5 Non-Comedogenic Oils for Skin Care

A comedo (plural comedones) is a clogged pore in the skin. Comedones are caused by increased oil production in the sebaceous glands, but makeup and some skin products might increase comedones by blocking pores. Carrier oils are often listed among the most comedogenic skin care products because of their high fat content, but in fact there are vegetable oils that have a very low likelihood of clogging our pores.

Argan Oil

One of the most valuable carrier oils, argan oil is produced from the kernels of the argan tree that only grows in Morocco. Its main constituents are oleic acid (monounsaturated), linoleic acid (polyunsaturated) and palmitic acid (saturated). Argan oil is traditionally used in Morocco to treat skin diseases.

With its high vitamin E and fatty acid content, argan oil is a great natural moisturizer that absorbs easily and gives skin a natural boost. It prevents premature skin aging, combats dry skin conditions such as eczema, helps to heal acne instead of exacerbating it, and protects skin from irritation and damage.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is pressed from the fruit of the avocado tree. It is high in monounsaturated fats and vitamin E. As a cosmetic oil, avocado oil is valued for its moisturizing and regenerative properties. This oil is characterized by high skin penetration and rapid absorption, which means that it doesn’t clog pores.

You can use avocado oil to replenish dry skin and keep it hydrated, calm itchy skin, heal flaky and chapped skin, and protect your skin from ultraviolet radiation. It is also recommended as an effective treatment for blackheads and acne, eczema, and other forms of skin inflammation. It is important to look for cold pressed and unrefined avocado oil for a maximum effect.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is obtained from the seeds of the jojoba plant native to Southwestern North America. Although it visually appears to be a liquid oil, it is actually a wax composed almost entirely of mono-esters of long-chain fatty acids and alcohols. Due to such composition, it closely reminds sebum, which makes jojoba oil a natural skin conditioner.

Native Americans used jojoba oil to treat wounds and sores. Today, it is mostly used as a skin moisturizer and lubricant. Jojoba oil helps to regulate sebum secretion so it can be used to control oily skin and acne. You can also use this oil to treat eczema and psoriasis, as well as to reduce the effects of sunburn.

Grape Seed Oil

Grape seed oil, also known as grape oil, is a by-product of wine making as it is pressed from the seeds of grapes. It is high in unsaturated fat, namely linoleic acid and oleic acid. Saturated fats that can be found in grape seed oil include stearic acid and palmitic acid. This is an easily absorbed, gentle oil that is very light on the skin.

Grape seed oil is valued for its anti-age and healing properties. It contains antioxidants that prevent premature skin aging and acne scars, as well as help to reduce wrinkles and scars. Like jojoba oil, grape seed oil is used to balance oily and combination skin. It leaves the skin hydrated and soft to the touch without causing oiliness.

Sweet Almond Oil

Light on the skin and gently scented, sweet almond oil is obtained from the seeds of the almond tree. It contains 32% monounsaturated oleic acid, 13% polyunsaturated linoleic acid, and 10% saturated fat. Sweet almond oil is one of the richest sources of tocopherol (vitamin E), a natural antioxidant that prevents premature skin aging.

Almond oil is mild and hypoallergenic. It can be safely used even on overly sensitive baby skin. It easily penetrates deep into the skin and absorbs well, leaving the skin incredibly soft and supple. Almond oil can be used to relieve sunburned skin, eczema and psoriasis, to treat skin rashes, and to reduce fine lines, age spots and other signs of aging.