Oils and Butters Comedogenic Rating List
Comedogenic ingredients are simply ingredients with compounds that get stuck in our pores (and trap dirt, bacteria, and other impurities with them).
Clogged pores are breeding grounds for acne-causing bacteria and are one of the main causes of breakouts.
Non-comedogenic ingredients are those oils that are not likely to clog your pores.
The Comedogenic Scale
The comedogenic scale ranges from 0 (won’t clog your pores) to 5 (will clog your pores a ton). If you’re looking to avoid breakouts, then I would stick with oils that score below a 2 on the comedogenic scale.
0 – Not Likely to Clog Pores
1 – Low
2 – Moderately Low
3 – Moderate
4 – Fairly High
5 – High
Oils
Here’s the complete oils comedogenic rating table in alphabetical order.
| Oil Name | Comedogenic Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Almond Oil (Prunus amygdalus dulcis) | 2 | Suitable for most skin types, mildly comedogenic. |
| Apricot Kernel Oil (Prunus armeniaca) | 2 | Good for dry, sensitive skin; moderate comedogenicity. |
| Argan Oil (Argania spinosa) | 0 | Non-comedogenic, ideal for acne-prone skin. |
| Avocado Oil (Persea gratissima) | 3 | Moderately comedogenic, nourishing for dry skin. |
| Babassu Oil (Attalea speciosa) | 1-2 | Low to moderate comedogenicity, good for oily skin. |
| Black Cumin Seed Oil (Nigella sativa) | 2 | Suitable for oily and acne-prone skin, anti-inflammatory. |
| Blackberry Seed Oil (Rubus fruticosus) | 1-2 | Low comedogenicity, rich in antioxidants. |
| Borage Oil (Borago officinalis) | 2 | Good for dry, irritated skin; contains GLA. |
| Brazil Nut Oil (Bertholletia excelsa) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, high in selenium. |
| Broccoli Seed Oil (Brassica oleracea italica) | 1 | Low comedogenicity, rich in fatty acids. |
| Camellia Oil (Camellia oleifera) | 1 | Low comedogenicity, good for moisturising. |
| Canola Oil (Brassica napus) | 0-1 | Low comedogenicity, but often highly refined. |
| Carrot Seed Oil (Daucus carota sativa) | 3-4 | Moderately high comedogenicity, rich in Vitamin A. |
| Castor Oil (Ricinus communis) | 1 | Low comedogenicity, useful for cleansing. |
| Cherry Kernel Oil (Prunus avium) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, rich in antioxidants. |
| Chia Seed Oil (Salvia hispanica) | 3 | Moderately comedogenic, high in omega-3. |
| Cloudberry Seed Oil (Rubus chamaemorus) | 1 | Low comedogenicity, rich in Vitamin C. |
| Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera) | 4 | High comedogenicity, can clog pores in acne-prone skin. |
| Corn Oil (Zea mays) | 2-3 | Moderate comedogenicity, often used in cooking. |
| Cottonseed Oil (Gossypium) | 3 | Moderately comedogenic, less common in skincare. |
| Cranberry Seed Oil (Vaccinium macrocarpon) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, high in antioxidants. |
| Cucumber Seed Oil (Cucumis sativus) | 1 | Low comedogenicity, hydrating and soothing. |
| Emu Oil (Dromaius novaehollandiae) | 1 | Low comedogenicity, deeply penetrating. |
| Evening Primrose Oil (Oenothera biennis) | 2-3 | Good for dry, aging skin; moderate comedogenicity. |
| Flaxseed Oil (Linum usitatissimum) | 4 | High comedogenicity, rich in omega-3. |
| Grapeseed Oil (Vitis vinifera) | 1 | Low comedogenicity, suitable for oily skin types. |
| Hazelnut Oil (Corylus avellana) | 1 | Low comedogenicity, good for oily skin. |
| Hemp Seed Oil (Cannabis sativa) | 0 | Non-comedogenic, ideal for all skin types. |
| Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia chinensis) | 2 | Mimics skin’s natural sebum; well-tolerated by oily skin. |
