Beauty Elixir

Seaweed thickener

Is Carrageenan comedogenic?

Comedogenic rating 5/5

Yes, it is pore-clogging.

An algae-derived thickener. On the Fulton scale it scores as highly comedogenic, though it is usually present in small amounts.

Comedogenic
5 / 5
Irritancy
2 / 5
Fungal acne
Safe
Type
Seaweed thickener
INCI name
Chondrus Crispus Extract
Also listed as
Carrageenan, Irish Moss, Red Algae Extract

Who should avoid it?

Avoid in leave-on face products if you have oily, combination or acne-prone skin. It is usually fine on the body, in rinse-off products, or on very dry skin that does not break out.

Non-comedogenic swaps

Swap toRatingFungal acne
Glycerin0/5Safe
Sodium Hyaluronate0/5Safe

Got a product with Chondrus Crispus Extract? Check the whole formula.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Carrageenan comedogenic?

Yes, it is pore-clogging. Carrageenan (INCI: Chondrus Crispus Extract) has a comedogenic rating of 5 out of 5. An algae-derived thickener. On the Fulton scale it scores as highly comedogenic, though it is usually present in small amounts.

Is Carrageenan safe for fungal acne?

Yes. Chondrus Crispus Extract is not a known Malassezia (fungal acne) trigger.

Does Carrageenan cause acne?

It can. Ingredients rated 3–5 are frequently linked to clogged pores and breakouts in acne-prone people, especially in leave-on products.

What are other names for Chondrus Crispus Extract?

On labels it can also appear as Carrageenan, Irish Moss, Red Algae Extract or Chondrus Crispus.

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