Adding carrier oils to your skincare routine can be beneficial for a number of different reasons. It’s overwhelming to decide which oil to go with based on your skin type and skincare goals.
In this post, we’re providing you with a comprehensive list of skin oils with their comedogenic rating. This is a great guide to help you find an oil that will work well with your individual skin!
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Comedogenic Rating
The comedogenic scale is a general rating given to skincare ingredients to determine how likely it will be to clog your pores/cause acne.
An oil with a rating of 0 will be highly-surely unlikely to cause or worsen acne. 0 rating ingredients are ideal for those with acne-prone skin but may not always be a great option for those with extremely dry skin.
An oil with a rating of 1 means there is a very small chance it can cause acne.
A rating of 2 has a moderate chance of worsening acne. Those with acne-prone skin should usually stick to oils with ratings 0-1.
A comedogenic rating of 3 is going to be something that causes a lot of people to breakout, but some skin types can handle it!
4 on the comedogenic scale suggests that most people who use that oil with suffer from breakouts. There are some people, however, who simply don’t react to it.
And last but not least, there are some oils with a comedogenic rating of 5. There are not many people who can tolerate these oils without breaking out.
Many of these oils mentioned here are rare, luxurious, and/or just fun to use. You can always use them in smaller quantities when mixing your own blends. You definitely don’t need to slather your whole face in black raspberry seed oil every day. Just a few drops will suffice. Many of these oils, however, are good to incorporate into your routine as an oil cleanser, which I would highly recommend you try!
Just remember that every person is unique and that this list with ratings is simply a general rule of thumb.
1. Abyssinian- Comedogenic Rating: 0
| Best For: Most Skin Types | High in Erucic Acid and Moderate in Oleic Acid |
Abyssinian oil is extracted from the seeds of a small white flower, called Brassica Abyssinica, native to Ethiopia.
Abyssinian oil has an unusual molecular composition that cannot be found anywhere else in nature. It contains a very high percentage of unsaturated C22 omega-9 fatty acids and an abundance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 acids, as well as Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, and E. Within this oil, the nutrients are highly resistant to oxidation, so they keep their maximum nutrient value for a long period of time.
Abyssinian is a very lightweight oil, but it still delivers moisture and hydration to the skin.
2. Argan Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 0
| Best For: Most Skin Types | High in Oleic Acid, Linoleic Acid |
Argan Oil comes from the kernels that grow on Argan trees. This plant is native to Morocco.
This oil is comprised of about 95% fatty acids, making it an extremely hydrating oil. Besides the nourishing fatty acids, Argan Oil is also rich in antioxidants such as Vitamin E and polyphenols. Argan is a very popular oil in the beauty world and works great for basically all skin types.
3. Hemp Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 0
| Best For: Oily/Acne Prone | High in Linoleic Acid, Moderate in Linolenic Acid |
Hemp oil is extracted from the seeds of hemp plants. Hemp oil typically does not contain THC. It is a clear oil with a green tint, and it is actually highly beneficial for the skin.
Hemp oil is great for acne-prone skin because of its low comedogenic rating, and it also has the ability to help balance your natural oil production. This oil also contains an omega-6 fatty acid called gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is a powerful anti-inflammatory that also encourages skin growth and new cell generation. This can really help to calm inflammation/irritation, including acne and some conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
4. Mineral Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 0
Mineral oil is a colorless and odorless oil that comes from petroleum. When it is used in cosmetics and skincare, it’s highly refined and purified. Due to the purification process, it does not contain the contaminants that unrefined petroleum has been known for.
Mineral oil is controversial in the skincare world because of how it is made and where it comes from. The positive of mineral oil is that it is a cheap occlusive moisturizer, which means it will sit on top of the skin and not clog pores. The downsides to mineral oil are that it is not a “clean” oil and even though it has a rating of 0, studies have shown it is still common to exacerbate acne. This oil is a good example that just because it has a low rating on the scale, it doesn’t make it a great option for those with acne-prone skin.
5. Safflower Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 0
| Best For: Most Skin Types | High in Linoleic Acid |
This oil is extracted from the safflower seeds and is very high in vitamin E, which offers many health benefits. Safflower oil also contains omega-6 fatty acids. The seed oil is low in saturated fat, making it a healthy choice for cooking as well as skin. This oil is great at protecting from free radicals, UV rays, and other environmental harm due to the high content of vitamin E.
