So Many Concealers Clog Pores and Cause Acne—These 11 Will Keep Your Skin Clear

Even though I’m a beauty editor, I didn’t start using concealer until about a year ago. (Shocking, I know.) Honestly, I just never liked most formulas because I have sensitive, acne-prone skin that doesn’t usually respond well to heavy makeup. Concealer, by nature, is a tad heavier than foundation, but I’m happy to report I’ve finally found a few formulas that work well for me. The most important thing to look for in a concealer for acne-prone skin is if the formula is noncomedogenic. I can’t speak for everyone, but I also generally try to avoid formulas with oils known to clog pores like coconut—it just doesn’t sit well with my skin.

I also know, however, that everyone has different goals when using concealer. Some like to use it to cover blemishes while others like to brighten up dark circles. This can be tricky when you have sensitive, acne-prone skin because you don’t want to cause breakouts anywhere, but don’t worry—you’re in luck. I’ve found the best noncomedogenic concealers in every category—from the best drugstore option to the best shade range. Keep scrolling. There’s something for everyone.

I might be a little biased, but this concealer is absolutely worth the hype. It’s one of the best noncomedogenic formulas that actually covers blemishes and doesn’t cause new ones. Don’t worry—I’m not just saying that. I actually have first-hand experience with it. I use this as part of my daily makeup routine and it does mattify quite quickly, but the formula is so creamy and covers blemishes or dark circles so well.

This buildable, noncomedogenic formula is infused with peptides, antioxidants, and vitamin E, to brighten your complexion and give you a boost of radiance. It’s also totally buildable and conceals acne and dark spots really well without clogging pores or leaving an oily finish. At just $8, this is the best drugstore pick.

I love Armani’s Luminous Silk Foundation. It’s one of the best foundations for acne-prone skin that I’ve ever used and the concealer is no different. The formula is designed not to clog pores and is great for drier, acne-prone skin types as it provides long-lasting hydration. 

Fenty Beauty totally changed the game with its impressive 50-shade range. This full-coverage concealer offers that range along with extra hydration, a matte finish, and creaseproof wear—all while being noncomedogenic and safe for acne-prone skin.

I don’t know about you, but I’ve definitely broken out around my eye area, too due to pore-clogging makeup. This Dior concealer offers a solution

If your skin is oily and acne-prone, give E.l.f.’s classic formula a try. It’s super budget-friendly, offers 16 hours of wear time, full coverage, and a noncomedogenic matte finish. It moisturizes so there’s no creasing but also helps control shine.

I used to have a bone to pick with most concealers because they felt too heavy and cakey, but this Rare Beauty formula is so lightweight it feels like air on the skin. It definitely needs to be built up a bit to be full coverage, but it does offer a lot of hydration and adds extra radiance to the skin.

Glossier’s Stretch Concealer leaves a dewy, glowy finish and blends so seamlessly that it looks and feels like a second skin. Elastic microwaxes in the formula move with your skin instead of caking on top of it, and as a bonus, it’s completely noncomedogenic so it’s a great option for those who are acne-prone.

Trust me—I know how hard it is to find makeup that works for sensitive, breakout-prone skin. Almay’s formula is designed to be hypoallergenic so it minimizes the chance for a reaction. It also contains salicylic acid to help fight breakouts, prebiotics to promote better skin health, and aloe to keep skin soothed and hydrated throughout the day.

I know waterproof concealer isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but if you do use and love it, try Make Up For Ever’s matte-finish formula. It’s highly pigmented and has waterproof technology to ensure oil control and long-wear coverage. Best of all, the formula is also oil-free and won’t clog pores. 

This vegan option from milk is noncomedogenic and contains plant-based ingredients like marshmallow-root extract, blue lotus, and chamomile to calm and hydrate the skin.

Up Next: I Have Acne-Prone Skin—Meet the Game-Changing Foundation I’m Never Taking Off