shampoo Pro-V Curl Perfection Shampoo
- About This Shampoo
- Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
- Tresemmé Smooth & Silky Shampoo Touchable Softness
- About This Shampoo
- Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
- Aveeno Pure Renewal Gentle Shampoo
- About This Shampoo
- Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
- Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo
- About This Shampoo
- Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
- 2-in-1 Head & Shoulders Classic Clean Shampoo
- About This Shampoo
- Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
- Johnson’s Baby Shampoo – No More Tears
- About This Shampoo
- Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
- Best Drugstore Shampoo For Acne Prone Skin
- Best Hair Conditioner For Acne Prone Skin
- The Naked Bee Shampoo and Conditioner
- About This Conditioner
- Why They’re Non-Comedogenic
- Essence Skin Saving Milk Conditioner
- About This Conditioner
- Why They’re Non-Comedogenic
- Pantene Pro-V Classic 2 in 1 conditioner
- About This Conditioner
- Why It’s Non-Comedogenic
- Sebamed Repair Conditioner
- About This Conditioner
- Why This Conditioner is Non-Comedogenic
- Biotin Collagen OGX conditioner
- About This Conditioner
- Why This Conditioner is Non-Comedogenic
- Moroccanoil Hair Conditioner
- About This Conditioner
- Why This Conditioner is Non-Comedogenic
- Conditioner For Acne Prone Skin
- CLEAR 2 PERFECTION Non-Comedogenic Shampoo & Conditioner
- About This Conditioner
- Why They’re Non-Comedogenic
- Non Comedogenic Hair Products
- Non Comedogenic Dry Shampoo
- Act+Acre Plant Based Dry Shampoo
- About This Dry Shampoo
- Why This Dry Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
- Non Comedogenic Hair Spray
- Free & Clear Firm Hold Hairspray
- About This Hair Spray
- Why This Hair Spray is Non-Comedogenic
- Non Comedogenic Pomade
- Challenger Men’s Clean Cream Pomade
- About This Pomade
- Why This Pomade is Non-Comedogenic
- Non Comedogenic Hair Serum
- Frizz-Ease Hair Serum Original Formula
- About This Serum
- Why This Serum is Non-Comedogenic
- Non Comedogenic Hair Oil
- Handcraft Grapeseed Oil
- About This Oil
- Why This Oil is Non-Comedogenic
- What Shampoo Is Best For Acne Prone Skin?
- Non-Comedogenic Shampoo and Conditioner: FAQs
- Non Comedogenic Shampoos and Conditioners Do Exist!
Non Comedogenic Shampoos, Conditioners, and Hair Products
Non Comedogenic Shampoo List
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo
About This Shampoo
Cruelty-free and coming in a trendy gray pump bottle, this non-comedogenic shampoo by Living Proof has reviewers raving. It smells great, does a fantastic job lifting oils without stripping moisture and won’t weigh the hair down. Those with fine hair seem to especially benefit from this high-end shampoo, as many say they can go a day or two without washing and it still keeps their hair looking and smelling great.
Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
This shampoo is made without sulfates and a lot of the icky ingredients we mentioned above. It also enables you to wash your hair less, which means less product comes in contact with your skin.
Despite the hefty price tag, reviewers insist that the shampoo is worth every penny.
Garnier Fructis Hydra Recharge Fortifying Shampoo
About This Shampoo
Encapsulated in Garneir’s signature green bottle, Garnier Fructis Hydra Recharge Fortifying Shampoo is a great pick for those wishing to purchase a shampoo that cleans well but still hydrates. Reviewers state that this has been a long time staple of theirs and does well to clean and moisturize.
Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
The Garnier Hydra Recharge shampoo is non-comedogenic because of its ingredients, and also because it is infused with skin loving fruit like goji berry, grapefruit, passionfruit and kiwi. Also, Vitamin B3 and B6 can help nourish the scalp rather than irritate it.
Neutrogena T / Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Daily Control 2-in-1 Dandruff Shampoo
About This Shampoo
Though the packaging is simple and plain, the truth is that this product packs a punch in terms of what it claims to do. When it comes to controlling dandruff, this Neutrogena shampoo is top notch. Reviewers rave about how their scalp stays dandruff-free along with its affordable price point.
Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
This shampoo is packed with ingredients to help your skin and scalp stay acne free. Specifically, the Vitamin E and Pyrithione Zinc in it relieves itching and flaking, while the conditioning agents in the shampoo help to soften your hair for manageability.
As far as acne is concerned, reviewers give the product a thumbs up, saying it has done wonders for keeping skin that comes in contact with it from acne flare-ups.
Pantene Curly Hair Shampoo Pro-V Curl Perfection Shampoo
About This Shampoo
Designed with curly girls in mind, the Pantene Pro-V Curl Perfection shampoo delivers in terms of holding waves and curls. Those who have used it claim that it keeps hair frizz-free while also maintaining the hold of their curls and waves all day. Also, those with fine hair rave about it’s lightweight formula that leaves hair feeling clean and not weighed down.
Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
Parabens can do a number on skin by overstimulating your cells which can cause breakouts. Thankfully, this Pantene formula skips parabens while also adding moisture that your scalp and tresses need to stay healthy and nourished.
Tresemmé Smooth & Silky Shampoo Touchable Softness
About This Shampoo
Infused with argan oil, this well-known name brand offers those with frizzy and unruly hair a solution to their daily hair woes. Buyers agree that this Tresemmé shampoo does wonders for moisturizing thick and unruly hair, leaving smooth and long-lasting results in its wake.
Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
Argan oil is one of those oils that has been a approved as non-comedogenic in most cases, so if you are looking for a shampoo to use that’ll soothe your frizz and won’t break you out, this is likely the one to grab.
Aveeno Pure Renewal Gentle Shampoo
About This Shampoo
Coming in a slim white bottle, this rebalancing shampoo by Aveeno might be just what your hair AND skin needs. Those who have used the product claims that it did wonders for their oily scalp and hair, leaving their hair feeling clean without added oil which can also make its way down to the skin.
Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
Apart from gently lifting oils, this seaweed infused shampoo is sulfate-free with vitamins, proteins and minerals to keep your hair healthy and strong while also being kind to your skin.
Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo
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About This Shampoo
This shampoo is wrapped in basic black and white packaging, but despite the mediocre appearance, many love the results. The OLAPLEX shampoo is marketed towards people with damaged or color-treated hair. Buyers state that the shampoo has left their hair feeling smooth and their scalp free of irritation. Beware, however, that there are many mixed reviews on this one, thus the performance of this shampoo may depend on your hair type.
Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
This shampoo is free of Sulfates SLS and SLES which are often culprits for zits and flare ups.
2-in-1 Head & Shoulders Classic Clean Shampoo
About This Shampoo
Head and Shoulders is a well-known brand name and there’s good reason for that. Despite its low price point, Head and Shoulders does a great job at eliminating embarrassing dandruff. Those that have tried the 2-in-1 Classic Clean Head and Shoulder shampoo agree that this is one of the best dandruff shampoos you can buy on the market.
Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
Is Head and Shoulders non comedogenic?
Because dandruff can be caused by the buildup of too much oil, it makes sense that Head and Shoulders would be a great pick for a non comedogenic shampoo option. Designed to eliminate oil from the scalp, it is unlikely to cause breakouts on other areas of your body it comes in contact with.
Johnson’s Baby Shampoo – No More Tears
About This Shampoo
This signature baby shampoo from J&J comes in a warm orange color and is gentle enough for baby skin. It is hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested and soap-free making it non-drying for baby. Moms and dads agree that this gentle formula is perfect for babies and adults, alike.
Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
Is baby shampoo non comedogenic?
Because of its non-irritating formula, a shampoo like Johnson’s No More Tears shampoo will go easy on your skin and is less likely to cause breakouts after you wash your hair. Some even rotate between this shampoo and others for a gentler and acne-friendly option for washing their hair.
Best Drugstore Shampoo For Acne Prone Skin
Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo
About This Shampoo
This self-proclaimed “gentle” clarifying hair shampoo is a favorite among Neutrogena fans. The shampoo claims to eradicate residue and to cause your favorite daily shampoo to work even better. Apply the Neutrogena shampoo only once a week to wash away filthy dirt and grim from your hair and scalp to keep your pores clog-free. But what do the reviewers say? According to most, this shampoo works great at removing leftover build up from hair products, and does not cause acne.