6. Camelia Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1
| Best For: Most Skin Types | High in Oleic Acid |
Camellia seed oil comes from the camellia flower, which is a plant found naturally across Eastern Asia. This oil is also commonly known as Tea Seed Oil. Camellia seed oil contains a high amount of oleic acids, omega 3 fatty acid, omega 6 fatty acid, as well as a long list of vitamins (A, B, C, D, E). It also has a molecular weight that is very similar to the sebum that your skin naturally produces.
7. Castor Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1
| Best For: Oily/Acne Prone | High in Ricinoleic Acid |
Castor oil is extracted from the beans of the castor plants. This oil is high in ricinoleic acid, which penetrates the skin easily to soothe and moisturize. This oil is also a humectant, so it will draw water from the outside environment into the skin, contributing to hydrated and glowing complexion. Castor oil is known to be a great option those with acne.
8. Cloudberry Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1
| Best For: Oily, Acne-Prone | High in Linoleic and Linolenic Acid |
Cloudberry (Rubus chamaemorus) is a very small golden fruit that is packed with a lot of Vitamin C – more than four times of an orange! When the extract is applied to the skin it has been proven to brighten and energize dull complexions. It has also been shown to protect the skin and eye area from signs of aging. It is also rich in vitamin E. Cloudberry oil is great for those with acne or any type of inflammatory skin issues.
9. Cucumber Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1
| Best For: Most Skin Types | High in Linoleic Acid |
Everyone knows cucumbers as refreshing, hydrating fruit. But did you know that it can also be beneficial to apply cucumber topically? Cucumber oil is rich in Vitamin E, Linoleic Acid, and many other nutrients for the skin. This oil is a great anti-ager because it helps keep the skin’s protective barrier strong and improves firmness and elasticity. It is also antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, so this versatile oil can diminish signs of aging while promoting cell regeneration.
10. Emu Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1
| Best For: Most Skin Types | High in Oleic Acid, Moderate in Palmitic Acid |
Emu oil is made from the fat of an emu. The emu is a flightless bird, native to Australia, that looks very similar to an ostrich. So unfortunately, this is not a vegan oil. Emu oil has very small particles, so it is easily penetrated into the skin and can carry other active ingredients with it. This oil has beneficial properties, but there are many similar natural oils out there that are extracted from plants instead of animals.
11. Grapeseed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1
| Best For: Most Skin Types | High in Linoleic Acid |
Grape-seed oil is a fairly affordable, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant packed oil. Extracted from the seeds of grapes, this oil is great for managing acne and moisturizing dry skin. It is also claimed to be a protectant from harmful UV rays. This is a popular oil in many skincare and beauty products.
12. Hazelnut Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1
| Best For: Most Skin Types, especially Sensitive, Acne-Prone | High in Oleic Acid |
Hazelnut oil contains tannins, which are powerful antioxidants. The tannins in hazelnut oil make it an astringent product. Astringents can help dry oily skin, cleanse and shrink pores, and remove bacteria. This makes it great for acne prone people, but because it isn’t alcohol based like most astringents it is also perfect for those with sensitive skin.
13. Kiwi Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1
| Best For: Dry, Flaky, Hair Use | High in Linolenic Acid |
Kiwi seed oil is a nourishing oil packed with lot so of fatty acids and vitamins. Kiwi seed is known as a “dry oil” because it absorbs into the skin very quickly and does not leave a residue. This oil is great for creating a thin barrier for the skin to lock in moisture and block out harmful pollutants/irritants. Kiwi oil is definitely gaining popularity in the skincare world with its beneficial properties.
14. Meadowfoam Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1
| Best For: Oily, Acne-Prone, Sensitive | High in Eicosenoic Acid |
Meadowfoam (aka Limnanthes alba) seed oil is a plant based oil derived from meadowfoam seeds. It is composed of mostly fatty acids and antioxidants, which is why you’ll find it in quite a few skincare and hair care products. This oil is comparable to argan oil, but at a cheaper price and more stable. This oil is high in eicosenoic acid, which is a more rare acid that aids in the balancing of sebum in the skin.
