mybest
Cosmetics and skincare

Helping You Find the Best

Close
  1. TOP
  2. Cosmetics and skincare
  3. 10 Best Non-Comedogenic Foundations 2023 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed
  • 10 Best Non-Comedogenic Foundations 2023 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed 1
  • 10 Best Non-Comedogenic Foundations 2023 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed 2
  • 10 Best Non-Comedogenic Foundations 2023 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed 3
  • 10 Best Non-Comedogenic Foundations 2023 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed 4
  • 10 Best Non-Comedogenic Foundations 2023 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed 5

10 Best Non-Comedogenic Foundations 2023 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed

Foundation is an essential part of many people’s everyday makeup routines. Using it can create a beautiful, smooth complexion whilst hiding spots and blemishes, and can make you feel more confident! From lightweight powders to liquids for full coverage, there is a plethora of drugstore and high-end foundations available online. However, while foundation is often used to hide pimples, some can end up clogging your pores and create further skin problems. 


For any type of skin, whether it being acne-prone, oily, dry, or sensitive, it is extremely important to look for non-comedogenic foundations that will cover your skin well while leaving it spotless. In our ranking, we'll introduce the best foundations in the UK that won't cause acne, from brands such as L’Oreal and Estée Lauder, available to buy on Amazon, John Lewis, and Boots. 

Last updated 14/07/2023
Claire Higgins
Expert
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

A qualified Beauty Therapist and Makeup Artist. I provide professional makeup services for all occasions, whether it be for a bride on their wedding day or backstage at a photo shoot. I also enjoy teaching through hosting live talks on my social media, masterclass events, and 1-1 training. My favourite style of makeup is most definitely vibrant. I love a colourful eyeshadow palette... or 10!

Claire Higgins's Profile
…Continue reading
mybest Editing Team
Guide
mybest UK
mybest Editing Team

A recommendation service that carefully researches each product and consults with experts across many disciplines. We are constantly creating new content to provide the best shopping experience from choosing ‘cosmetics’ to ‘food and drink’, ‘home appliances’ to ‘kids and baby’ products, reaching users all across the United Kingdom.

mybest Editing Team's Profile
…Continue reading
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

With Specialist Advice From Makeup Artist Claire Higgins

With Specialist Advice From Makeup Artist Claire Higgins

Claire is a qualified Beauty Therapist and Makeup Artist; she provides professional makeup services for all occasions from bridal to backstage at photo shoots. Claire also teaches masterclass events as well as 1-1 training, and when she gets the chance, enjoys sharing her expertise hosting live talks on her social media. She's a big fan of the vibrant style and loves a colourful palette... or 10!


Keep up-to-date with Claire through her Facebook and Instagram page where you can learn the latest tips and tricks when it comes to makeup application and also get inspired to try new looks!

What Exactly Does ‘Non-Comedogenic’ Mean?

What Exactly Does ‘Non-Comedogenic’ Mean?
A comedo, or comedones for plural, is the fancy term for the bump formed when excess sebum and dead skin cells block your pores, otherwise known as a blackhead (when the pore is open at the surface) or a whitehead (when the pore is closed).


When the blockage in your pores deepens, it can cause acne, although acne is not always a result of comedones. Therefore, calling a product ‘comedogenic’ means that it is likely to block your pores, and ‘non-comedogenic’ means that it will not.


While many products will call themselves ‘non-comedogenic’, there are no official regulations or official standards for non-comedogenic products. Products may say that they are ‘non-comedogenic’ even if they do contain a number of comedogenic ingredients. Therefore it is extra important that you, the buyer, know what to look for if you want to buy a non-comedogenic foundation!

How to Choose a Non-Comedogenic Foundation in the UK – Buying Guide

When shopping for a foundation, all the different varieties can be overwhelming, and it can be difficult to know what to look for. Therefore we have compiled some advice for things to consider when shopping for a non-comedogenic foundation, so that you can choose the perfect foundation for your skin.
1

Consider the Order and Contents of the Foundations' Ingredients

Many foundations look more or less the same, but when you compare their ingredients you may realise that they differ a great deal. The difference in ingredients can be what determines if the foundation is non-comedogenic, or if is is likely to block your pores.

