Beauty Elixir

Synthetic ester

Is Isopropyl Isostearate comedogenic?

Comedogenic rating 5/5

Yes, it is pore-clogging.

A heavy binding ester used in makeup and emollient creams that persistently clogs follicles.

Comedogenic
5 / 5
Irritancy
0 / 5
Fungal acne
Trigger
Type
Synthetic ester
INCI name
Isopropyl Isostearate
Also listed as
Isostearic Acid Isopropyl Ester

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
Squalane0/5Safe
Dimethicone1/5Safe

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Frequently asked questions

Is Isopropyl Isostearate comedogenic?

Yes, it is pore-clogging. Isopropyl Isostearate has a comedogenic rating of 5 out of 5. A heavy binding ester used in makeup and emollient creams that persistently clogs follicles.

Is Isopropyl Isostearate safe for fungal acne?

No. Isopropyl Isostearate can feed Malassezia yeast, so people with fungal acne usually avoid it.

Does Isopropyl Isostearate 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 Isopropyl Isostearate?

On labels it can also appear as Isostearic Acid Isopropyl Ester.

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