15. Pomegranate Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1
| Best For: Most Skin Types, especially Mature | High in Punicic Acid |
This oil contains vitamin C as well as other antioxidants such as anthocyanins, ellagic acid, and tannins. The antioxidant properties of pomegranate seed oil promote cell regeneration and collagen synthesis. Punicic acid can help calm skin ailments such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
16. Rosehip Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1
| Best For: Oily, Acne-Prone | High in Linoleic Acid, Moderate in Linolenic Acid |
Rosehip oil is very popular amongst the skincare community. This oil is known to brighten skin, even out skin tone, and is great for anti-aging. Linoleic acid is recommended f you suffer from acne because there is a link between linoleic deficiency and breakouts. This oil is accessible, suitable for all skin types and works well with most other skincare ingredients/products.
17. Sea Buckthorn Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1
| Best For: Most Skin Types, especially Mature/Dry | High in Palmitic, Palmitoleic and Oleic Acid |
Sea Buckthorn is definitely gaining popularity and becoming a more “trendy” skincare oil. It comes from the flowering Hippophaes rhamnoides plant and the oil is extracted from the berries it produces. You will notice it in more and more skincare products. This is a very hydrating oil that helps achieve that smooth and plump complexion. It has been found that sea buckthorn plant berries carry 10 times more vitamin C than an orange and they are also the third-highest source of vitamin E among plants. This is another great, non-comedogenic and nourishing option for everyone out there.
18. Strawberry Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1
| Best For: Most Skin Types, especially Oily/Acne-Prone | High in Linoleic and Linolenic Acid |
Strawberry seed oil is another proclaimed “dry oil”, so it has a very fast absorption rate and leaves no residue on the surface of the skin. Similar to other oils with a high amount of linoleic and linolenic acid, strawberry seed oil prevents the breakdown of collagen, promotes collagen production, calms sensitive/inflamed skin and reduces scars!
19. Acai Berry Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Best For: Dry, Mature, Irritated | High in Oleic Acid and Moderate in Linoleic Acid |
Acai berry oil has a comedogenic rating of 2, so it may not be a good option for those with acne prone skin. This oil is great, however, for those with aging or very dry skin. Acai berry oil is packed with phenolics and antioxidants to boost the skins elasticity, reduce fine lines, and prevent moisture loss.
20. Sweet Almond Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Best For: Dry, Sensitive, Acne-Prone | High in Oleic Acid |
Sweet almond oil is full of vitamin E, vitamin A, monosaturated fatty acids, protein, potassium, and zinc; which can all be beneficial for your skin health. Full of fatty acids as well, this is a highly moisturizing oil with benefits such as collagen support, UV damage protection and moisture retention.
21. Andiroba Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Best For: Dry, Acne-Prone | High in Oleic Acid, Moderate in Linoleic Acid |
Andiroba is a tree that grows in Brazil, Colombia, Venzuela, Paraguay, Surinami, and the Carribena islands. This oil is rich in Omega 9 and 6 fatty acids. This is a moderately absorbant oil that leaves the skin with a nice silky smooth finish after application. This would be a great oil for those with very dry skin. It is tolerated by many acne sufferers, but not all.
22. Apricot Kernel Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Best For: Dry | High in Oleic Acid, Moderate in Linoleic Acid |
Apricot kernel oil packed with tocopherols and phytosterols, which are emollients that help protect the skin barrier from moisture loss and environmental damage. This oil may not be suitable for those who are prone to acne, but a good oil for dry, irritated, and aging skin.
23. Baobob Oil- Comedogenic Rating:2
| Best For: Most Skin Types | High in Oleic Acid, Moderate Linoleic |
Baobab trees are native to Africa and have long been used in their culture for the beneficial properties of the oil. The oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acid present in this oil helps to moisturize, repair the skin barrier and reduce inflammation. Baobab is another plant oil that contains about 7-10% more vitamin C than oranges, which also makes it a powerful antioxidant oil. The moderate amount of linoleic acid in this oil makes it less likely to worsen acne.
24. Black Cumin Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating:2
| Best For: Combination Skin | High in Linoleic Acid, Moderate Oleic |
Black Cumin Seed Oil is a vitamin packed, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory oil. The beneficial nutrients found in this oil include, folic acid, calcium, niacin, Vitamin A, Vitamin B3, and Vitamin D. The fatty acids in Black Cumin Seed oil are known to help balance the skin’s oil production, which can aid in the reduction of acne. This is also a great oil for evening out skintone and calming redness/irritation.
