15 Secret Ingredients in Your ‘Clean’ Skincare That’s Causing Adult Acne

In the world of skincare, the term “clean” is often associated with natural, gentle, and safe products. However, what many don’t realize is that some ingredients in “clean” skincare products could be causing or worsening adult acne. Even if you’re avoiding synthetic chemicals and opting for products that claim to be free from harmful additives, you might still be unknowingly triggering breakouts. Here are 15 secret ingredients in your “clean” skincare that could be causing adult acne, and what you should look out for instead.

1. Coconut Oil

According to the Cleveland Clinic, even natural ingredients like coconut oil can cause skin issues if not suitable for your skin type. Coconut oil is often touted as a miracle ingredient in clean skincare, praised for its moisturizing and antibacterial properties. However, for many people, it can be comedogenic, meaning it clogs pores and leads to breakouts. Its heavy, greasy nature can be too rich for acne-prone skin, trapping dirt and bacteria in the pores. If you’re using coconut oil-based products, try switching to lighter oils like jojoba or argan oil, which are less likely to clog pores.

While coconut oil works wonders for hydration in some, its high-fat content can exacerbate acne in others. If you have oily or combination skin, it’s best to avoid products that list coconut oil as a key ingredient. Opt for non-comedogenic alternatives to keep your skin clear and moisturized.

2. Fragrances (Natural or Synthetic)

Fragrance is a common ingredient in “clean” skincare products, often marketed as a natural way to enhance the scent of the product. According to Tangie Co, synthetic fragrances can lead to hormonal disruption, respiratory issues, and skin irritation. However, both natural and synthetic fragrances can irritate the skin and trigger acne. Fragrance compounds can cause allergic reactions, increase inflammation, and disrupt the skin’s barrier function, all of which can contribute to breakouts.

Even if a product is labeled “natural,” the term “fragrance” often refers to a complex mixture of chemicals that may not be listed individually. If you’re prone to acne, it’s best to choose fragrance-free skincare products or those with very minimal, non-irritating scents like essential oils in low concentrations.

3. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is often promoted for its soothing and hydrating properties, making it a common ingredient in clean skincare. While it works well for calming irritated skin, aloe vera can also cause breakouts in some individuals. For people with sensitive skin, aloe vera may be too harsh and can lead to clogged pores and acne flare-ups. According to Medical News Today, aloe vera is generally safe but can cause mild skin reactions, such as itching or burning, in some people.

Instead of aloe vera, look for soothing ingredients like chamomile or calendula, which are gentler and less likely to cause breakouts. These alternatives provide similar calming effects without the risk of irritation or acne. It’s always a good idea to perform a patch test before using new skincare products.

4. Alcohol (Ethanol, Isopropyl Alcohol)

Many “clean” skincare products use alcohol as a preservative or to help the product dry quickly. While it can give your skin an immediate matte effect, alcohol can strip the skin of its natural oils, causing dryness and irritation. When the skin is dehydrated, it can trigger an overproduction of sebum, leading to clogged pores and acne.

Instead of alcohol-based products, opt for alcohol-free toners and serums that hydrate and balance the skin without causing dryness. Look for hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, which help lock in moisture without irritating. According to Asian Beauty X, alcohol can increase oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to premature aging and skin issues.

5. Lanolin

Lanolin, derived from sheep’s wool, is often found in moisturizers and lip balms in “clean” skincare. While it’s an excellent moisturizer, it’s also highly comedogenic, meaning it can clog pores and trigger breakouts, especially for those with sensitive or oily skin. Lanolin’s greasy texture can leave skin feeling suffocated, preventing it from breathing properly.

If you’re struggling with acne, look for alternatives like shea butter or cocoa butter, which are less likely to clog pores and still offer deep moisturization. These natural but non-comedogenic alternatives can provide similar benefits without the risk of breakouts.

6. Beeswax

Beeswax is often included in “clean” skincare products for its ability to provide a thick, protective layer over the skin. However, it can also clog pores, leading to acne, especially for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin. While it’s a natural ingredient, beeswax’s occlusive nature can trap oils, dirt, and bacteria inside the pores.

To avoid breakouts, look for skincare products that use lighter alternatives like candelilla wax or carnauba wax. These options provide a similar protective layer without the heavy, pore-clogging effects of beeswax.