Why This Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
The shampoo is a classic clear which signifies that it is void of colorant and dyes. This is a major plus when it comes to controlling acne-prone skin.
Best Drugstore Shampoo For Sensitive Scalp
Desert Essence Fragrance Free Shampoo
About This Conditioner
Perfect for both men and women, this shampoo is loaded with natural and “good-for-you” ingredients including aloe vera, green tea extract, nettle extract and more. Reviewers describe the Desert Essence shampoo as being great for skin and scalp.
Why This Conditioner is Non-Comedogenic
This shampoo is unscented and free of harsh dyes and chemicals meaning you may be able to breath easy when it comes to breakouts on this one. Just be wary of certain oils that this shampoo contains jojoba oil may (or may not) cause issues for some.
Best Hair Conditioner For Acne Prone Skin
The Naked Bee Shampoo and Conditioner
About This Conditioner
If you’re looking for something gentle and natural, you’re in for a treat. The Naked Bee shampoo and conditioner is a great pick for those desiring a shampoo that is more natural, as it is loaded with nourishing ingredients such as Vitamin E, D, kale, grapeseed oil and honey.
Why They’re Non-Comedogenic
Honey works as a natural antiseptic and grapeseed oil is a moisturizing oil that is known for its ability to keep pores clog free. Thus, this is the perfect shampoo and conditioner set for those wishing to limit breakouts on their skin and scalp.
Essence Skin Saving Milk Conditioner
About This Conditioner
This shampoo and conditioner duo by VMV Hypoallergenics works to keep your skin free of breakouts while adding nourishment and moisture. Buyers love its skin healthy ingredients, and can co-sign on the fact that it doesn’t break them out. The catch-22 seems to be that there isn’t much of the product in the bottle and some find it frustrating that they go through the conditioner and shampoo so fast.
Why They’re Non-Comedogenic
It can be hard to find a shampoo and conditioner specifically labeled as being non-comedogenic, but this conditioner and shampoo duo defies all odds. Specifically formulated to be friendly to your skin, this set is free of all fragrances, dyes, phthalates, parabens and preservatives.
Pantene Pro-V Classic 2 in 1 conditioner
About This Conditioner
Another winner from Pantene, the Pantene 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner is just as effective as it is convenient. Reviewers state that this product has left their hair bouncy and shiny, and that it smells great, to boot.
Why It’s Non-Comedogenic
This 2-in-1 conditions both hair and scalp while working to remove buildup which is often the culprit of icky breakouts.
Sebamed Repair Conditioner
About This Conditioner
Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested, this specialty conditioner from SebaMed has gotten a lot of people excited. Buyers claim the conditioner made their hair thicker and softer. Some with color-treated hair haven’t had the best results though, so you may need to skip this one if your locks are chemically treated.
Why This Conditioner is Non-Comedogenic
This conditioner and shampoo was designed with people who suffer from sensitive scalp in mind. The ingredients were uniquely formulated for sensitive scalps, is dermatologist recommended and can be used on all hair textures.
Biotin Collagen OGX conditioner
About This Conditioner
From the popular brand of OGX comes this unique Biotin Collagen conditioner. It comes in a bright purple bottle and its signature oval shape. Reviews agree that the conditioner does a great job softening even the coarsest hair, while giving thin haired fans the appearance of thicker and fuller locks.
Why This Conditioner is Non-Comedogenic
Hydrolyzed wheat protein and added vitamins like B7 make this conditioner shine in terms of skincare. Both ingredients make scalp and skin look healthier, smoother, softer and well-nourished.
Moroccanoil Hair Conditioner
About This Conditioner
A high-end choice, buyers love this Moroccan oil infused conditioner. Not only do they say it smells great, but also that it is great for smoothing and hydrating dry and frizzy locks.
Why This Conditioner is Non-Comedogenic
Argan oil is one of those oils that is known for being non-comedogenic and great for people of all skin types. Thus, Morrocan oil, which is really just argan oil from Morocco, may just be a winner for those suffering with scalp acne and body breakouts.
