Have you ever wondered why some oils work wonders for your skin while others clog pores and cause breakouts? Enter the realm of comedogenic scale for oils, a critical factor in determining the pore-clogging potential of different oils.

Whether you’re battling acne, dealing with sensitive skin, or simply seeking to optimize your skincare routine, understanding the comedogenic scale can help you to better navigate exactly what your skin needs.

Here, we’ll shed some light on the science behind the comedogenic scale for oils and equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about incorporating oils into your skincare routine.

The science behind comedogenic scale for oils: What you need to know

The comedogenic scale for oils is a ranking system that measures the likelihood of an oil to clog pores and cause acne. 

It’s important to note that the comedogenic scale isn’t absolute, and individual reactions can vary. Factors such as skin type, sensitivity, and other ingredients in the product formulation may influence the impact of oil on the skin. Patch testing new products and observing how your skin responds is a helpful way to determine the suitability of oil for your specific skin type and needs.

The comedogenic scale ranges from 0 to 5, with 0 being non-comedogenic (least likely to clog pores) and 5 being highly comedogenic (most likely to clog pores).¹ Understanding this scale can help you make more informed decisions when choosing products for your skincare routine.

Non-comedogenic oils: Score of 0-1

Oils with a rating of 0 or 1 are considered non-comedogenic, which means they have a lower tendency to block the pores on your skin. They are less likely to cause acne or comedones and are safe for most skin types. Here are some commonly used non-comedogenic oils:²

• Sunflower oil (non-refined)

• Safflower oil

• Squalane oil

• Babassu oil

• Castor oil

Moderately comedogenic oils: Score of 2

Oils with a rating of 2 have a moderate likelihood of clogging pores. While they may cause sensitive or acne-prone skin issues, others may be well-tolerated by different skin types. 

Exercise caution and consider individual skin sensitivity when incorporating these ingredients into your skincare routine. Examples of moderately comedogenic oils:³

• Almond oil

• Olive oil

• Peanut oil

• Sandalwood seed oil

• Apricot kernel oil

Moderately to highly comedogenic oils: Score of 3-4

Ingredients rated 3 or 4 are considered moderately to highly comedogenic. They are more likely to trigger acne breakouts and other issues, particularly those with acne-prone or sensitive skin. 

It’s generally recommended to avoid these oils, especially if you are prone to skin concerns. Here are some oils in the moderate to high comedogenic range:⁴

• Sesame oil

• Corn oil

• Avocado oil

• Cotton seed oil

• Cocoa butter

• Coconut butter

• Mink oil

• Soybean oil

Highly comedogenic oils/ingredients: Score of 5

Highly comedogenic ingredients, scoring 5 on the comedogenicity scale, have the highest potential to clog pores and may significantly contribute to skin concerns. These ingredients are more likely to cause acne breakouts and other skin issues. 

Check cosmetic product labels and steer clear of these specific ingredients to reduce the risk of pore blockage:⁵

• Isopropyl isostearate

• Myristyl myristate

• Oleth-3

• Laureth-4

Finding oils for skincare using the comedogenic scale

Oils can be beneficial for your skin—if you’re using the right ones. Here are a few different types of oils you might consider incorporating into your skincare routine:

Moisturizing oils

Moisturizing oils nourish and hydrate the skin. They lock in moisture and create a protective barrier on the skin, helping to prevent water loss and keeping the skin hydrated. Sunflower seed oil has been shown to enhance the skin barrier and improve hydration without inducing erythema (redness).⁶ Sweet almond oil also has emollient effects. It helps treat dry skin by preventing transepidermal water loss.⁷

Oils that boost skin elasticity 

Maintaining good skin elasticity may help minimize the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging, giving your skin a more youthful and toned look. One study showed that oral and topical use of argan oil led to a significant increase in skin elasticity in postmenopausal women.⁸

Oils that improve the appearance of skin imperfections

Certain oils may improve skin imperfections; these oils may be beneficial in reducing melanin levels, erythema, sebum production, and fine and large pores. Grapeseed oil, for example, contains a variety of bioactive components that can contribute positively to the overall health and aesthetic qualities of human skin.⁹

Anti-aging oils

Anti-aging oils have properties that can help combat the signs of aging, promoting youthful-looking skin. These oils often contain antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids that can nourish the skin, improve elasticity, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, and enhance overall skin texture. Rosehip seed oil, for example, is often used in anti-aging formulas due to its powerful antioxidants.¹⁰ Sandalwood oil is also used as an active ingredient in cosmetics for its protective and anti-aging properties, particularly in combating the effects of environmental stressors.¹¹

