Comedogenicity refers to the ability of a substance, such as an oil or ingredient, to clog pores and cause acne. When it comes to choosing oils for skincare, it is important to consider their comedogenic rating to avoid potential breakouts or exacerbation of existing acne.
Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with sebum (the skin's natural oil), dead skin cells, and bacteria. When an oil or ingredient is comedogenic, it means that it has a higher likelihood of contributing to the formation of acne by clogging pores.
In addition to the comedogenic rating scale, there are other factors to consider when choosing oils for skincare. One of these factors is the fatty acid composition of the oil. For example, oils high in oleic acid, such as olive oil, may be more likely to clog pores and cause acne. On the other hand, oils high in linoleic acid, such as grapeseed oil, may help to improve acne-prone skin by reducing inflammation and balancing sebum.
It is also important to consider the quality of the oil being used. Cold-pressed, organic, unrefined oils are generally considered to be of higher quality and more beneficial for the skin than refined oils, which may have lost some of their beneficial properties through processing. Even better? An oil low in PUFA’s!
So what’s the best oil that’s deeply nourishing, low comedogenic AND low PUFA?
You guessed it! Tallow!
Tallow is a type of animal fat that has been used for centuries in skincare products. It is a rich source of essential fatty acids, vitamins A and E, and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). In recent years, tallow has regained popularity in the skincare industry as a natural and nourishing ingredient.
One of the unique properties of tallow is its low comedogenic rating. Tallow has a comedogenic rating of 2, which means it has a relatively low likelihood of clogging pores and causing acne. This makes it an ideal oil for individuals with acne-prone or oily skin who are looking for a natural and non-comedogenic moisturizer.
Tallow also has other benefits for the skin. It is rich in oleic and stearic acids, which help to hydrate and nourish the skin without leaving a greasy residue. Tallow also contains palmitoleic acid, which has been shown to have antimicrobial properties and may help to reduce the presence of acne-causing bacteria on the skin.
Here is a table of common skincare oils and their comedogenic ratings:
| Oil | Comedogenic Rating |
|---|---|
| Argan Oil | 0 |
| Jojoba Oil | 2 |
| Rosehip Oil | 1 |
| Grapeseed Oil | 1-2 |
| Coconut Oil | 4 |
| Olive Oil | 2 |
| Almond Oil | 2 |
| Sunflower Oil | 0-2 |
| Safflower Oil | 0 |
| Avocado Oil | 2 |
| Shea Butter | 0-2 |
| Mineral Oil | 0 |
| Castor Oil | 1 |
| Tea Tree Oil | 0-1 |
| Hemp Seed Oil | 0 |
| Tamanu Oil | 2-3 |
It is important to note that comedogenicity can vary depending on a person's skin type and individual sensitivity to certain oils. It is always recommended to patch test new products and oils on a small area of skin before applying them to the entire face.