25. Borage Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Best For: Combination, Oily, Sensitive | High in Linoleic Acid and GLA |
Borage seed oil is derived from the seeds a Mediterranean plant called the Borago officinalis. The entire plant is known to be used for medicinal properties, but the seed oil is specifically wonderful for the skin. Borage seed oil can speed up the wound healing process as well as repair the skin barrier. This oil is also high in GLA (gamma linolenic acid), which is a fatty acid that, which is essential for achieving a healthy skin barrier, especially if you suffer from inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema.
26. Brazil Nut Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Best Fort: Dry, Mature | High in Oleic Acid, Moderate Linoleic |
Brazil nut oil comes from one of the largest and longest-living trees native to the Amazon rainforest, scientifically known as Bertholletia excelsa. Not only is the Brazil nut extremely beneficial for your health, it also supports the health of your skin. Brazil nuts are full of calcium, selenium, potassium, and magnesium. All of these nutrients can aid in a healthy and glowing complexion.
27. Buriti Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Best For: Dry, Mature | High in Oleic Acid |
Buriti oil is extracted from the moriche palm tree in the Amazon and Brazilian forests. When this oil is pressed it delivers one of the richest sources of beta carotene. Beta carotene is known to be very rejuvenating for a multitude of skincare concerns. Buriti oil is a great option for those with aging skin, very dry skin, and those who are not severely acne prone.
28. Cherry Kernel Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Best For: Most Skin Types, especially Dry/Irritated | High in Oleic and Linoleic Acid |
This aromatic oil is pressed from the cherry seeds and then filtered to produce a light gold, translucent oil. Cherry Kernel oil is rich in vitamin A and vitamin E, which provide hydration and antioxidants to minimize fine lines/ wrinkles and improve skin elasticity. This is a shelf stable oil that can last for up to 3 years if stored properly!
29. Cranberry Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Best For: Dry, Acne-Prone | High in Linoleic Acid, Moderate in Oleic and Linolenic Acid |
Cranberry oil is soothing oil for those suffering from acne and dry skin. The omega fatty acids in this oil provide nourishing moisture, while the antioxidants protect the skin from environmental stressors such as free radicals. Cranberry seed oil is a great oil for protecting the skin barrier and providing a soft, glowing appearance.
30. Jojoba Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Best For: Most Skin Types, including Oily/Acne-Prone | High in Eicosenoic Acid |
Jojoba oil comes the seeds of the jojoba plant that grow in North America. This oil is very popular in the skincare world for a variety of reasons. Jojoba oil is a humectant, so it hydrates the skin by drawing water into it from the outside environment. This oil also has antibacterial properties, so it can help protect your skin from infections. Jojoba oil can control oil production, promote collagen synthesis, and speed up wound healing. The list of benefits from this oil goes on and on!
31. Karanja Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Best For: Dry, Hair Use | High in Oleic Acid |
Karanja plants are native to Asia, and has been used for a long time in Aryuvedic and scientific medicine for a variety of ailments. Karanja oil has been traditionally used for treating skin conditions such as infections, absces, boils, and eczema. Karanja oil contains antioxidant and essential compounds that help prevent premature greying of hair, besides boosting overall hair health. It helps prevent dandruff by keeping the skin clean and healthy. These oils’ antifungal properties can be used to treat scalp irritations, dryness, and/or dandruff.
32. Kukui Nut Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Best For: Dry, Flaky, Hair Use | High in Linoleic Acid, Moderate in Oleic and Linolenic Acid |
Kukui nuts are native to the Hawaiian Islands, and the natives of the island have been using this oil for centuries for a variety of uses. A few known benefits of kukui nut oil include faster wound healing, reduced wrinkles, pain and inflammation relief, moisture/eczema relief.
33. Lanolin Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Best For: Very Dry Skin | NA |
Lanolin is an oil that is produced by sheep. It is known as one of the most moisturizing oils for severely dehydrated, dry skin. Lanolin oil is often recommended for patients who are undergoing accutane treatment, because it is one of the few ingredients that can provide relief from the extremely dry skin. This is a great lip and skin moisturizer during the colder, dryer months, or if you suffer year round from dry and flaky skin.
