Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm (Discontinued)
The Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is a cult-favorite luxury cleanser known for its transformative texture and deep-cleansing capabilities. This rich balm melts into a nourishing oil upon contact with the skin, eventually emulsifying into a milky lotion to sweep away makeup and daily impurities. Formulated with Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, it is designed to leave the skin feeling exceptionally soft, hydrated, and glowing. While it is celebrated in the anti-aging community for its spa-like aroma and ability to dissolve even the most stubborn waterproof makeup, its ingredient profile is complex. For those with acne-prone skin, the inclusion of heavy botanical oils and lipid-rich emollients requires a cautious approach. This version of the product, while legendary for its moisturizing properties, contains several ingredients that are historically linked to pore congestion. Understanding how these rich ingredients interact with your specific skin type is essential for maintaining a clear complexion while enjoying a premium double-cleansing experience.
Our Analysis
Our analysis of the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm reveals a High Comedogenic Risk level. The most concerning ingredient is Wheat Germ Oil, which carries a maximum comedogenic rating of 5/5, making it a notorious pore-clogger. The formula also contains Coconut Oil (4/5), which is high in Lauric Acid and known to solidify inside pores. While Sweet Almond Oil and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride provide excellent emollient benefits for dry skin, their presence alongside high-rated oils creates a significant risk for congestion. This combination is likely to trigger breakouts in those sensitive to heavy lipids.
Skin Type Recommendations
This cleansing balm is best suited for very dry, dehydrated, or mature skin types that can benefit from intense lipid replenishment. It is not recommended for oily, combination, or acne-prone skin. The high concentration of comedogenic oils makes it a risky choice for anyone prone to blackheads or cystic acne.
Flagged Ingredients
Extremely high comedogenicity in rabbit ear assays; historically consistent pore-clogger.
High Lauric Acid content solidifies inside the pore.
Rich in Oleic acid; nourishing for dry skin but potentially occlusive for oily skin.
Fractionated coconut oil; removed most clogging long-chain acids but can still affect some.
Fatty alcohol emollient with low-moderate comedogenicity on its own. However, when combined with Ceteareth-20, the synergistic effect can significantly increase pore-clogging potential (combined rating of 4).
Pure Vitamin E is thick and sticky; safe in small amounts as an antioxidant, but potentially clogging in pure oil form.
Want Deeper Analysis?
Run our MACR (Multi-Axis Comedogenic Risk) analysis to get a comprehensive 5-axis risk assessment. This AI-powered analysis evaluates ingredients for Plugging Risk, Barrier Damage, Fungal Acne Risk, Oxidation Risk, and real-world User Reports — giving you personalized scores for your skin type.