Soothing/calming oils

Various oils are used in skin care for their soothing properties. When applied to the skin, they can also help soothe irritations, redness, and inflammation, providing relief and comfort. One study showed that daily consumption of sweet coriander seed oil can help soothe reactive and sensitive skin.¹²

Oils with beneficial properties for skin conditions

Take a look at four oils that are commonly used to treat various skin conditions due to their beneficial properties:

Oils for acne: Tea tree oil and rosemary oil are suggested natural remedies for acne due to their potential antimicrobial properties. Given their efficacy, both oils are promising alternatives to replace antibiotics for treating acne.¹³ By targeting these bacteria and inhibiting their growth, tea tree oil and rosemary oil may help alleviate acne symptoms. 

Oils for eczema: Tamanu oil has various beneficial properties, which have led to its exploration for treating various skin conditions, including atopic dermatitis (eczema). Its anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce skin inflammation and relieve the symptoms associated with atopic dermatitis but more study is needed.¹⁴ Shea butter is another naturally occurring anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that can help soothe the dryness and itching associated with atopic dermatitis.¹⁵

Yes, you can use oils with Curology!

You can use oils alongside your Curology routine! Adding 2-3 drops of face oil or oil-based serum may be an option for additional hydration. Contact your dermatology provider to see how this might work in your routine. They can provide valuable insights and guidance based on your needs and skin conditions.

With Curology, you get personalized, high-grade care that’s rooted in science

Because some oils may prove effective for some people and not others, those with skincare concerns often struggle to find solutions that work for them specifically. Curology helps to take out the guesswork.

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Start your skin quiz

By filling out a questionnaire and taking a few photos of your skin concerns, you can connect with one of Curology’s licensed dermatology providers, who will provide you with personalized solutions. They are also there to answer any questions you have along the way and can help guide you toward healthier skin. Claim your offer today!*

P.S. We did the homework, so you don’t have to:

1. Fulton, J.E. Comedogenicity and irritancy of commonly used ingredients in skin care products. Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists. (December 1989).

2. Fulton, J.E. Comedogenicity and irritancy of commonly used ingredients in skin care products. Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists. Ibid.

3. Fulton, J.E. Comedogenicity and irritancy of commonly used ingredients in skin care products. Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists. Ibid.

4. Fulton, J.E. Comedogenicity and irritancy of commonly used ingredients in skin care products. Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists. Ibid.

5. Fulton, J.E. Comedogenicity and irritancy of commonly used ingredients in skin care products. Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists. Ibid.

6. Danby, S.G., et al. Effect of Olive and Sunflower Seed Oil on the Adult Skin Barrier: Implications for Neonatal Skin Care. Pediatric Dermatology. (February 2013).

7. Blaak, J. and Staib, P. An updated review on efficacy and benefits of sweet almond, evening primrose and jojoba oils in skin care applications. International Journal of Cosmetic Science. (February 2022).

8. Boucetta, K., et al. The Effect of Dietary and/or Cosmetic Argan Oil on Postmenopausal Skin Elasticity. Clinical Interventions in Aging. (2015, January 30).

9. Shawahna, R. Effects of a Grapeseed Oil Loaded Dermocosmetic Nanoemulgel on Biophysical Parameters of Facial Skin. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. (2022, July 12).

10. Ilyasoglu, H. Characterization of Rosehip (Rosa canina L.) Seed and Seed Oil. International Journal of Food Properties. (March 2014).

11. Francois-Newton, V., et al. Antioxidant and Anti-Aging Potential of Indian Sandalwood Oil against Environmental Stressors in Vitro and Ex Vivo. Cosmetics. (2021, June 19).

12. Kern, C., et al. Effect of the Supplementation of Virgin Coriander Seed Oil on Reducing Reactivity in Healthy Women with Sensitive Skin. Food & Nutrition Research. (2022, March 23).

13. Esmael, A., et al. Antimicrobial activity of certain natural-based plant oils against the antibiotic-resistant acne bacteria. Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences. (January 2020).

14. Pribowo, A., et al. Potential of Tamanu Oil for Atopic Dermatitis Treatment. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. (2021, December 26).

15. Jones, V.A., et al. Complementary and alternative medicine treatments for common skin diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JAAD international. (March 2021).

16. Nurzyńska-Wierdak, R., et al. Essential Oils in the Treatment of Various Types of Acne-A Review. Plants. (January 2023).

Erin Pate is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner at Curology. She earned her Masters of Science in Nursing at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, FL

*Cancel anytime. Subject to consultation. Results may vary.

Written by

Curology Team

Medically reviewed by

Erin Pate, NP-C