34. Olive Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Best For: Dry, Acne-Prone | High in Oleic Acid |
Olive oil is very popular to be used in the kitchen, but it can also be a great skincare oil. Olive oil has a pretty generous amount of antioxidants and vitamins. This oil has some antibacterial properties as well. This is a highly moisturizing oil, but it may not be the best option out there. Olive oil is on the more affordable side, but there are other oil out there that may have more nutrients and less comedogenic.
35. Pumpkin Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Most Skin Types | High in Linoleic Acid, Moderate in Oleic Acid |
Pumpkin seed oil is high in Vitamin C, Vitamin E, zinc, and selenium. Pumpkin seed is a very anti-inflammatory oil which is great for those who suffer from eczema or psoriasis. The vitamin C promotes collagen regeneration and skin-cell regrowth. Pumpkin seed oil is also high in vitamin B2, which is good for dry and acne-prone skin.
36. Tamanu Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2
| Best For: Most Skin Types, especially Scarred/Sensitive | High in Oleic and Linoleic Acid |
Tamanu trees are mostly grown in Southeat Asia. It has been used for centuries in that region, and the oil has a noteworthy dark green color with a thick consistency. This oil is perfect for people who have scarring or other hyperpigmentation. The high amount of fatty acids can speed up wound healing and promote collagen production to speed up the lightening of scars. This oil should not be applied to open wounds, and it has a slight comedogenity so it has the potential to clog pores.
37. Avocado Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 3
| Best For: Dry, Acne-Prone | High in Oleic Acid |
Avocado oil is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, D, and E. Another nourishing oil that soothes, hydrates, and moisturizes the skin.
38. Chia Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating:3
| Best For: Body Use | High in Linolenic |
Chia seed oil is a highly moisturizing oil that protects the skin from free radical damage and flaky/dry skin. It is high in many antioxidants but does not have a high concentration of Vitamin C.
39. Date Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 3
| Best For: Dry | High in Oleic Acid |
Date oil is a protective oil known to prevent damage from UV-B and UV-C radiation. It can also protect your skin from harsh oxidative chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide and other toxins. The high amount fo oleic acid in this oil makes it very hydrating and best to use during very cold and dry months. As with all other comedogenic ratings of 3, it may not be the best option for those with acne prone skin because it has the higher potential to clog pores.
40. Sesame Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 3
| Best For: Dry, Irritated | High in Linoleic and Oleic Acid |
Sesame seed oil has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Refined sesame seed oil actually has a comedogenic of rating of 1, but unflitered/unrefined sesame oil has a rating of 3. If you have acne prone skin, it would be best to seek out some refined sesame oil, but both kinds are great for dry and irritated skin. The antioxidants provide the anti-inflammatory benefits while the fatty acids give your skin hydration
41. Coconut Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 4
| Best For: Very Dry, Best for Body Use | High in Lauric Acid |
Coconut oil is very popular in the beauty and skin community. This oil is occlusive, so it traps moisture (and anything else on the skin). Coconut oil has antibacterial properties, but the occlusive properties and comedogenicity of this oil make it a not-so-good choice for those who have acne.
42. Flax Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 4
| Best For: Very Dry, Best for Body Use | High in Alpha Linolenic Acid |
Flax seed oil has very large molecules, meaning the skin does not fully absorb it. Because of the low absorbency, this mainly acts as humectant to trap moisture into the skin strengthen the skin barrier. Flax seed oil is pretty comedogenic, so it is best to use if you aren’t super prone to acne or just use it on areas of your body that don’t break out easily.
43. Babassu Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1-2
| Best For: Most Skin Types | High in Lauric, Myristic and Oleic Acid |
Babassu oil is great for dry skin and handling redness. The oil is 70% fatty acids and absorbs quickly into the skin, making it great for a quick boost of moisture. The lauric acid content in this oil makes it just as hydrating as coconut oil but babassu is much more lightweight so it will not leave your skin feeling greasy.
