Does Centella Clog Pores? Effects, Tips, Products

In short: No. Centella asiatica is not considered comedogenic and typically does not clog pores. On the contrary, Centella’s soothing, anti-inflammatory, and barrier-strengthening effects can help reduce blemishes and support a more balanced complexion. What matters less is Centella itself and more the product’s overall formulation. If you choose lightweight, non-greasy textures, you can benefit from Centella without risking clogged pores. Find more background in our Centella guide: effects, benefits & comedogenicity.

How does Centella affect pores and blemishes?

Centella asiatica is rich in triterpenes such as madecassoside, asiaticoside, and asiatic acid. These compounds soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and support natural regeneration. For blemish-prone skin, that helps calm inflammatory processes, relax the pore environment, and fade post-inflammatory redness more quickly. Indirectly, the complexion can look smoother and pores appear finer because there’s less visible inflammation and sebum buildup. Important: You cannot permanently shrink pores, but their visibility can be reduced through less swelling, regulated sebum production, and an intact skin barrier. This is where Centella shines—often without weighing the skin down. If you’re acne-prone, explore our care for acne & clogged pores – collection.

Is Centella comedogenic?

Comedogenicity describes an ingredient’s tendency to promote blackheads. Centella extracts are generally considered non-comedogenic and well tolerated by most skin types. Many Centella formulas are purposefully lightweight and calming. As with any active, if your skin is very reactive, patch-test first. How to assess a potential reaction: How to recognize a Centella allergy.

Formulation matters: Can Centella cause clogged pores?

The question “does Centella clog pores” is mainly a question of formulation. Centella itself does not tend to clog pores. Issues are more likely when a formula contains very rich, highly occlusive components that are too heavy for your skin. Pay attention to texture and how the ingredients work together.

• Choose lightweight textures: gels, gel-creams, or fluid serums are often ideal for blemish-prone skin.
• Prefer non-comedogenic formulas: products explicitly labeled non-comedogenic minimize the risk of congestion.
• Gentle cleansing: a pH-mild cleanser preserves the barrier and helps prevent rebound oiliness from over-cleansing.
• Use occlusive layers judiciously: apply very heavy butters and waxes sparingly, especially on oily or combination skin.
• Patch test: try new products locally first to rule out individual reactions.

Looking for a lightweight, pore-friendly toner option? Choose alcohol-free, gel-like textures with soothing ingredients and avoid very heavy oils if your skin clogs easily.

Optimal concentration and smart combinations

How much Centella makes sense depends on the form. Extracts are often used at low to medium levels, while isolated fractions like madecassoside can be effective at low concentrations. What’s decisive is the overall formulation and consistency. For a pore-friendly routine setup, Centella products combine well with others. How often to use a Centella ampoule: How often should I use the Centella ampoule?.

• With niacinamide: supports sebum regulation, strengthens the barrier, and refines texture.
• With BHA (salicylic acid): helps clear clogged pores; Centella can soothe at the same time.
• With retinol: Centella can buffer potential irritation and support regeneration.
• With hyaluronic acid: provides hydration without heaviness.

Which skin types is Centella suitable for?

Centella suits almost all skin types—especially sensitive, redness-prone, acne-prone, or combination skin. Oily skin benefits from lightweight gel formulas; dry and sensitive skin from gently hydrating Centella serums or masks. If you experience rosacea-like redness or reactivity, Centella may help rebalance skin comfort. A compact overview: Madagascar Centella: benefits for skin.

Centella product recommendations at NoticeMe

• SKIN1004 - Madagascar Centella Poremizing Clarifying Mask: clarifying mask with Centella extract and Himalayan salt, developed for pore cleansing and sebum control.
• SKIN1004 - Madagascar Centella Ampoule Foam: mild, pH-friendly cleanser with Centella for soothing and balance.
• Benton - Goodbye Redness Centella Mask: calming sheet mask boost for sensitive, redness-prone skin.
• Benton - Goodbye Redness Centella Gel: lightweight gel with a high Centella content, ideal for sensitive, combination to oily skin.

Find more pore-friendly formulas here: SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella – collection.

FAQ

Is Centella good for pores?

Yes. Centella calms, eases inflammation, and supports a strong barrier. As a result, pores often look finer and breakouts subside faster.

What does Centella do for skin?

Centella reduces redness, promotes regeneration, and strengthens the skin barrier. It provides gentle care without heaviness and suits sensitive and blemish-prone skin.

Can Centella cause clogged pores?

Unlikely. Centella itself is considered non-comedogenic. However, pay attention to the overall formulation and prefer lightweight, non-comedogenic textures.

What clogs facial pores?

Common factors include very heavy, occlusive products, incomplete cleansing, excess sebum, sweat, UV damage, and mechanical irritation. A tailored routine with mild, lightweight textures helps prevent congestion.