Conditioner For Acne Prone Skin
CLEAR 2 PERFECTION Non-Comedogenic Shampoo & Conditioner
About This Conditioner
Available in both shampoo and conditioner, this specially formulated set by C2P has received outstanding reviews from users who have sensitive skin, allergies or severe acne. Not only does the conditioner and shampoo work great on hair, but many have said that it has worked to clear and improve their skin so that it looks more radiant than ever before.
Why They’re Non-Comedogenic
This shampoo and conditioner set was specially formulated by a paramedical esthetician with 30 years of experience who underwent battles with breakouts herself. As such, she developed a special non-comedogenic recipe with a citrusy scent able to tame your mane while also nourishing your skin. It’s a win-win!
Non Comedogenic Hair Products
Non Comedogenic Dry Shampoo
Act+Acre Plant Based Dry Shampoo
About This Dry Shampoo
This Act + Acre dry shampoo comes in a slim and small canister, but users say not to let that fool you. This dry shampoo does the job with only six natural ingredients, including rice and fulvic acid. It is also a cruelty-free company. Score!
Why This Dry Shampoo is Non-Comedogenic
Made with only six plant based ingredients to deliver nutrients to your hair and scalp, this dry shampoo isn’t likely to cause your skin much irritation like typical commercial dry shampoos might.
Non Comedogenic Hair Spray
Free & Clear Firm Hold Hairspray
About This Hair Spray
Another winner from the Free and Clear line, this hair spray was made especially for those with sensitive skin and scalps. Reviewers attest to the Free and Clear spray being effective both for keeping hair in place and for keeping breakouts at bay with minimal irritation from ingredients.
Why This Hair Spray is Non-Comedogenic
This hairspray is fragrance-free, was specifically designed for those with sensitive skin and is both dermatologist tested and recommended.
Non Comedogenic Pomade
Challenger Men’s Clean Cream Pomade
About This Pomade
This pomade by Challenger was formulated for men but can certainly be used by both men and women. It comes in a sleek black canister and provides a medium-firm hold with a matte finish. Users love that it doesn’t clog pores and provides a great hold with no fragrance.
Why This Pomade is Non-Comedogenic
This fragrance-free pomade was specifically designed to provide great hold without causing breakouts. It is also water-based and soluble which means less chance of this pomade clogging up your pores.
Non Comedogenic Hair Serum
Frizz-Ease Hair Serum Original Formula
About This Serum
John Frieda Frizz-Ease Hair Serum Original Formula is known for being a top contender in the world of frizz-control. People with all hair types and textures have given the thumbs up to this tried and true classic, saying that it does wonders to keep hair smooth, silky and frizz-free.
Why This Serum is Non-Comedogenic
Frizz-Ease is formulated with silk proteins, which can actually improve skin elasticity, prevent wrinkles and tighten skin. Also, a little goes a long way with this serum, so you won’t have to worry about too much of it coming into contact with your skin and clogging up your pores.
Non Comedogenic Hair Oil
Handcraft Grapeseed Oil
About This Oil
This 100% natural grapeseed oil from Handcraft Blends is packed with naturally occuring vitamins such as A, E and K. It is a lightweight oil that absorbs into skin and hair, leaving it silky smooth and moisturized.
Why This Oil is Non-Comedogenic
Because of it being lightweight by nature, this is one of the acne-approved oils that can be applied to skin and hair without having to worry about clogged pores and breakouts. It is much preferred over coconut oil for acne sufferers despite coconut oil being the more popular pick.
What Shampoo Is Best For Acne Prone Skin?
So, which shampoo is best for breakouts?
The shampoo that is best for breakouts will be one that nixes most of the above additives, and contains others instead. Note that not every one of the aforementioned ingredients is a bonafide recipe for breakouts on your skin, as each person is unique when it comes to skin sensitivity.
For example, coconut and jojoba oils may actually benefit from acne-prone skin as both nourish and soothe, and can even provide antiseptic benefits for bacteria.
