Comedogenicity
Pronunciation: koh-mee-doh-jeh-NIH-sih-tee
The propensity of a topical substance to promote the formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) by blocking skin pores, an important labelling and safety consideration in aesthetic product documentation.
Full Definition
Comedogenicity refers to the tendency of a cosmetic or dermatological ingredient or formulation to clog follicular ostia, leading to the development of open comedones (blackheads) or closed comedones (whiteheads). In aesthetic dermatology, the term is relevant when recommending post-procedure skin care products, particularly after treatments that compromise the skin barrier. Products are often labelled as 'non-comedogenic' to indicate they have been tested or formulated to minimise this risk. Editors encounter the term in product descriptions, aftercare instructions, regulatory submissions, and comparative product claims. The adjective form is 'comedogenic'; the antonym is 'non-comedogenic'.
Usage
Usage note: The term 'non-comedogenic' has no universally regulated definition; editors reviewing product claims should flag unsupported use of this descriptor in regulatory contexts.
In Context
- "The post-procedure moisturiser was selected on the basis of low comedogenicity scores." — Product selection protocol
- "All aftercare products recommended in the leaflet are labelled non-comedogenic." — Patient aftercare leaflet