Moisturizing Acne-Prone Skin

By Dr. Josh Zeichner | Sunday, September 12, 2010

Many people are concerned that using a moisturizer will make them break out. It is true that some skin products and cosmetics can block pores and cause pimples. But even if you have acne, you can moisturize your face without causing breakouts. In fact, moisturizing is important in acne patients because shaving, washing and applying acne medicine to the face can dry the skin. 

Some moisturizers specifically indicate that they are noncomedogenic or non-pimple-forming. These are safe to use on acne-prone skin, even if they are not specifically labeled as oil-free. The truth is, acne patients can use either oil-free moisturizers or regular ones. Regular moisturizers work best for those who also have dry skin. Petrolatum, the oil found in regular moisturizers, is refined for cosmetic use and does not cause pimples.

However, patients with oily skin should choose an oil-free moisturizer. These products are less greasy than their petrolatum-containing counterparts, thanks to dimethicone, a silicone-based substance that moisturizes the skin without leading to breakouts.

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