Having said that, there are hair care products to look for that may specifically help relieve acne, rather than cause it. These include tea tree oil shampoos, ACV (apple cider vinegar) shampoos, antibacterial shampoos and even shampoos infused with salicylic acid are all great options for soothing and clearing inflamed skin.
Non-Comedogenic Shampoo and Conditioner: FAQs
Can Shampoo Clog Pores?
Yes. Shampoos that contain heavy oils or acne-causing ingredients, such as those mentioned above, are much more likely to cause problems on your face, skin and scalp than others.
Can Shampoos Cause Acne?
Sure can. Because acne pimples are simply caused by oil glands that have become clogged and infected, you can expect that shampoo that comes in contact with your skin, including the skin on your scalp, is likely to cause some issues. This is especially true as you rinse your shampoo and other hair products out… all of the ingredients contained within the shampoo are going to run down your face, shoulders, back and other acne prone places.
What Does Non Comedogenic Mean?
Simply put, the meaning of non comedogenic is that a certain product will be less likely to cause our skin bumps and irritation. These products are specifically designed to forgo clogging pores to keep your skin healthy and clear.
Sounds great, right? Not so fast.
Although we always recommend that acne sufferers opt for a non comedogenic shampoo and conditioner, that isn’t to say that every product will work as it claims.
One of the biggest problems that people with acne-prone skin encounter as they are shopping for skin and hair care products is the fact that every person’s skin is different. A product labeled as “non-comedogenic” is, unfortunately, an unregulated term and is usually deciphered by testing the product in question on rabbit ears.
Aside from being cruel to animals, this process for testing whether or not a product will cause breakouts can be frustrating to say the least. What doesn’t cause pimples on rabbit skin may still very well cause issues for you, and vice versa.
Nevertheless the reason that you should try to reach for non comedogenic skincare, shampoos, conditioners and hair care is that they are often the safest products to go with when you are battling scalp, face or body acne in terms of ingredients and compositions versus other types on the market.
What Does Non Comedogenic Hair Products Mean?
Though you may have heard of non comedogenic skincare, it may come as a surprise that many hair products come non comedogenic, as well. This is because hair care products often make their way down to your neck, back, shoulders, forehead and hairline
as you sweat, and even as you wash products out of your hair. Your hair products may also permeate your clothing and eventually end up on your skin.
Non-comedogenic hair products will usually sell themselves as being such directly on the label, however, if they don’t, there are still ways to determine whether or not a particular hair product is right for you.
When looking for acne-friendly hair products, you’ll want to scan the label. Does this product claim to be non comedogenic, acne-friendly or non-acnegenic? If so, it doesn’t mean the product is in the clear. But it does mean you’re off to a good start.
Once you’ve scanned the front label, ski the product over and give the ingredients a once-over as well. Are there heavy oils in it that may clog the pores on your skin? Are there ingredients that you can barely pronounce, let alone know whether or not they are non comedogenic?
The following list of ingredients are natural culprits that may cause breakouts in some people:
- Coconut Butter
- Mink Oil
- Cocoa butter
- Shea Butter
- Coconut Oil
- Wheat Germ Oil
- Avocado Oil
- Caster Oil
You may also want to watch outfor the following ingredients as they are well known to clogged pores that lead to acne:
- Lanolins
- D&C Red Dyes
- Silicones
- isopropyl myristate and derivatives
- propylene glycol-2 (PPG-2)
Non Comedogenic Shampoos and Conditioners Do Exist!
As can be seen, there are several non-comedogenic shampoos and conditioners, as well as hair care products, that can be used to keep your skin acne free.
Always remember to look at the label of any shampoo, conditioner or hair care product you use before using it, and if a product tends to break you out, stop using it, even if the product is advertised as non-comedogenic.
Looking for more non comedogenic products? Check out this list of best non comedogenic foundations to keep your skin free from breakouts as well as these natural moisturizers that won’t clog up your pores.
We hope we introduced you to some new ones to try!
We do too!
Wow! There are a lot of non-comedogenic shampoos and conditioners to choose from! Thank you for sharing all of these choices. I’ve been using Head and Shoulders, but I might switch to something different next time. This list will be a great place to look when I’m ready to try something new.
I like Olaphlex ❤