44. Black Raspberry Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1-2
| Best For: Dry, Combination, Acne-Prone | High in Linoleic Acid, Moderate Linolenic |
This oil is rich in polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids and is low in saturated fats. It contains up to 85% of essential fatty acids, making it a great moisturizer. This is another very lightweight oil, so if you don’t like the feeling of greasy oils on the skin this is a great option.Black raspberry seed oil also contains ellagic acid, which is known to protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
45. Elderberry Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1-2
| Best For: Most Skin Types | High in Linoelic and Linolenic Acid |
Elderberries are known for their immune boosting properties when ingested. The oil that comes from the seeds of these berries is also beneficial for skin health. This oil has a high absorbency rate and leaves the skin with a silky smooth feeling. This is a nutrient dense oil that works well with many different skin types.
46. Guava Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1-2
| Best For: Most Skin Types | High in Linoleic Acid |
Guavas are full of skin loving vitamins and antioxidants. Linoleic, oleic, palmitic, and stearic acids present in guava oil can help to protect the skin barrier, fight inflammation, hydrate, and restore elasticity while keeping the skin supple.
47. Neem Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1-2
| Best For: Dry, Acne-Prone | High in Oleic Acid |
Neem oil comes from the seeds and fruits of the neem tree, which is native to India. Neem oil is good for reducing redness/scarring, balancing oil production, and stimulate collagen formation. This is a very healing oil with high amounts of fatty acids and vitamin C. Neem oil even has some antibacterial and antiseptic properties which make it suitable to use for those with acne.
48. Maracuja Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1-2
| Best For: Oily, Irritated, Acne-Prone | High in Linoleic Acid |
Maracuja is more commonly known as passionfruit, which is a fruit native to the Amazon Forest. Maracuja oil is rich in vitamins A, E, C, and calcium and phosphorus. Maracuja oil also contains 72.6% linoleic acid, which makes it one of the best sources of the essential fatty acid on the planet. This is a dry oil that is easily absorbed into the skin to provide moisture even for those with an oily skin type. This is definitely a “super oil” due to it’s nutrient profile, absorbency rate, and tolerance for all skin types.
49. Perilla Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1-2
| Best For: Most Skin Types, especially Dry | High in ALA |
Perilla is among the mint family and grows natively in Eastern Asia. Perilla oil is a good source of omega 3 fatty acids, giving the oil repairing and healing properties. This oil also contains a high amount of ALA (Alpha Lipoic Acid), which is an amazing anti-aging ingredient not found in many other oils. ALA is great for sensitive skin because it very rarely causes any irritation.
50. Prickly Pear Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 1-2
| Best For: Most Skin Types, especially Oily/Combination | High in Linoleic Acid |
This oil literally comes from the inside of a cactus plant. The beneficial ingredients found in this oil include omega fatty acids and a high amount of Vitamin E and K. All of these vitamins and antioxidants work together to brighten, hydrate, and strengthen the skin barrier.
51. Evening Primrose Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2-3
| Best For: Oily, Acne-Prone, Combination | High in Linoleic Acid, Moderate in GLA |
This oil is extracted from the seeds of the Evening Primrose Plant. The high amount of linoleic acid in this oil make it a great anti-inflammatory product. This oil is thicker in consistency, so it really locks moisture into the skin. Due to the thickness and oiliness of evening primrose, it’s not a good option for those with acne-prone skin.
52. Macadamia Nut Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2-3
| Best For: Dry Skin | High in Oleic Acid, Moderate in Palmitoleic Acid |
Macadamia nut oil is a great source of vegan squalane, which can maintain the fluidity/hydration of skin cells to keep skin looking hydrated. As well as containing Squalene, Australian Macadamia Oil is rich in Palmitoleic acid and Oleic Acid. These acids maintain a healthy amount of keratin, which is a protein that is necessary for healthy skin. Macadamia nut oil works well to treat a variety of inflammatory skin conditions.
53. Papaya Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 2-3
| Best For: Dry, Acne-Prone, Sensitive | High in Oleic Acid |
Papaya is a superfruit full of anti-inflammatory and nourishing properties. Papaya seed oil can brighten the complexion, act as a gentle exfoliant, reduce acne, and delay wrinkles. Papaya oil contains enzymes that are naturally exfoliating and acne fighting. The variety of nutrients in this oil make it suitable for many different skin types.
54. Carrot Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 3-4
| Best For: Dry, Mature | High in Oleic Acid |
There are many oils out there that people are surprised to find even exist. Carrot seed oil tends to be one of the more obscure beneficial oils out there. It contains antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, so it has the potential to kill e. Coli, dermatophytes, and a few other harmful microorganisms. Carrot seed oil even has an SPF of 40, so it has been used as a natural sunscreen. Just remember that carrot seed oil has a comedogenic rating of around 3/4, so not t the best to use if you break out easily.