Avoid Overly Moisturising, Drying, and Irritating Ingredients

Avoid Overly Moisturising, Drying, and Irritating Ingredients

Ingredients such as alcohol, talc, kaolin, silica, and nanoparticles can dry out your skin, which can in turn then lead to excess oil production and clogged pores. They can also cause skin irritation and flakiness. Irritating ingredients to look out for include silicones, synthetic fragrances, bismuth oxychloride, and lauroyl lysine.


Like 'dimethicone', silicones include ingredients ending in -cone, -conol, -silane, or -siloxane, and give foundation that silky consistency. However, they can be difficult to wash off completely, which can also lead to skin irritation. Whether your skin reacts to silicones or not depends on the person, so if you have been fine with silicone products in the past your skin might be fine with them in your foundation.

Claire Higgins
Makeup ArtistClaire Higgins

When you understand what your skin type and conditions are, your journey begins on the research front. It’s absolutely beneficial to educate yourself on what ingredients are making up the products you’re using daily


But it doesn’t stop there. To avoid the effects of what comedogenic ingredients can cause with repetitive use. Always ensure your skincare routine includes a pre-cleanse, this will loosen and remove traces of stubborn makeup, skincare products and SPF before you cleanse your skin. Toning after your cleanse will also help rid pores of any hidden nasties that may still be lurking.

Choose Ingredients Which Can Help to Clear Your Acne

Choose Ingredients Which Can Help to Clear Your Acne
Some foundations might not only be non-comedogenic but also include various ingredients that could even help to clear your acne while you are wearing it. These ingredients include salicylic acid, jojoba oil, argan oil, chamomile, and calendula.


  • Salicylic acid can help to clean your pores and prevent blockages and acne, although people with dry or sensitive skin might find it too drying. 
  • Jojoba oil is similar to the sebum that our skin naturally produces, so it can help to add moisture and balance to your skin.
  • Argan oil is also good at moisturizing skin, and it can also help to reduce excess sebum, hence reducing acne as well.
Claire Higgins
Makeup ArtistClaire Higgins

I know we’d like to think that all ingredients derived from nature will be better for our skin (as opposed to synthetic ingredients created in a lab). Unfortunately, just because they are natural, doesn’t make this so


To add onto this list, Hemp, Tea Tree, and Rosehip oil also promote hydration, have anti-inflammatory properties and aid with scar fading.

The Fewer Ingredients, the Better

The Fewer Ingredients, the Better
When looking for a non-comedogenic foundation that will not cause acne, it is better to look for foundations with fewer ingredients that are good for your skin. Products with fewer, simple, lightweight ingredients are generally less likely to clog your pores than those with a long list of heavy ingredients.
Claire Higgins
Makeup ArtistClaire Higgins

Keep it simple! By selecting a product with fewer ingredients, in a sense, you are sliming the chances of a reaction. And if a reaction does occur, it will be easier to target the source as there are limited components involved.

Pay Attention to the Order of the Ingredients List

Pay Attention to the Order of the Ingredients List
When looking for foundations, you should not only look at what ingredients they contain but also at the order of the list of ingredients. Ingredients listed high up on the list are included in bigger quantities than those towards the bottom.


Even if a product does have a few comedogenic ingredients, if they are listed towards the bottom of the ingredients list, only small quantities are included so they may not affect your skin as much. On the other hand, products with very comedogenic, irritating, or drying ingredients towards the top of the list should be avoided.

Claire Higgins
Makeup ArtistClaire Higgins

As explained, the ingredients of a higher percentage and most active will be at the top of the list, towards the bottom are ingredients with a lower volume. 


So if the product contains less desired ingredients (such as silicones, alcohol or fragrances) and they are listed towards the bottom of the list, they won’t pose as much of a threat to your skin. But this doesn’t mean they won’t have some negative impact on the skin instantly or over time.

