Is corn starch good for oily skin?

Yes, corn starch is particularly beneficial for oily and combination skin types due to its excellent oil-absorbing properties, which help to mattify the skin and reduce shine.

Can corn starch clog pores?

While generally non-comedogenic, if used in excessive amounts or not thoroughly cleansed from the skin, corn starch could potentially contribute to clogged pores, especially for those prone to acne.

Home › Ingredients › Zea Mays Starch

Zea Mays Starch

Zea Mays Starch, commonly known as corn starch, is a fine, white powder derived from corn kernels. In cosmetics, it is primarily used as an absorbent to reduce shine and oiliness, and as a texturizer to improve product feel. It can also act as a thickening agent.

AbsorbentVegan

BenefitMinimal 1 / 4

Oil control i2.5 / 4

Whether it can reduce excess sebum, shine, or greasiness — absorbents, sebum-regulating ingredients, and some acne actives.

RiskLow 0.5 / 4

Acne aggravation i0.5 / 4

Whether it may worsen breakouts — clogging pores, feeling heavy on acne-prone skin, or triggering comedones in some users.

Rated by SpottyLabs' ingredient methodology, independent of brands.

What it helps with

absorbs excess oil
reduces shine
improves product texture

Things to watch

can feel drying if overused
may clog pores if not cleansed properly

See how this matches your skin

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Products with Zea Mays Starch

SKIN1004

Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule

4.7/ 516/9/1

CeraVe

Feuchtigkeitsspendende Gesichtscreme mit LSF 30

4.7/ 514/18/4

La Roche-Posay

Effaclar H ISO-BIOME Soothing Repairing Anti-Marks Moisturizer

4.5/ 59/14/2

Neutrogena

Clear & Defend+ Gel Moisturiser

4.4/ 57/9/2

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Frequently asked questions

Is corn starch good for oily skin?: Yes, corn starch is particularly beneficial for oily and combination skin types due to its excellent oil-absorbing properties, which help to mattify the skin and reduce shine.
Can corn starch clog pores?: While generally non-comedogenic, if used in excessive amounts or not thoroughly cleansed from the skin, corn starch could potentially contribute to clogged pores, especially for those prone to acne.