Is Avocado Oil Comedogenic?
Comedogenic rating: 2/5 — Low–moderate risk
Avocado Oil is a plant-derived carrier oil rich in fatty acids that condition and soften skin. In cosmetics it is typically found in facial oils, cleansing balms, body lotions, serums and hair products. Its INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name is Persea Gratissima Oil. On a label it may also appear as persea gratissima oil.
| Comedogenic rating | 2/5 — Low–moderate risk |
|---|---|
| Pore-clogging | Low–moderate |
| Fungal-acne safe | No — potential trigger |
| Category | Carrier oil |
| INCI name | Persea Gratissima Oil |
| Also known as | persea gratissima oil |
Is Avocado Oil comedogenic?
Avocado Oil carries a low-to-moderate comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5. Most people tolerate it well and it is unlikely to be a primary cause of breakouts. If your skin is extremely acne-prone, keep a light eye on it in leave-on products used around the T-zone, but for most users it is not a major concern.
Does Avocado Oil cause fungal acne?
Separately from pore-clogging, Avocado Oil is considered a potential fungal-acne (Malassezia) trigger. Fungal acne — properly called Malassezia folliculitis — appears as small, uniform, sometimes itchy bumps, and is fed by certain oils, fatty acids and esters. This is a different problem from comedogenic clogging, so if you are prone to fungal acne you may want to avoid Avocado Oil even when its comedogenic rating is low.
Should you use Avocado Oil if you're acne-prone?
Avocado Oil is fine for normal, dry and combination skin. Very acne-prone users should introduce it slowly and watch for congestion, but it does not need to be avoided outright. The main caveat is fungal acne, which Avocado Oil may still aggravate.
Safer alternatives to Avocado Oil
How Avocado Oil compares to other carrier oils
| Ingredient | Rating | Pore-clogging |
|---|---|---|
| Avocado Oil | 2/5 | Low–moderate |
| Argan Oil | 0/5 | Unlikely |
| Hemp Seed Oil | 0/5 | Unlikely |
| Safflower Oil | 0/5 | Unlikely |
| Sunflower Seed Oil | 0/5 | Unlikely |
| Castor Oil | 1/5 | Unlikely |
| Grapeseed Oil | 1/5 | Unlikely |
Frequently asked questions
Is Avocado Oil comedogenic?
Avocado Oil carries a low-to-moderate comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5. Most people tolerate it well and it is unlikely to be a primary cause of breakouts. If your skin is extremely acne-prone, keep a light eye on it in leave-on products used around the T-zone, but for most users it is not a major concern.
Does Avocado Oil cause fungal acne?
Separately from pore-clogging, Avocado Oil is considered a potential fungal-acne (Malassezia) trigger. Fungal acne — properly called Malassezia folliculitis — appears as small, uniform, sometimes itchy bumps, and is fed by certain oils, fatty acids and esters. This is a different problem from comedogenic clogging, so if you are prone to fungal acne you may want to avoid Avocado Oil even when its comedogenic rating is low.
Is Avocado Oil safe for acne-prone skin?
Avocado Oil is fine for normal, dry and combination skin. Very acne-prone users should introduce it slowly and watch for congestion, but it does not need to be avoided outright. The main caveat is fungal acne, which Avocado Oil may still aggravate.
What products is Avocado Oil found in?
Avocado Oil is a plant-derived carrier oil rich in fatty acids that condition and soften skin, and is commonly found in facial oils, cleansing balms, body lotions, serums and hair products.
What can I use instead of Avocado Oil?
Lower-risk swaps include Squalane, all of which rate lower on the comedogenic scale.
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