55. Marula Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 3-4
| Best For: Very Dry, Sensitive | High in Oleic Acid |
Marula oil is derived from the marula tree found in the sub-Saharan areas of Africa. Marula oil seals in moisture by active as an occlusive. The fatty acid profile of marula oil is similar to the sebum that skin naturally produces, so it is easily absorbed. Last but not least, marula oil is able to prevent signs of aging and protect the skin barrier due to the antioxidants.
56. Moringa Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 3-4
| Best For: Dry, Combination | High in Oleic Acid |
Moringa trees are one of the most nutrient-dense plants on the Earth. Moringa contains a high amount of zeatin, which promotes cellular growth to promote healing and decrease aging. Moringa oil is also high in oleic acid which supports the skin barrier. This oil works best for those with very dry and/or aging skin.
57. Black Current Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 0-1
| Best For: Dry, Sensitive | High in Linoleic Acid + GLA and ALA |
Black current seed oil has the ability to fight acne and aging with their high amounts of antioxidants. GLA aids in the shedding of excess skin, which will in turn prevent acne. ALA is another antioxidant found in this oil which effective in reducing signs of aging.
58. Blackberry Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 0-1
| Best For: Oily | High in Linoleic, Moderate Linolenic Acid |
Blackberries are extremely high in antioxidants, so it’s no wonder the oil is very beneficial for skin. Blackberry seed oil is high in anthocianins to promote collagen synthesis, and vitamin C to promote healing, cell regeneration, and polyphenols + ellagic acid to reduce itchiness/inflammation. This is a great lightweight oil for even those with oily skin.
59. Blueberry Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 0-1
| Best For: Most Skin Types, especially Oily/Acne-Prone | High in Linoleic Acid, Moderate Linolenic & Oleic |
Although blueberry seed oil is not the most popular carrier oil, it still has a bunch of skin loving properties. This is another oil that is high in antioxidants, it brightens and evens the complexion. The high levels of Phytosterols and vitamin E in Blueberry seed oil play a big role when it comes to skin absorption. The moisturizing effect from these ingredients that up the pores so that the oil and any other active products can penetrate into the skin effectively. Although this oil is high in healthy fatty acids, it is light and greaseless, because of the low molecular composition.
60. Goji Berry Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 0-1
| Best For: Oily | High in Linoleic Acid |
Goji berry oil is not an ultra-hydrating oil, so it’s great to use if you have a more oily skin type. Goji berry oil is effective for strengthening and protecting the skin barrier due to the high amount of antioxidants. It can protect the skin barrier from harmful UV rays and other environmental pollutants.
61. Red Raspberry Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 0-1
| Best For: Most Skin Types | High in Linoleic Acid, Moderate in Linolenic Acid |
There are so many berry oils that our skin just loves! Red raspberry seed oil is actually used as a natural sunscreen! It can protect your skin from UVB and UVC rays, but unfortunately not UVA rays. Using red raspberry oil alone is not effective enough to protect your skin, especially because UVA rays are very harmful. This oil can be a great addition to your skincare if you want some extra hydration and protection.
62. Squalane Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 0-1
| Best For: Most Skin Types | High in Omega-2 |
Originally, squalene oil was derived from the livers of sharks, but that is no longer the case due to ethical concerns. Nowadays, squalane is extracted from many different vegan sources such as olives. Squalane is derived from animals, squalene is derived from plants. This oil prevents water loss to give your skin a beautiful dewy glow. This oil is great for all skin types, including acne prone.
63. Watermelon Seed Oil- Comedogenic Rating: 0-1
| Best For: Most Skin Types, especially Oily/Acne-Prone/Sensitive | High in Linoleic Acid |
Watermelon seed oil is an unexpected carrier oil that your skin will love. It has a high amount of linoleic acids which makes it a hydrating yet lightweight oil. It’s also high in antioxidants, which will help curb inflammation and hyperpigmentation. This lightweight oil will not be too heavy for oily skin and it’s not comedogenic so it will not break you out!
We hope you can use this list of oils to help you learn about which carrier oil might work best for you and provide you with the benefits/nourishment that your skin needs!
