Comedogenic Ratings of Carrier Oils: Full Chart and How to Use It

Non-comedogenic oils are carrier oils commonly rated between 0 and 2 on the traditional comedogenic scale, meaning they are generally considered less likely to clog pores. Popular options include jojoba oil, argan oil, hemp seed oil, rosehip oil, and sunflower oil. However, these ratings are only general guidelines, not scientifically validated guarantees. An oil's effect can vary depending on its formulation, how it is used, and individual skin type.

Choosing a carrier oil for your skincare routine often comes down to one important consideration: how likely is it to clog your pores? Some oils have a reputation for feeling lightweight and leaving little residue, while others are richer and may not suit every skin type. Understanding comedogenic ratings of carrier oils can help you compare these options before adding one to your routine.

You'll also learn what the ratings mean, which non comedogenic oils are worth considering, and why these numbers should be treated as general guidelines rather than guarantees about how your skin will react.

What Is the Comedogenic Scale?

The comedogenic scale is a rating system used to describe how likely an ingredient is to contribute to clogged pores. It typically ranges from 0 to 5, with 0 representing a low likelihood of pore clogging and 5 representing a higher likelihood.

The scale is commonly used when comparing facial oils, carrier oils, butters and other skincare ingredients. It can be a useful starting point when selecting an oil, particularly if you have oily or combination skin.

What Do Comedogenic Ratings 0–5 Actually Mean?

A lower comedogenic rating generally makes an ingredient a more appealing starting point for someone concerned about pore congestion. However, a rating of 0 does not guarantee that an oil will work for everyone.

The scale also has limitations. Many commonly circulated ratings come from older experimental testing, including rabbit-ear assays, rather than extensive controlled studies on human facial skin. The results do not always translate directly to everyday skincare use.

For this reason, the comedogenic scale for oils should be used as a comparison tool, not as a definitive measure of whether an ingredient will cause breakouts.

Full Comedogenic Ratings Chart for Carrier Oils (0–5)

The following comedogenic rating of oils chart brings together commonly referenced ratings for popular carrier oils and cosmetic butters. It includes their general fatty-acid characteristics and typical cosmetic applications to help you compare ingredients.

These are approximate, commonly cited ratings rather than clinically validated predictions. Some oils have conflicting ratings across published lists, so a range is more appropriate where the available references disagree.

Non-Comedogenic Oils (Ratings 0–2)

Oils rated between 0 and 2 are commonly grouped as non comedogenic oils or low-comedogenic options. They're often viewed as safer bets for those who like lighter oils or want to play it safe with pore-clogging concerns.

Here are some popular options:

1. Argan Oil (0)

The fatty acids oleic acid and linoleic acid and naturally occurring tocopherols are found in argan oil. Argan oil provides a light feeling compared to some other more luxurious botanical oils and is a popular choice for use in facial and hair care products.

2. Hemp Seed Oil (0)

Hemp seed oil contains a high proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids. Its lightweight texture makes it a popular ingredient in facial oil blends.

3. Sunflower Oil (0–1)

Sunflower oil is available in different fatty-acid compositions. High-linoleic sunflower oil is often included in lightweight skincare formulations, while high-oleic varieties have a different composition.

4. Safflower Oil (0–1)

High-linoleic safflower oil is often found in lightweight facial and body care lines. Be sure to look for this ingredient variety, as the fatty-acid makeup will differ.

5. Rosehip Oil (1)

Rosehip oil contains linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids, along with oleic acid. It is frequently used in facial oil blends because of its characteristic lightweight feel.

6. Grapeseed Oil (1–2)

Grapeseed oil contains high amounts of linoleic acid and is used primarily in light massage and facial products.

7. Jojoba Oil (2)

Although often called "oil," jojoba is actually a liquid wax and not a typical vegetable oil made from triglycerides. Jojoba's esters are similar to certain constituents of human sebum, which is why jojoba is commonly used in facial and body care products.

8. Castor Oil (1)

This oil has a high ricinoleic acid content and has a thicker viscosity than most carrier oils. Castor oil has a viscosity that is considered thick yet on typical comedogenic charts often receives a low score.

Moderate Comedogenic Oils (Rating 3)

Oils with a rating around 3 fall into the moderate category. They are not automatically unsuitable for facial use, but people concerned about pore congestion may prefer to test them carefully.

The higher oleic-acid content of certain oils can influence their texture and overall composition. However, fatty-acid content alone cannot determine whether an ingredient will clog pores.

These oils may still be useful in body care, massage blends and richer cosmetic formulations, depending on the intended application.

High Comedogenic Oils (Ratings 4–5)

Oils and butters with ratings of 4 or 5 are generally considered higher-comedogenic options in traditional charts.

These ingredients are not automatically bad for skincare. Their richer composition and texture may be better suited to certain body care formulations than to facial products for people who are concerned about clogged pores.

