Comedogenic or Non-Comedogenic? Is That Oil Good to Use for Acne?
There are many oils to choose from when it comes to getting clear skin but it is very important to know which ones are best. Choosing these oils carefully really matters especially if you suffer from comedonal acne, a form of acne caused by a build-up of facial products in the pores.
I’m sure you’ve heard of non-comedogenic make-up, moisturizers, and other facial care products that claim non-pore-clogging superpowers, but are they really as clean as they say? I have a feeling that there might just be a fib or three hiding in the ingredients.
Since we’re all natural here, I figured that I would start by listing common (and some not so common) oils used and recommended by many for the oil cleansing method, moisturizing, and massage. You might be surprised by some of these comedogenic ratings! And before I forget, I have a Complete List of Comedogenic Oils HERE! It contains over 80 carrier oil profiles so be sure to check it out!
If you’re wondering about the comedogenic rating of the ingredients in the skincare you already use, then I recommend checking out this post.
Comedogenic Ratings
Rating of 0– Won’t clog pores at all
Rating of 1– Low
Rating of 2– Moderately low
Rating of 3– Moderate
Rating of 4– Fairly high
Rating of 5– High
Oils for Acne with a Comedogenic Rating of “0”
Alright, these are the oils you’re going to want to look for, a rating of ZERO. You should be able to find at least one of these in your area. These oils are the best options for those of us with skin that tends to break out easily because of the products we put on it.
These oils also contain a high amount of linoleic acid which helps keep your sebum levels balanced and are particularly good for oilier skin types. I’m a fan of argan and hemp seed oil since they soak in seamlessly and never break me out.
For very acne prone skin, hemp oil can be used to good effect, especially if you can find an ozonated hemp oil. The smell isn’t my favorite, but it’s one of the best most healing oils I’ve used!
I consider these to be the BEST oils to use for acne prone skin no matter what skin type you have.
• Argan oil
• Hemp seed oil
(this oil is my HOLY GRAIL oil!)
• Safflower oil
(high linoleic acid only)
• Shea butter
(how weird is that??)
• Sunflower oil
Oils for Acne with a Comedogenic Rating of “1”
These oils will have a low chance of clogging pores, so if you can’t find a high-quality oil from the zero rating list, go for one of these. I especially like rosehip seed oil.
These oils work well for normal to oilier skin types.
• Calendula oil
• Castor oil
(needs to be diluted in another oil. very drying)
• Emu oil
• Grape seed oil
• Hazelnut oil
• Neem oil
• Pomegranate oil
• Rosehip oil
• Sea buckthorn oil
Oils for Acne with a Comedogenic Rating of “2”
These oils are still pretty low on the comedogenic spectrum and should still be tolerated by those of us with normal-dry skin. Two of my favorites on this list is jojoba oil for blackheads and tamanu oil for acne scars.
These work well for oilier skin types as well.
• Almond oil
• Apricot kernel oil
• Baobab Seed Oil
• Borage oil
• Jojoba oil
• Olive oil
• Pumpkin seed oil
• Peach kernel oil
• Peanut oil
• Tamanu oil
Oils for Acne with a Comedogenic Rating of “3”
These oils are going to start clogging pores for some people, especially those who have oily, acne-prone skin.
Drier skin types may tolerate these.
• Avocado oil
• Cottonseed oil
• Evening primrose oil
• Mink oil
• Sesame oil
Oils for Acne with a Comedogenic Rating of “4”
These oils will more often than not, cause breakouts for most people. I would avoid these if you have acne prone skin.
Only a few people can tolerate these, mostly those with dryer skin.
• Cocoa butter
• Coconut Oil
(though it seems this oil works for many people just fine)
• Coconut butter
• Linseed oil
(aka flaxseed oil)
Oils for Acne with a Comedogenic Rating of “5”
This oil is almost a guaranteed trip to the dermatologist. Not recommended. Rarely tolerated. I linked to it below for reference.
So there you have it!
Be sure to choose your oils carefully (cold pressed, unrefined, and organic is best) if you have picky skin like I do. Also, some of the above-mentioned oils require refrigeration after opening (like hemp oil), so be sure to read the label or they may go rancid.
Good luck!
What have been your favorite oils to use for acne? Please share in the comments!
You may also enjoy reading:
The Oil Cleansing Method
What are the BEST oils for your skin type?
Hemp seed oil- The new holy grail acne treatment?
What are the best essential oils for your skin type?
6 skincare tips that cleared my acne naturally
Thyme Serum for Acne Free Skin
Essential Oils for Hormonal Acne