7. Vitamin E (Tocopherol)

Vitamin E is often praised for its antioxidant properties and its ability to nourish and heal the skin. However, in some cases, it can trigger acne, particularly when used in high concentrations. Vitamin E can be comedogenic and, when applied topically in excess, may cause the skin to break out by clogging pores.

If you’re prone to acne, try opting for products with a lower concentration of vitamin E or choose alternatives like niacinamide or vitamin C. These ingredients offer similar skin benefits without the risk of clogging pores or triggering breakouts.

8. Soy-Based Ingredients

Many clean skincare products use soy-based ingredients like soy protein or soy lecithin for their moisturizing and anti-aging properties. However, soy can act as an estrogenic substance, which can disrupt hormonal balance and lead to hormonal acne. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to breakouts, soy may exacerbate acne by increasing sebum production.

If you suspect soy might be contributing to your acne, look for skincare products that are soy-free or use plant-based ingredients that are less likely to affect your hormones. Ingredients like aloe vera (in moderation), green tea, and turmeric can offer similar benefits without the hormonal disruptions.

9. Coconut Water

Coconut water is often added to “clean” skincare for its hydrating and antioxidant properties. However, for those with acne-prone skin, coconut water can sometimes trigger breakouts. Its high potassium and sugar content can disrupt the skin’s balance, leading to clogged pores and irritation.

If you want to hydrate your skin without the risk of breakouts, try products that contain hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, which won’t clog pores. These alternatives can provide hydration without the risk of irritation or acne flare-ups.

10. Tapioca Starch

Tapioca starch is often used as a natural thickening agent in many “clean” skincare products. While it can be an effective binder in formulas, tapioca starch can also lead to clogged pores and acne. As it sits on the skin, it can trap oil and bacteria, creating the perfect environment for breakouts to occur.

If you’re using skincare products that contain tapioca starch and notice increased breakouts, try switching to lighter formulations that use natural binders like xanthan gum or guar gum. These alternatives are less likely to clog pores while still providing the desired texture and consistency.

11. Squalane

Squalane, a popular ingredient in many “clean” skincare products, is praised for its hydrating and anti-aging properties. However, some people with acne-prone or oily skin may find that squalane can be too heavy and clog their pores. Squalane is a heavier oil that may not be suitable for everyone, leading to an increase in breakouts for those with sensitive skin.

If you have acne-prone skin, consider using lighter, non-comedogenic oils like jojoba oil, which mimics the skin’s natural oils and is less likely to clog pores. Opting for gel-based moisturizers that are oil-free can also be a good alternative.

12. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

Although sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is often associated with harsh, synthetic skincare products, it can sometimes appear in “clean” formulations as well. SLS is a surfactant that helps products foam, but it can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. This imbalance can cause the skin to overproduce oil, which may result in clogged pores and acne.

Look for sulfate-free alternatives like sodium coco-sulfate or gentle, plant-based surfactants that cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural oils. These alternatives can help maintain a healthy moisture balance while keeping your skin clear.

13. Shea Butter

Shea butter is a popular moisturizing ingredient in “clean” skincare, especially for its ability to nourish dry skin. However, for those with acne-prone or oily skin, shea butter can be too rich and clog pores. Its heavy texture can block pores, leading to an increase in blackheads and whiteheads.

If you love the moisturizing benefits of shea butter but want to avoid acne, look for lighter alternatives like argan oil or aloe vera gel. These ingredients offer hydration without the risk of clogging pores or triggering breakouts.

14. Green Tea Extract

Green tea extract is often praised for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular choice in “clean” skincare. However, green tea extract can sometimes cause irritation and acne in sensitive individuals. In some cases, it may disrupt the skin’s natural balance, leading to breakouts.

If you have acne-prone skin and are noticing flare-ups after using green tea-infused products, try opting for gentler anti-inflammatory ingredients like chamomile or calendula. These alternatives offer similar calming effects without the potential for irritation.

15. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is often marketed as a natural astringent that tightens pores and reduces inflammation. While it can be effective for some, witch hazel can also be irritating for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Its high alcohol content can dry out the skin, triggering an overproduction of oil and leading to clogged pores and acne.

If you’re using witch hazel-based products, consider switching to gentler toners that hydrate the skin instead of drying it out. Aloe vera-based toners or hydrating mists with rose water are great alternatives to keep your skin clear and balanced.