The important distinction is that a higher rating indicates a greater potential for pore congestion according to traditional rating systems, not a guarantee that an ingredient will cause breakouts.

How to Use the Comedogenic Chart (and Understand Its Limits)

A comedogenic rating chart can help narrow down your carrier oil choices, but the number should never be the only factor guiding your skincare decisions.

Here are five things to consider when using the chart.

1. Consider Your Skin Type

However, your skin type is also going to play a role in how that oil feels and works for you. In cases of oily skin, you may want to use a light oil, while for dry skin, you may want to go for something heavier.

2. Look Beyond the Rating

An oil's fatty-acid profile, texture and overall formulation all matter. Two oils with similar ratings may feel completely different on the skin.

3. Pay Attention to Concentration

A pure carrier oil applied by itself doesn't always mean that it is the same as it is at a lower percentage of use in a finished formula.

4. Introduce One New Oil at a Time

We suggest trying out new products one at a time so you can identify exactly how your skin is reacting. Do not overdo it with trying multiple new products all at once, and you won't know which one caused a reaction.

5. Keep in mind that ratings don't promise anything

As a result, the name non-comedogenic doesn't mean that everyone will be able to tolerate every product. The skin's response is unique to each person, and the final product may differ from the ingredient alone.

Are Comedogenic Ratings Scientifically Reliable?

The comedogenic rating system is useful as a general reference, but it has important scientific limitations.

Many traditional ratings trace back to older testing methods, including rabbit-ear assays. These experiments were designed to evaluate the potential of ingredients to produce comedones under specific conditions. However, rabbit skin does not behave exactly like human facial skin.

A review published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology discussed limitations of the rabbit-ear model, including the lack of reliable correlation with real-world human experience.

There are also several reasons why a rating may not accurately predict how a finished skincare product will perform:

• Individual skin differences: The way our skin responds to the same ingredient can differ among individuals.

• Formulation: An oil by itself can act differently when mixed with other ingredients.

• Concentration: The quantity of a single ingredient in a formula or each ingredient can play a role.

• Application: The quantity and frequency of use can affect how a product feels on the skin.

• Oil composition: Fatty-acid profiles can vary depending on the plant variety, processing and refining method.

The best approach is to use the chart as an initial screening tool rather than a strict rulebook.

Best Non-Comedogenic Oils by Skin Type

Choosing among non comedogenic oils for skin involves more than looking for a rating of 0. Texture, absorption, fatty-acid composition and personal preference all influence which carrier oil may fit into your routine.

Here are some options to consider based on common skincare preferences.

Best Non-Comedogenic Oils for Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

People with oily or blemish-prone skin often prefer lightweight oils that do not leave a heavy or greasy finish.

Some commonly considered options include:

• Hemp seed oil: Contains linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids and has a lightweight texture.

• Argan oil: Offers a relatively light feel and contains oleic and linoleic acids.

• Grapeseed oil: Regularly added to light facial and body oil recipes.

• Sunflower oil: Light blends in cosmetic applications often feature the high-linoleic types.

• Jojoba Oil: Has a liquid wax ester and is a regular in facial products.

These are possible starting points, not guaranteed solutions for acne-prone skin. If a particular oil feels too heavy or does not suit your skin, discontinue its use.

Best Non-Comedogenic Oils for Dry Skin

Extra dry skin may be aided by emollient-rich ingredients that decrease water loss and allow the skin to feel soft and smooth.

Consider:

• Argan oil: A flexible product for facial and body care.

• Jojoba oil: Suitable for everyday moisturising routines.

• Sweet almond oil: Provides a more plush, emollient sensation on the body.

• Avocado oil: A thick oil that's found in often heavy-duty skincare preparations.

• Rosehip oil: It is frequently used in facial oil products.

A low comedogenic rating is not the only consideration for dry skin. The oil's texture and how comfortable it feels after application matter too.

Best Non-Comedogenic Oils for Combination Skin

Combination skin can benefit from a balanced approach, particularly when different areas of the face have different needs.

Some options worth exploring include:

• Jojoba Oil: An all in one oil for the face and body.

• Argan oil: Has a relatively lightweight feel.

• Rosehip oil: Typical addition to facial oil mixes.

• Sunflower oil: Varieties offered with various fatty-acid compositions and textures.

Start with a small amount rather than applying several oils at once. This makes it easier to identify which texture and formulation your skin prefers.

Spotlight: What Are the Comedogenic Ratings of Popular Carrier Oils?

Some carrier oils are searched more frequently than others because people want to understand whether they are suitable for facial application.

Let's look at the most commonly discussed options.

Is Castor Oil Comedogenic?

Castor oil is generally assigned a comedogenic rating of 1, placing it in the low-comedogenic category in traditional charts.