| Kalahari Melon Oil (Citrullus lanatus) | 0-1 | Low comedogenicity, hydrating. |
| Kiwi Seed Oil (Actinidia chinensis) | 1 | Low comedogenicity, high in omega-3. |
| Kukui Nut Oil (Aleurites moluccanus) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, good for dry skin. |
| Macadamia Nut Oil (Macadamia integrifolia) | 2-3 | Moderate comedogenicity, similar to sebum. |
| Maracuja Oil (Passionfruit Seed Oil) (Passiflora) | 1-2 | Low to moderate comedogenicity, soothing. |
| Meadowfoam Seed Oil (Limnanthes alba) | 1 | Low comedogenicity, rich in antioxidants. |
| Moringa Oil (Moringa oleifera) | 3-4 | Moderately high comedogenicity, nutrient-rich. |
| Neem Oil (Azadirachta indica) | 1-2 | Low to moderate comedogenicity, anti-bacterial. |
| Olive Oil (Olea europaea) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, moisturising. |
| Palm Oil (Elaeis guineensis) | 4 | High comedogenicity, often used in soap making. |
| Papaya Seed Oil (Carica papaya) | 2-3 | Moderate comedogenicity, rich in enzymes. |
| Peach Kernel Oil (Prunus persica) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, similar to almond oil. |
| Peanut Oil (Arachis hypogaea) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, less common in skincare. |
| Pecan Oil (Carya illinoinensis) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, rich in fatty acids. |
| Perilla Oil (Perilla frutescens) | 1-2 | Low to moderate comedogenicity, rich in omega-3. |
| Pomegranate Seed Oil (Punica granatum) | 1 | Low comedogenicity, anti-inflammatory. |
| Poppy Seed Oil (Papaver somniferum) | 0 | Non-comedogenic, good for most skin types. |
| Prickly Pear Seed Oil (Opuntia ficus-indica) | 1-2 | Low to moderate comedogenicity, high in Vitamin E. |
| Pumpkin Seed Oil (Cucurbita pepo) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, rich in zinc. |
| Raspberry Seed Oil (Rubus idaeus) | 1-2 | Low to moderate comedogenicity, UV-protective qualities. |
| Rice Bran Oil (Oryza sativa) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, good for mature skin. |
| Rosehip Oil (Rosa canina) | 1 | Low comedogenicity, beneficial for aging or damaged skin. |
| Safflower Oil (Carthamus tinctorius) | 0 | Non-comedogenic, suitable for dry, acne-prone skin. |
| Sandalwood Seed Oil (Santalum spicatum) | 2-3 | Moderate comedogenicity, rare and expensive. |
| Sea Buckthorn Oil (Hippophae rhamnoides) | 1 | Low comedogenicity, rich in nutrients. |
| Sesame Oil (Sesamum indicum) | 2-3 | Moderate comedogenicity, suitable for massage. |
| Shea Oil (Vitellaria paradoxa) | 0-1 | Low comedogenicity, derived from shea butter. |
| Soybean Oil (Glycine soja) | 4-5 | High comedogenicity, often used in food. |
| Sunflower Oil (Helianthus annuus) | 0 | Non-comedogenic, suitable for sensitive skin. |
| Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus amygdalus dulcis) | 2 | Suitable for most skin types, mildly comedogenic. |
| Tamanu Oil (Calophyllum inophyllum) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, used for healing. |
| Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, antibacterial properties. |
| Tomato Seed Oil (Solanum lycopersicum) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, rich in lycopene. |
| Walnut Oil (Juglans regia) | 2-3 | Moderate comedogenicity, rich in omega-3. |
| Watermelon Seed Oil (Citrullus lanatus) | 0-1 | Low comedogenicity, light and penetrating. |
| Wheat Germ Oil (Triticum vulgare) | 5 | High comedogenicity, rich in Vitamin E. |
Butters
Here’s the complete butter comedogenic table in alphabetical order.