2

Decide if You Prefer a Powder or Liquid Formula

A good way to narrow down which foundations to look for is determining beforehand if you want a liquid or powder foundation. Both types have different advantages and disadvantages which you should take into consideration.

For the Most Minimal-Pore Clogging and a Sheer Coverage Go For Mineral Powders

For the Most Minimal-Pore Clogging and a Sheer Coverage Go For Mineral Powders

Thick, heavy coverage foundations are more likely to clog your pores than thinner liquid foundations or powder foundations, while even thin liquid foundations can cause breakouts for some people. On the other hand powder foundations do not seep into your skin like liquid foundations, but sit on the surface of your skin, making them less likely to clog pores and cause acne. 


The lightweight consistency of mineral powder foundations helps you to get a sheer, natural finish and means that they are also easy to reapply during the day. However, those who want heavy coverage may find powder foundations to be too light. They can also be difficult to apply on drier skin, and they may highlight your fine lines and wrinkles.

Claire Higgins
Makeup ArtistClaire Higgins

On your search for a foundation, it is often favourable to use lightweight consistencies to avoid blocking the pores. A sheer liquid or mineral powder foundation will typically provide a light to medium coverage. 


Powder will suit most skin types, especially oily or acne-prone. But for drier skin with flaking, texture and fine lines the results may not be as desirable; this is where a sheer liquid foundation would offer a smoother finish

For Better Coverage and a Luminous Result, Pick Liquid or Cream Foundations

For Better Coverage and a Luminous Result, Pick Liquid or Cream Foundations
Liquid and cream foundations are great for covering up all your blemishes and discoloration. They are easy to blend, and can create a radiant, full coverage. Their creamy consistency can also be good for dry skin.


However, these thick foundations can cake up during the day due to warm weather and sweat. They also clog pores more easily as they seep into your skin more than powder foundations.

Claire Higgins
Makeup ArtistClaire Higgins

Liquid and cream foundations perform better than a powder when it comes to drier skin types, as it doesn’t highlight problem areas, provides hydration and a natural luminosity to the skin. 


But for an oilier complexion, this formula will need setting with a powder as it has a tendency to move throughout the day. In addition, without thorough removal, full-coverage foundations can lie in the pores and create a build-up of bacteria, so make sure you have a good cleansing routine to go with it.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

Top 10 Best Non-Comedogenic Foundations in the UK

We will now introduce the top 10 most recommended non-comedogenic foundations. We hope you can find the best foundation for your skin type that will not block your pores, and leave your skin beautifully acne free!
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Lily Lolo

Mineral Foundation SPF 15

Lily Lolo  Mineral Foundation SPF 15 1枚目

A Perfect Full Coverage Non-Comedogenic Mineral Foundation from a British Brand

2

bareMinerals

Original Loose Powder Foundation

bareMinerals  Original Loose Powder Foundation 1枚目

A Simple, Loose Powder Mineral Foundation that Will Not Block your Pores

3

Inika

Loose Mineral Foundation SPF 25

Inika Loose Mineral Foundation SPF 25 1枚目

A Natural Mineral Foundation to Hide and Prevent Breakouts

4

Covergirl + Olay

Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation

Covergirl + Olay  Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation 1枚目

A Hydrating Non-Comedogenic Foundation for Those on a Budget

5

L’Oreal

Paris True Match Foundation

L’Oreal  Paris True Match Foundation 1枚目

A Budget, Medium Coverage Liquid Foundation that Perfectly Matches Your Skin Tone

6

Oxygenetix

Oxygenating Foundation

Oxygenetix  Oxygenating Foundation 1枚目

A Soothing Treatment Liquid Foundation that Boosts Healing

7

Dermablend

Cover Creme Full Coverage Foundation

Dermablend  Cover Creme Full Coverage Foundation 1枚目

A Creamy Foundation to Conceal All Skin Problems

8

IT Cosmetics

Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream With SPF 50+

IT Cosmetics  Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream With SPF 50+ 1枚目

