Fragrance-Free, "Non-Comedogenic", Hypoallergenic: What Do These Mean?

Skincare labels can be confusing.
When you have acne or sensitive skin, you want products that will not make things worse. But what do the words on the bottle actually mean? Some terms are helpful, while others are mostly marketing.

Understanding the most common labels can help you choose better products and avoid irritation or breakouts.

Fragrance-Free
This means the product does not contain added scent. That includes natural perfumes, synthetic fragrance, and essential oils used for smell.

• Why it matters: Fragrance is a common cause of irritation, especially for sensitive or acne-prone skin. Even natural scents like lavender or citrus oils can trigger redness or inflammation.
• Tip: Watch out for products labeled unscented. These may still include masking fragrance to cover the smell of other ingredients.

Non-Comedogenic
This label means the product is made to avoid clogging pores. It should not contain heavy oils or waxes that trap bacteria or lead to blackheads and pimples.

• Why it matters: Clogged pores are one of the main causes of acne. Using products with pore-blocking ingredients can make breakouts worse, even if the product feels gentle.
• Tip: Non-comedogenic is not a regulated term. Brands can use it even if some ingredients might still clog pores for certain skin types. Always test new products and read ingredient lists if you are unsure.

Hypoallergenic
This means the product is designed to be less likely to cause an allergic reaction.

• Why it matters: Sensitive skin often reacts to common ingredients like preservatives, fragrance, or certain plant extracts. Hypoallergenic products usually avoid these triggers.
• Tip: Like non-comedogenic, this term is not strongly regulated. One person’s allergy-safe product could still cause a reaction in someone else.

What these labels do not mean

• They do not guarantee a product is safe for all skin types.
• They do not mean the product is effective for acne treatment.
• They do not replace patch testing. Always test a new product on a small area first, especially if your skin is already irritated.

Other helpful terms to look for

• Oil-free: These products do not contain added oils that may clog pores.
• Alcohol-free: Some types of alcohol can dry or irritate the skin. Look for gentler formulas if your skin is dry or sensitive.
• Gentle or for sensitive skin: These often have fewer harsh ingredients, though the terms themselves are not regulated.

Bottom line
Labels like fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic are useful starting points. But they are not perfect. Always check ingredient lists and see how your skin responds.

The best skincare is the one that works for your skin, not just what sounds right on the label.

Sources to learn more:
Mayo Clinic | National Institute of Health | Johns Hopkins