Acne-Prone Skin Types Should Avoid These Face Oils
When it comes to using face oils, it's important to remember that not all face oils are created equal.
Surprisingly, there are many face oils out there that work on all skin types, even those with oily and acne-prone skin. But on the flip side, there are also face oils that oily and acne-prone skin types should steer clear of—but, why?
It all comes down to whether or not an oil is comedogenic. Comedogenicity relates to whether or not an ingredient will clog your pores. Face oils that are low on the comedogenicity scale will not clog your pores and therefore not cause acne, but there are face oils (along with many other ingredients) that do clog pores and therefore can promote or worsen acne. Here are the types of face oils that you should avoid if you're susceptible to breakouts.
Coconut Oil
The coconut oil craze has slowly started to slow down, mainly because coconut oil is very high on the comedogenicity scale. Even if used as a makeup remover or to shave your legs, it can clog your pores, cause ingrown hairs and a bevy of other not-so-fun side effects if you have skin that clogs easily.
Cocoa Butter
This wonderfully hydrating ingredient, sadly, has very high stearic and oleic acid content which makes it a comedogenic oil for most skin types. Although it does work well in body products, beware of this ingredient if you are prone to body breakouts, like back acne.
Flaxseed Oil
You probably scoop flaxseed into your smoothies because it's one of nature's richest natural sources of fatty acids, like omega 3s, lignans, vitamins, and minerals. However, most skin types will not tolerate this oil, especially acne-prone skin. Be careful because flaxseed oil is used as a carrier ingredient in many face oils and can cause breakouts if it's too high on the ingredient list.
Palm Kernel Oil
Palm kernel oil has a feel and texture similar to coconut oil and makes the skin naturally soft, working wonders on those with super dry skin. Sadly, like coconut oil, it's one you should steer clear from if you are prone to pimples.
Wheat Germ Oil
Wheat germ oil has a comedogenicity rating of five, which is the highest you can get. Using wheat germ oil is basically a guaranteed breakout no matter your skin type. However, this ingredient is good for treating scars, thanks to its super high vitamin E content. Just be mindful of its pimple producing properties if you decide to use it.
On the flip side—HERE's an ingredient that's a game-changer for acne.