There’s something deeply satisfying about making the switch to natural products. Swapping out harsh chemicals for clean ingredients just feels better—like you're treating your body with the respect it deserves.
But what if your skin isn’t on the same page?
If you’ve moved to clean skincare—using coconut oil, beef tallow, or shea butter—only to find yourself breaking out more… you’re not alone. In fact, it’s one of the most common complaints I hear from people trying to support their skin the natural way.
In this article, we’ll explore why many “clean” beauty products still cause breakouts and what you can use instead to get clear, hydrated skin without compromising your health values.
When “Clean” Ingredients Backfire
It’s easy to assume that if something is natural, it must be safe for skin. But in reality, many popular natural ingredients are highly pore-clogging—meaning they clog pores and can trigger breakouts, especially in acne-prone or sensitive skin.
Here are a few common examples:
● Beef tallow is often promoted as a nutrient-rich, ancestral skincare option. While it may work for some, it mimics human sebum so closely that it can easily overwhelm the skin’s oil balance and cause blockages.
● Coconut oil, despite its antimicrobial properties, is one of the most pore-clogging oils out there. It forms a dense barrier on the skin that can trap dead skin cells, bacteria, and sweat.
● Shea butter and beeswax are rich and emollient—but tend to seal the skin too tightly, leading to congestion and dullness over time.
So while these ingredients sound nourishing in theory, they often create the perfect storm for blackheads, breakouts, and persistent skin congestion.
What is The Role of Moisturizers in Skin Health (and Acne)?
Proper hydration is essential—especially for acne-prone skin. When your skin is dehydrated, it becomes more inflamed, more reactive, and more prone to breakouts. But hydration doesn’t always come in the form of thick creams or heavy oils.
Unfortunately, many clean moisturizers use ingredients like:
● Coconut, marula, flaxseed, or wheat germ oils
● Botanical waxes that seal the skin too tightly
● Isopropyl myristate or lanolin, which feel smooth but clog pores
The result? Skin that feels greasy but tight—and breakouts that seem to appear out of nowhere.
Hydration vs. Oil: A Common Misconception
One of the most important distinctions in skincare is understanding that hydration and oiliness are not the same thing.
● Hydration refers to the water content of the skin.
● Oil refers to the skin’s lipid (fat) content.
It’s entirely possible to have oily skin that is still dehydrated, especially if harsh ingredients, over-exfoliation, or irritating formulas have compromised your skin barrier.
A truly supportive moisturizer should:
● Attract and retain water (using ingredients like hyaluronic acid)
● Strengthen the lipid barrier with non-clogging oils like squalane
● Calm inflammation and support skin healing
So What Should You Use Instead?
For years, I’ve been on the lookout for skincare that checks all the boxes: clean, functional, acne-safe, and backed by science.
That’s why I want to introduce you to CLEARSTEM—a line of non-toxic, bioavailable skincare products formulated specifically for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
Founded by a clinical nutritionist and an acne expert, CLEARSTEM is the first brand I’ve come across that truly bridges the gap between clean beauty and functional dermatology. Their products are:
● 100% free of pore-clogging ingredients
● Hormone-friendly and committed to clean ingredients
● Designed to support the skin holistically—from barrier health to inflammation reduction
If you’ve struggled to find a clean moisturizer that doesn’t break you out, their HYDRAGLOW Stem Cell Moisturizer may be the missing link.
Why Do I Recommend HYDRAGLOW by CLEARSTEM?
HYDRAGLOW is a lightweight yet deeply hydrating moisturizer that supports your skin barrier while keeping pores clear. It’s designed for people who want real results—without the breakouts.
Key ingredients include:
● Bakuchiol – a plant-based retinol alternative that brightens and firms without irritation
● Hyaluronic acid – a powerful humectant that draws water into the skin’s deeper layers
● Squalane – a non-comedogenic oil that supports the skin’s lipid barrier
● Aloe + plant stem cells – calm inflammation and accelerate skin recovery
Unlike thick balms or tallow-based formulas, HYDRAGLOW delivers water-based hydration without sealing off your skin or clogging pores.
Give Your Skin Clarity and Care
Clean beauty is a powerful movement and one I support. But when it comes to skincare, “natural” doesn’t always mean “acne-safe.”
If you’re looking for products that are truly aligned with your health goals, and won’t compromise your skin in the process, I highly recommend checking out CLEARSTEM.
Use code DRAXE to get 15% off HYDRAGLOW at checkout.
Try it risk-free with their 30-day money-back guarantee.
Your skin deserves both clarity and care. And now, you don’t have to choose between the two.
