What are comodegenic ratings, and why should we care?

Comedogenic ratings are a scale used to measure the likelihood of a skincare or cosmetic product to cause comedones, which are clogged pores that can lead to acne. The scale typically ranges from 0 to 5, with 0 being non-comedogenic (unlikely to cause clogged pores) and 5 being highly comedogenic (very likely to cause clogged pores).

Understanding these ratings will help you find products suitable for your particular skin type. Let's dive in!

 

 

Here's a general breakdown of comedogenic ratings:

0: Non-comedogenic - These products are unlikely to clog pores and are suitable for most skin types, including sensitive or acne-prone skin.

1: Slightly comedogenic - Products with this rating have a low likelihood of clogging pores, but individuals with very sensitive or acne-prone skin may still experience issues.

2: Moderately comedogenic - Products with this rating have a moderate likelihood of clogging pores and may not be suitable for individuals with acne-prone skin.

3: Moderately to highly comedogenic - Products with this rating have a higher likelihood of clogging pores and are not recommended for acne-prone or sensitive skin.

4: Highly comedogenic - These products have a high likelihood of clogging pores and are not recommended for anyone with acne-prone or sensitive skin.

5: Extremely comedogenic - Products with this rating are highly likely to clog pores and can exacerbate acne or other skin issues.

Let's delve into oils in relation to comedogenic ratings, so you can decide which oils to include or avoid in facial skin care products.

0 rating:

1. Argan oil

2. Hemp seed oil

3. Jojoba Oil (technically a wax ester, but often referred to as an oil)

4. Red Raspberry Seed Oil

5. Rosehip Seed Oil

6. Safflower Oil

7. Squalane

8. Sunflower Seed Oil

9.Watermelon Seed Oil

Non-comedogenic butters:

1. Shea butter (unrefined)

2. Cocoa butter (unrefined)

These oils and butters are generally considered safe for use on the skin without clogging pores for most people. However, individual skin reactions may vary, so it's always a good idea to patch test new products and discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur.

1 rating: 

1. Abyssinian Oil

2. Apricot kernel oil

3. Blackcurrant Seed Oil

4. Blueberry Seed Oil

5. Camellia Oil

6. Castor Oil

7. Emu Oil

8. Grapeseed Oil

9. Hazelnut Oil

10. Kiwi Seed Oil

11. Meadowfoam Seed Oil

12. Oat Oil

13. Pomegranate Oil

Comedogenic rating 2 butters:

1. Mango butter

2. Coconut oil (This rating may vary depending on the source. Some consider it a 4 or even 5 due to its high comedogenic potential for some individuals, while others rate it lower.)

2 rating: 

Here are some oils and butters with a comedogenic rating of 2:

Comedogenic rating 2 oils:

1. Acai Berry Oil
2. Almond oil
3. Apricot kernel oil
4. Avocado oil
5. Borage Oil
6. Brazil Nut Oil
7. Cranberry Seed Oil
8. Macadamia Nut Oil
9. Olive Oil
10. Passionfruit Seed Oil
11. Papaya Seed Oil
12. Peach Kernel Oil
13. Plum Kernel Oil
14. Pumpkin Seed Oil
15. Rice Bran Oil

Comedogenic rating 2 butters:

1. Mango butter
2. Cocoa butter (unrefined)

3 rating: 

Oils and butters with a comedogenic rating of 3 have a moderate to high likelihood of clogging pores:

Comedogenic rating 3 oils:

1. Avocado Oil
2. Carrot Seed Oil
3. Cottonseed Oil
4. Evening Primrose Oil
5. Flaxseed Oil
6. Fractionated Coconut Oil
7. Sesame Oil
8. Soybean oil
9. Wheatgerm Oil

Comedogenic rating 3 butters:

1. Olive butter
2. Cottonseed butter

4 rating: 

Butters and oils with a comedogenic rating of 4 have a high likelihood of clogging pores:

Comedogenic rating 4 oils:

     1. Linseed oil (Flaxseed oil)

Comedogenic rating 4 butters:

1. Coconut oil (This rating may vary depending on the source. Some consider it a 4 or even 5 due to its high comedogenic potential for some individuals, while others rate it lower.)

5 rating: 

Here are some oils and butters with a comedogenic rating of 5, meaning they have an extremely high likelihood of clogging pores:

Comedogenic rating 5 oils:

1. Cocoa butter (refined)
2. Wheatgerm Oil

Comedogenic rating 5 butters:

1. None commonly listed as a 5.

Are you surprised to know that Castor Oil only has a comedogenic rating of 1??

Hopefully this article helps you in understanding what oils and butters you should embrace or steer clear of!

 

Did you know that Low Comedogenic oil and butter ratings usually have a high level of Linoleic acid?

High Comedogenic oils and butters have a high Oleic acid content.  What does this all mean?

Look out for our next blog which looks at Essential Fatty Acids and who should use or avoid certain oils and butters...intrigued?