Heaps of Hydration in One Foundation

9

Estée Lauder

Double Wear Stay-In-Place Foundation Makeup SPF10

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Foundation Makeup SPF10 1枚目

A Long-Lasting Liquid Foundation That Won't Cause Acne

10

Clinique

Anti-Blemish Solutions Liquid Makeup

Clinique  Anti-Blemish Solutions Liquid Makeup 1枚目

A Liquid Foundation to Cover and Heal Blemishes

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Lily Lolo Mineral Foundation SPF 15

Mineral Foundation SPF 15 Image 1
Source:lilylolo.co.uk
Reference price
£15.00
Reference price
£15.00

A Perfect Full Coverage Non-Comedogenic Mineral Foundation from a British Brand

Lily Lolo have created a mineral foundation that, like bareMinerals Original Loose Powder Foundation, only has 5 simple ingredients. It covers well so will effortlessly hide blemishes and redness. It is lightweight and will not seep into your skin or clog your pores, leaving your skin looking radiant and acne-free.

This foundation is recommended for dry, sensitive, and oily skin, so it is the perfect non-comedogenic mineral foundation for all skin types. It is an affordable alternative mineral powder foundation and even greater because it is a British brand!
Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

bareMinerals Original Loose Powder Foundation

Reference price
£29.00

A Simple, Loose Powder Mineral Foundation that Will Not Block your Pores

This loose powder mineral foundation from bareMinerals is famous for only having 5 ingredients. It has won awards due to its ability to provide excellent coverage to create a luminous complexion while managing to not block pores at all. 

This foundation is great if you want a light powder foundation with good coverage that will not block pores while sticking to a well-known and highly respected makeup brand. A simple, yet effective choice equipped with a 15 SPF rating.
No.3

InikaLoose Mineral Foundation SPF 25

Loose Mineral Foundation SPF 25 Image 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£23.17
Reference price
£23.17

A Natural Mineral Foundation to Hide and Prevent Breakouts

Like all products from Inika, this mineral foundation is vegan, cruelty-free, and 100% naturally derived. Its light, powder consistency means that it will not clog your pores, while still giving good coverage to hide blemishes and redness. 

It is easy to apply with a kabuki brush, and you can add more or less coverage depending on how many layers you apply. With an SPF 25 rating, this foundation is great for everyday use.
No.4

Covergirl + Olay Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation

Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation Image 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£12.84
Reference price
£12.84

A Hydrating Non-Comedogenic Foundation for Those on a Budget

This foundation from Covergirl has no comedogenic ingredients, making it the perfect non-comedogenic foundation for those on a budget. The special formula is called a ‘3-in-1’ because it is also supposed to help with wrinkles and uneven skin tones, and hydrate the skin with hyaluronic complex and vitamin C.

Some may find the silicones in the formula irritating, and talc can be drying for some. However, all in all, this is a superb choice for those who want a non-comedogenic liquid foundation at a drugstore price.
No.5

L’Oreal Paris True Match Foundation

Reference price
£7.99

A Budget, Medium Coverage Liquid Foundation that Perfectly Matches Your Skin Tone

This liquid foundation from L’Oreal is said to match the colour and texture of your skin perfectly. It is available in an impressive 40 shades and gives you medium coverage to conceal your blemishes and redness while giving you a dewy complexion. 

Thanks to its lightweight consistency and minimalist amount of ingredients, this foundation is much less likely to block your pores than other drugstore foundations. A great buy for anyone who wants to test out a truly non-comedogenic foundation.
No.6

Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation

Oxygenating Foundation Image 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£47.40
Reference price
£47.40

A Soothing Treatment Liquid Foundation that Boosts Healing

Oxygenetix has created a non-comedogenic liquid foundation that lets the skin breathe. It is hypoallergenic, so it is superb for sensitive skin as well as skin with scars, blemishes, dry skin, injuries, and other skin conditions with high-quality ingredients and SPF 30 to help keep the skin protected.