| Butter Name | Comedogenic Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shea Butter (Butyrospermum parkii) | 0-2 | Non-comedogenic to mildly comedogenic, highly moisturising. |
| Cocoa Butter (Theobroma cacao) | 4 | High comedogenicity, not recommended for acne-prone facial skin. |
| Mango Butter (Mangifera indica) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, suitable for sensitive skin. |
| Kokum Butter (Garcinia indica) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, aids in skin repair. |
| Cupuacu Butter (Theobroma grandiflorum) | 1-2 | Low to moderate comedogenicity, very moisturising. |
| Murumuru Butter (Astrocaryum murumuru) | 1-2 | Low to moderate comedogenicity, good for sensitive skin. |
| Illipe Butter (Shorea stenoptera) | 1-2 | Low to moderate comedogenicity, excellent for dry skin. |
| Tucuma Butter (Astrocaryum vulgare) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, rich in fatty acids. |
| Ucuuba Butter (Virola sebifera) | 2-3 | Moderate comedogenicity, good for oily skin types. |
| Babassu Butter (Attalea speciosa) | 1-2 | Low to moderate comedogenicity, light and non-greasy. |
| Sal Butter (Shorea robusta) | 1 | Low comedogenicity, similar to cocoa butter. |
| Kombo Butter (Pycnanthus angolensis) | 2-3 | Moderate comedogenicity, unique in composition. |
| Aloe Butter (Blend with Aloe extract) | 0-1 | Non-comedogenic, soothing and hydrating. |
| Coffee Butter (Blend with Coffee oil) | 1-2 | Low to moderate comedogenicity, rejuvenating for the skin. |
| Mafura Butter (Trichilia emetica) | 2-3 | Moderate comedogenicity, rich in essential fatty acids. |
| Avocado Butter (Made from Persea gratissima oil) | 3 | Moderately comedogenic, highly nourishing. |
| Olive Butter (Blend with Olive oil) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, deeply moisturising. |
| Macadamia Butter (Made from Macadamia oil) | 2-3 | Moderate comedogenicity, rich in palmitoleic acid. |
| Pistachio Butter (Made from Pistacia vera oil) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, good for dry skin. |
| Almond Butter (Made from Prunus amygdalus oil) | 2 | Moderate comedogenicity, soothing and softening. |
Fatty Acids in Skincare: A Simple Guide
Fatty acids in oils and butters are key to great skin.
Omega-3 and omega-6, especially, play a huge role. Applying them directly to your skin can be more effective than eating foods rich in these acids.
- Linoleic Acid (Omega-6): Ideal for oily, acne-prone skin, this fatty acid helps to soothe and balance.
- Oleic Acid (Omega-9): Best for dry, sensitive skin, it provides hydration and reduces skin sensitivity.
- Alpha-Linolenic Acid (Omega-3): This essential fatty acid supports skin health, aiding in reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy skin barrier.
- Gamma-Linolenic Acid (Omega-6): Found in oils like borage and evening primrose, it’s known for its soothing and moisturising properties, good for dry or irritated skin.
- Lauric Acid: Common in coconut oil, it has antimicrobial properties, making it beneficial for acne-prone skin.
So, pick your skincare based on these acids to match your skin type. It’s a simple step towards healthier skin!
Selecting Oils Based on Skin Type
Oily and Acne-Prone Skin
Choose oils high in linoleic acid. They help regulate sebum production and are less likely to clog pores. Good options include grapeseed, rosehip, and hemp seed oil. These oils are light and absorb quickly, making them ideal for managing oily skin without causing breakouts.
Dry and Sensitive Skin
Oils rich in oleic acid are excellent for dry skin, offering deep hydration and soothing properties. Olive, avocado, and sweet almond oil are top choices. They provide intense moisture, helping to soften and revitalise dry skin areas.
Combination Skin
For those with combination skin, a balance of linoleic and oleic acids is beneficial. Jojoba oil, which closely mimics the skin’s natural oils, and argan oil, known for its balancing properties, are both excellent choices.
Mature Skin
Oils with antioxidants and regenerative properties, like rosehip and pomegranate seed oil, are beneficial for mature skin. They aid in reducing the appearance of fine lines and boosting skin elasticity.
A Word of Caution on Skincare Labels
Be wary of labels like “dermatologist-recommended”, “hypoallergenic”, and “fragrance-free”. These terms don’t always mean a product won’t clog pores or suit every skin type.
It’s key to read ingredient lists carefully. Understand your skin’s unique needs. These claims are just guides, not guarantees.
Always remember, skincare is very personal. What works for one person might not for another. Trust your own research and understanding of your skin.
How to Read Labels for Non-Comedogenic Products
Finding non-comedogenic products? Start by reading labels. For single oils and butters, check their comedogenic rating. It’s straightforward.
With lotions and serums, it gets tricky. These mixes can have both low and high comedogenic ingredients. Key tip: Ingredients are listed in order of concentration. Those at the top are in higher amounts.
In short, scrutinise labels carefully. Know what each ingredient does. This way, you pick products that truly match your skin’s needs. Remember, the right ingredients make all the difference in skincare.
Make Smart Skincare Choices!
Understanding the comedogenic scale is key in skincare. It guides you in choosing ingredients that suit your skin type and concerns.
Remember, everyone’s skin is unique. Your skincare should reflect that. What works for others might not work for you. So, take time to learn what your skin needs.
In short, smart skincare is about matching ingredients to your skin’s unique needs.
This way, you keep your skin healthy and happy.
Always make skincare choices that are personal to you.
