Ingredient decoder

Oakmoss extract: is it comedogenic? What it does in skincare

INCI name: Evernia Prunastri Extract

Acne verdict Watch

Worth watching on acne-prone skin

  • ComedogenicNo published rating
  • IrritancyNo published rating

What it does

Lichen scent extract that is a strong allergen for some.

  • Perfuming

Oakmoss extract in plain English

Oakmoss extract comes from a lichen that grows on oak trees and gives an earthy, woody note to fragrances. It is one of the stronger natural fragrance allergens, and the EU limits certain allergy-causing compounds in it. It is one of the scent components that must be named on EU labels above set levels because it can trigger allergic reactions in some people. For acne-prone skin it does not clog pores, but irritation and redness can make breakouts look and feel worse, so sensitive skin may do better without it.

Is oakmoss extract bad for acne?

Not usually, but it is worth watching. Oakmoss extract is not a proven pore-clogger, but scent ingredients like this can irritate sensitive skin, and irritated skin can make breakouts look and feel worse. Notice how your skin reacts when a product lists it near the top.

Clean routine and still breaking out? The cause may be internal. See what is driving it

Also called

  • Evernia Prunastri Extract
  • Oakmoss
  • Oak moss extract
  • Evernia prunastri (oakmoss) extract
  • Evernia prunastri lichen extract

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Frequently asked questions

Is oakmoss extract comedogenic?

Oakmoss extract has no published comedogenic rating in Fulton's 1989 table. It is not a proven pore-clogger, but it is worth watching on acne-prone skin.

What does oakmoss extract do in skincare?

In short: lichen scent extract that is a strong allergen for some. In formulas it is used for perfuming.

What else is oakmoss extract called on ingredient labels?

On ingredient lists, oakmoss extract can also appear as Evernia Prunastri Extract, Oakmoss, Oak moss extract, Evernia prunastri (oakmoss) extract or Evernia prunastri lichen extract.

Sources