These amazing benefits, unfortunately, come at a price considering its small quantity of 15ml per bottle. However, it is definitely worth considering for those with recovering or troubled skin.
No.7

Dermablend Cover Creme Full Coverage Foundation

Cover Creme Full Coverage Foundation Image 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£48.29
Reference price
£48.29

A Creamy Foundation to Conceal All Skin Problems

Dermablend’s Cover Creme Foundation is high coverage yet non-comedogenic, meaning it can fully conceal all spots, blemishes, scars, and other skin problems while not clogging up pores and causing breakouts. Despite its coverage, thick creamy consistency, and long-lasting effect, it has amazingly few ingredients. It is also SPF30, meaning you can relax during the day without worrying about applying sunscreen.

Its main downside is its high price, but it is definitely worth it if you are looking for a high coverage foundation with super concealing power.
No.8

IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream With SPF 50+

Reference price
£32.00

Heaps of Hydration in One Foundation

This is a full coverage colour-correcting foundation from IT Cosmetics that will not clog your pores but will instead hydrate the skin while reducing the appearance of blemishes. It is jam-packed with amazing ingredients such as Snail Secretion Filtrate (snail extract!), hyaluronic acid, and aloe leaf to give your skin the moisture that it needs. In addition, it protects your skin with SPF, making it great for daily use.

Unfortunately, this product does contain dimethicone so should be avoided if your skin is sensitive to silicones. It is also quite pricey considering the size, but arguably worth it considering the hydration you receive.
No.9

Estée LauderDouble Wear Stay-In-Place Foundation Makeup SPF10

Reference price
£34.50

A Long-Lasting Liquid Foundation That Won't Cause Acne

This popular liquid foundation by Estée Lauder has over 60 shades, so there's surely a shade to suit your skin tone, and it claims to stay in place for 24 hours! What's more, this foundation doesn't include any acne-causing ingredients, and is oil-free, meaning that its matte consistency helps to control oily skin. 


Being fragrance-free, the Double Wear foundation is also suitable for sensitive skin. However, while it doesn't contain drying ingredients, there are no ingredients that are beneficial to the skin. In addition, as a long-lasting foundation, some reviewers say that it can be too drying on the skin, but if it works for you, join the thousands of devotees to this foundation and add it to your makeup bag! 

No.10

Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Liquid Makeup

Reference price
£29.00

A Liquid Foundation to Cover and Heal Blemishes

Clinique are well known for their fragrance-free, allergy tested, and high-quality products and this Anti-Blemish liquid foundation is no different. It is great for people with oily or acne-prone skin and its lightweight formula will not cause breakouts. The added salicylic acid can even help acne to reduce in size and heal over time.

However, this foundation does contain silicones such as dimethicone which some people may find their skin reacts to. In addition, alcohol denat and silica may irritate or dry your skin, so this foundation is best for those with oily and non-sensitive skin.

There's Plenty More Foundation Where That Came From

There's Plenty More Foundation Where That Came From

While we've listed some of the best non-comedogenic foundations, there are countless more fantastic foundations available online nowadays - from cruelty-free options to those that won't irritate sensitive skin. You may want to continue the search by glancing through our other recommendations if you're not convinced. 

Summary

If you use foundation everyday as part of your makeup routine, it is super important that you pick one that suits your skin type and will not clog your pores. Doing so will improve your skin condition in the long run, and leave your skin happier and healthier.


Even if one foundation works well for someone, it might not necessarily be ideal for you, so make sure to test out different varieties and ingredients to figure out what your skin likes best.


Author: Brigid Bernard

Top 5 Non-Comedogenic Foundations

No. 1: Lily Lolo Mineral Foundation SPF 15

No. 2: bareMinerals Original Loose Powder Foundation

No. 3: InikaLoose Mineral Foundation SPF 25

No. 4: Covergirl + Olay Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation

No. 5: L’Oreal Paris True Match Foundation

View Full Ranking

When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
  1. TOP
  2. Cosmetics and skincare
  3. 10 Best Non-Comedogenic Foundations 2023 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed