15 Best Non-Comedogenic Oils for Face

If you have oily, acne-prone, or even sensitive skin, chances are you’ve been told to avoid all oils on your face.

Luckily, not all oils are created equal! Oils that are noncomedogenic not only moisturize well but also balance skin oil production.

What’s more, these lightweight, easily absorbing oils also nourish and protect your skin against environmental stresses.

Unlike their comedogenic counterparts, non-comedogenic oils won’t clog your pores or contribute to breakouts, making them a worthy upgrade to your beauty routine.

If you’re looking for some good options for your oil cleansing regimen or just need a new facial moisturizer for less, we’ve rounded up the best non-comedogenic oils for the face.

We’ll discuss these oils and how they’re good for your skin.

Before we get to these oils, let us explain the concept of being noncomedogenic.

What does non-comedogenic mean?

Being non-comedogenic means that a product or ingredient is unlikely to clog pores. This is especially helpful for those with oily or acne-prone skin, as clogged pores contribute to pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.

When referring to oils, non-comedogenic means they’re non-greasy and absorb well into the skin without leaving a heavy residue, hence least likely to clog pores.

To determine how likely an ingredient can clog pores, a rating system called a non-comedogenic scale is used.

This scale typically ranges from 0 to 5, with:

• 0: won’t clog pores
• 1: very low chances of clogging pores
• 2: moderately low chances
• 3: moderate chances of clogging pores
• 4: fairly high chances
• 5: highest chances of clogging pores

Lower comedogenic ratings, 0-2, are safe for most skin types. Ratings of 2-3 are moderately safe. However, they might clog pores for some skin types. Oils with higher numbers, 4-5, tend to clog pores the most.

So, for starters, it’s a good idea to pick an oil with a rating of 0-1.

Now, on to the oils.

Calendula oil

This oil is a new favorite in the beauty world, extracted from vibrant marigold petals.
Calendula oil contains a high amount of triterpene saponins, which relieve irritation and redness and soothe skin. Those with acne-prone skin will find this oil incredibly gentle, hydrating, and soothing.

Additionally, it’s known to fight environmental skin stressors, minimize wrinkles, and stimulate collagen production.

However, you should avoid calendula oil if you are pregnant or trying to conceive since this oil can interfere with conception.

Texture: light

Absorption rate: absorbs fast

Rating: 1 on the comedogenic scale, very unlikely to clog pores. This is ideal for skin that is dry, sensitive, and aging.

We recommend: AROMATIKA Calendula Oil

Tamanu oil

Tamanu oil is revered for calming and healing acne-prone, irritated, or damaged skin because it is highly anti-inflammatory. Also, it’s super moisturizing.

Loaded with antioxidants and fatty oils, it naturally boosts skin renewal and firmness, ultimately slowing down the skin aging process.

This versatile oil effectively reduces hyperpigmentation, fades dark spots, scars, and stretch marks, and makes skin look evenly toned.

Texture: thick

Absorption rate: takes a bit to absorb

Rating: Tamanu oil has a rating of 2, so it’s not too likely to clog your pores. All skin types can use it.

We recommend: Pur360 Tamanu Oil

Jojoba oil

Similar in composition to the skin’s natural oils, jojoba oil helps balance the skin’s pH, hydrate the skin, and protect the skin barrier. This similarity allows for effortless absorption without clogging pores.

Jojoba oil is full of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant for the skin. This simply means it can defend you from oxidative stress caused by everyday environmental stressors and other toxins.

Since it’s anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory, it works on bacteria causing acne. It’s found to be hypoallergenic, too, making it great for those with skin allergies.

Added bonus: the oil suppresses excess oil production on oily skin.

Texture: light

Absorption rate: quick-absorbing

Rating: Jojoba oil has a rating of 2, so it is moderately unlikely to clog pores. All skin types can use it.

We recommend: Now Solutions Organic Jojoba Oil

Argan oil

You’ll find argan oil in a lot of skin and hair products. High in oleic acid, Vitamins E and A, and other fatty acids, it offers luxurious nourishment.

Argan oil moisturizes, fights acne-causing bacteria, and balances sebum production at the same time. This triple action helps hydrate even the most irritated, red or inflamed skin.

A study proved that argan oil’s antioxidants help fight sun damage, preventing sunburns and hyperpigmentation. This can even lower the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, over time.
Moreover, because of its antioxidant power, it is ideal for anti-aging, particularly for improving skin elasticity.

Texture: a little thick

Absorption rate: moderately absorbs

Rating: Argan oil has a rating of 0, meaning it won’t clog your pores. Any skin type can use it.

