The answer depends on the type of face oil and your skin's specific needs. While some face oils can worsen acne by clogging pores, others can actually help improve skin health and reduce breakouts.
Understanding Comedogenicity
Many face oils are considered comedogenic, meaning they can clog pores and lead to blackheads and pimples. This is because they are occlusive, physically blocking water loss and potentially trapping oil and dirt within the pores. Ingredients like petrolatum, mineral oil, beeswax, lanolin, and paraffin are examples of occlusive ingredients to watch out for. [^1] However, not all oils are created equal.
Oils That Can Help Acne-Prone Skin
Certain oils are considered non-comedogenic, meaning they are less likely to clog pores. Examples include:
- Jojoba oil: Mimics the skin's natural sebum, helping to balance oil production. [^9]
- Almond oil: Contains fatty acids that moisturize dry skin. [^4]
- Rosehip seed oil: Often cited for its potential skin-healing properties. [^5]
- Tea tree oil: Possesses antibacterial properties that may help fight acne-causing bacteria. [^5, ^10]
- Black cumin seed oil: Another oil with potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. [^5, ^10]
These oils can be beneficial for acne-prone skin because they can hydrate the skin without clogging pores, which is important. Dehydrated skin often overproduces oil, leading to more breakouts. [^3] Using a non-comedogenic oil can help regulate oil production and prevent future breakouts.
Oils That May Worsen Acne
On the other hand, some oils, like coconut oil, despite claims to the contrary, are still largely considered comedogenic and could trigger breakouts in some individuals. [^7] The effects of coconut oil on acne are still debated, even though it has antibacterial properties. [^7] Even oils typically considered safe can cause breakouts in certain individuals; this is due to factors like individual skin sensitivity and the specific formulation. [^6, ^8]
Conclusion
Choosing the right face oil is crucial. Look for non-comedogenic options and conduct a patch test before applying any new product to your entire face. Always consider your skin type and individual reaction when selecting face oils for acne-prone skin.
[^1]: Occlusive oils are oils that physically block water loss. They're found in many skin care products, and can cause breakouts for some people. Petrolatum, Mineral Oil, Beeswax, Lanolin, and Paraffin are some occlusive ingredients to watch out for.
[^3]: Though it may seem counterintuitive to use oil on oily skin, it can actually help! Skin that is lacking in natural oils will often overproduce to make up for it
[^4]: Non-comedogenic oils are known for not clogging pores. One example is Almond Oil, which has high levels of fatty acids and can help moisturize dry skin.
[^5]: Yes, Oils Can Help With Acne—These Are 9 of the Best · Camellia Oil · Rosehip Seed Oil · Tea Tree Oil · Black Cumin Seed Oil · Pomegranate Seed Oil.
[^6]: ... acne) and every single oil I've tried has broken me out even mineral oil and squalane which are fungal acne safe.
[^7]: Coconut oil is high in lauric acid, which helps kill the bacteria that cause acne. Applying coconut oil to the skin can kill acne-causing bacteria and increase
[^8]: Some makeup, along with many skin and hair care products, contain oil or other ingredients that can cause acne breakouts. If you continue to use them, you may
[^9]: Top Acne-Safe Facial Oils · Jojoba Oil (Rating: 0-2): Closely mimics the skin's natural sebum, making it excellent for balancing oil production
[^10]: With salicylic acid, tea tree oil, black cumin seed oil, this acne treatment clears blackheads from your nose, chin, and forehead, while preventing and