It is primarily composed of ricinoleic acid, which gives it its characteristic thick and viscous consistency. Unlike lighter oils, castor oil can leave a noticeable coating on the skin.

So, is castor oil pore clogging?

Not likely. While its generally listed ability to clog pores is fairly low, this may vary from person to person. Its denser consistency may also be too heavy a feeling for some faces.

Castor oil is commonly used in:

• Body oil formulations

• Massage blends

• Hair and scalp care

• Eyebrow and eyelash conditioning products

• DIY cosmetic oil blends

If you want to use it on your face, start out with a little and see how your skin reacts.

Is Coconut Oil Comedogenic?

Coconut oil is commonly assigned a comedogenic rating of 4, which places it in the higher category of traditional rating charts.

It contains a high proportion of saturated fatty acids, particularly lauric acid. Its rich texture makes it popular in body care, hair care and certain cosmetic formulations.

However, it may not be the first choice for people who prefer lightweight facial oils or are concerned about pore congestion.

Coconut Oil vs Fractionated Coconut Oil

These two ingredients are often confused, but their compositions are different.

Important: The fractionation process removes most of the longer-chain fatty acids from coconut oil, leaving a lighter liquid oil. Therefore, regular coconut oil and fractionated coconut oil should not automatically be considered equally comedogenic.

Is Jojoba Oil Non-Comedogenic?

Jojoba oil is commonly given a comedogenic rating of 2, making it a moderately low option on the traditional scale.

Jojoba is technically a liquid wax, not an oil, because it consists almost entirely of wax esters. Jojoba's composition is very different from common plant oils.

This makes it a popular ingredient in facial, body and hair care formulations.

Gya Labs Organic Jojoba Carrier Oil is cold-pressed from jojoba seeds and has a lightweight feel, making it a versatile addition to everyday skincare and cosmetic blending routines.

Explore Gya Labs Organic Jojoba Carrier Oil.

Is Argan Oil Comedogenic?

Argan oil is commonly assigned a comedogenic rating of 0, which is quite low in conventional comparison charts.

It is composed of linoleic and oleic acids, together with natural tocopherols and other minor constituents.

Its relatively lightweight feel makes it popular in facial oil blends, moisturising routines and hair care.

Gya Labs Organic Argan Carrier Oil is cold-pressed from argan kernels and has a soft, nutty aroma. It can be used in everyday skin and hair care routines.

Explore Gya Labs Organic Argan Carrier Oil.

Is Rosehip Oil Comedogenic?

Generally, Rosehip oil is given a comedogenic rating of 1, which is considered low.

It contains linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid and oleic acid. Its composition and lightweight feel make it a popular choice for facial oil formulations.

In skincare use, rosehip oil is a good alternative to a lighter, more botanical oil.

Gya Labs Organic Rosehip Carrier Oil, another one of the options to choose when comparing botanical oils for face and body care.

Explore Gya Labs Organic Rosehip Carrier Oil.

What About Butters? Shea, Cocoa and Mango Butter Comedogenic Ratings

Carrier oils are not the only ingredients people compare when choosing skincare products. Plant butters are also commonly used in moisturisers, balms and body care formulations.

They tend to have a thicker, more luxurious feel to them, but in terms of comedogenicity, the texture is not always indicative.

Is Shea Butter Non-Comedogenic?

Shea butter is commonly assigned a comedogenic rating of 0, although some reference lists place it within a broader 0–2 range.

It contains a mixture of fatty acids, including oleic and stearic acids, as well as naturally occurring unsaponifiable components.

While its rich consistency has made shea butter unpopular, its not known as a high comedogenic.

It is commonly used in:

• Body butters

• Hand creams

• Lip balms

• Moisturising balms

• Hair and body care products

If you are wondering is shea butter non comedogenic, the answer that most people see listed is a low one. But remember that the overall formula and your skin can still matter.

Is Cocoa Butter Comedogenic?

Cocoa butter is generally assigned a comedogenic rating of 4.

Its mixture is high in stearic, palmitic and oleic acids, which is why it is thick and gooey at room temperature.

It is commonly used in body butters, balms and rich moisturising formulations.

If you tend to favor lightweight facial products, then you may find cocoa butter to be too dense compared to oils like jojoba or argan.

Mango Butter and Kokum Butter

Many of us use mango butter and kokum butter in cosmetics.

The comedogenic ratings of these aren't so well documented in the usual reference lists, so they'd be inappropriate to list as having one.

Both are used in:

• Body butter formulations

• Balms

• Lip care products

• Creams and moisturising products

Their suitability depends on the finished formulation, concentration and individual skin preferences.

Do These Oils Really Clog Pores? Myth vs Reality

There's a common misconception that non-comedogenic means a product or ingredient will not cause or clog pores. However, the relationship between individual oils and your skin isn't quite so simple.

Here are some common misconceptions worth understanding.