We recommend: Majestic Pure Moroccan Argan Oil

Baobab oil

Baobab oil is brimming with vitamins A, D, E, and F, antioxidants, and fatty acids.

This multipurpose oil has tons of skin benefits that prevent water loss, keep the skin moist, and protect it against dryness. Antioxidants in it do a good job of repairing sun and environmental damage.

Baobab oil’s antiinflammatory properties calm irritated skin, while vitamins C and D strengthen collagen to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. You’ll love the oil if you want balanced hydration without feeling greasy.

Texture: lightweight

Absorption rate: takes a while to absorb

Rating: Rated 2, so it’s mildly comedogenic. It suits almost all skin types except oily or acne-prone skin.

We recommend: Renewalize Certified Organic Baobab Oil

Prickly pear oil

Most of us haven’t heard of prickly pear oil. The seeds of this yummy fruit hold a treasure trove of a variety of fatty acids, phenols, vitamin E, phytosterols, and antioxidants.

Did you know prickly pear oil has 5x more vitamin E than argan oil? It boosts hydration and softens skin, leaving it glowing. As an antioxidant and antibacterial combo, it can potentially prevent skin damage and breakouts in the future.

Regularly applying prickly pear oil also soothes inflammation and puffiness, delays the appearance of skin aging, and evens out discoloration.

Texture: light, silky

Absorption rate: readily absorbs

Rating: With a rating of 1-2, it has little chance of clogging pores. It suits almost all skin types, especially oily, mature skin.

We recommend: Fatima’s Garden Prickly Pear Seed Oil

Blueberry oil

New to the skincare market, blueberry seed oil is getting lots of love for its antioxidant content. For dry, aging skin, it’s great.

The oil contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which hydrate skin and lock in moisture.

Plus, its potent antioxidant powers help defend skin from damage caused by UVA, UVB, and even blue light exposure (yes, that includes your phone and computer!). As skin cells regenerate, dryness goes away, and elasticity improves. Together, all these benefits help fight skin aging.

Texture: lightweight

Absorption rate: absorbs quickly

Rating: Rated at 0-1 on the comedogenic scale, it won’t clog pores at all. Suits every skin type, especially mature skin.

We recommend: Naturevibe Botanicals Blueberry Oil

Benefits of Using Non-Comedogenic Oils

• Since they’re less likely to clog pores, the risk of blackheads, whiteheads, and acne outbreaks goes down.
• Hydrates skin at a deeper level without leaving the skin too oily or greasy.
• Most non-comedogenic oils are jam-packed with healthy fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins that nourish and protect.
• Due to their gentle nature, these oils work for almost all skin types and are often well-tolerated by those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
• Being versatile, you can use them in many ways, such as a moisturizer, cleanser, or carrier oil for essential oils.

Here’s how to use them

Oil cleanse: Oil cleansing technique involves using your picked oil to dissolve dirt, makeup, and excess sebum from your skin. For the first cleanse, massage a small amount of oil into dry skin for 1-2 minutes with clean fingertips. For the second cleansing round, wash your face using a gentle cleanser and remove any remaining oil and debris. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Moisturize: After applying your serum, put a few drops of oil on damp skin and gently rub in circular motions until it fully absorbs. Use it daily or whenever the skin needs hydration.

Spot treatment: Dab a small amount of oil directly to your desired area. Allow it to work overnight to calm inflammation and minimize the look of blemishes.

DIY face mask: Add your favorite non-clogging oil to your face mask recipes to get that extra nourishment and hydration.

What oils to avoid…

These oils have a high comedogenic rating, meaning they can very likely clog pores:

• Wheatgerm oil: 5
• Soybean oil: 4-5
• Coconut oil/butter: 4
• Cocoa butter: 4
• Palm oil: 4
• Flax seed oil: 4
• Marula oil: 3-4
• Carrot seed oil: 3-4
• Moringa oil: 3-4
• Cottonseed oil: 3

Most skin types can use oils with a comedogenic rating of up to 2.

A comedogenic rating between 2-3 is also safe, but the pores may clog for some.

Oils rated 4-5 have a tendency to cause acne and clog pores, although they might benefit extremely dry skin.

Most non-comedogenic oils contain fatty acids like oleic and linoleic acids, as well as others that moisturize the skin without clogging pores. For oily skin, it’s best to avoid oils high in oleic acid since they may be pore-clogging.

The takeaway

Our listed non-comedogenic face oils work well for most skin types! They won’t clog pores and are less likely to cause acne, making them great for sensitive skin, too.

Hopefully, you now have some insight into what oil might be right for your skin needs and concerns. Try one or two from our list—they’ll do wonders if you use them right!