A Guide to Comedogencity and Carrier Oils

In the beauty and natural industries, comedogenicity ratings have become increasingly prominent. Comedogenicity ratings are a way to categorize carrier oils and other products by their likelihood to clog pores (i.e. cause blackheads and acne). As many people turn from synthetic products to natural alternatives, it is important to understand which carrier oils, also known as base oils, work best for specific uses.

To make using our extensive line of carrier oils easier, we’ve outlined the basics on some of our favorites. Carrier oils should be part of every beauty routine and can be used alone or with EG’s single oils or synergy blends. From hair to nails, we’ve chosen our top picks for each!

General Guide For Comedogenicity:

0 - Will not clog pores

1 - Low

2 - Moderately low

3 - Moderate

4 - Fairly high

5 - High

Face Oil

Hemp Seed - 0

Why it’s great for the face: Not only does Hemp Seed have zero chance of clogging your pores, it can actually help treat acne. Hemp Seed also has an incredibly high content of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids which helps increase elasticity and speed up repair.

Botanical Name: Cannabis sativa

Extraction Method: Cold Pressed

Aroma: Hemp Seed oil has a slight nutty aroma that is very distinct. Although still faint, it is vastly more fragrant than other carrier oils

Consistency: Typical and characteristic of carrier oils

Color: Pale yellow to golden yellow

Absorption: Hemp Seed at average speed into skin, leaving a slight oil texture on the skin

Body Oil

Jojoba -  2

Why it’s great for skin: Healing and quickly absorbent, Jojoba is effective for all skin types. It can help prevent razor burn while it deeply moisturizes skin. Additionally, Jojoba can help relieve the effects of eczema and psoriasis.

Botanical Name: Simmondsia chinensis

Extraction Method: Cold Pressed

Aroma: Jojoba has a very subtle pleasant aroma

Consistency: Typical and characteristic of carrier oils

Color: Clear to golden yellow

Absorption: Jojoba creates a barrier but will leave a satiny finish

Hair Oil

Coconut - 4

Why it’s great for hair: One of the most widely used carrier oils, Coconut is packed with nutrients that help prevent abrasive hair damage. According to one study, prolonged use of Coconut carrier oil has led to healthy looking long hair. Some research suggest using Coconut oil on your hair can prompt faster hair growth.

Botanical Name: Cocos nucifera

Extraction Method: Expression/Separation

Aroma: Odorless

Consistency: Light

Color: Clear

Absorption: Non-greasy and absorbs easily into the skin

Massage Oil

Pomegranate Seed - 1

Why it’s great for massage: Beyond having a heavenly aroma, Pomegranate Seed can help fight free radicals as it soothes tired muscles and inflammation. Rich with vitamins C and K, Pomegranate Seed can help prevent hyper-pigmentation and promote collagen.

Botanical Name: Punica granatum

Extraction Method: Cold Pressed

Aroma: Subtly fruity and sweet

Consistency: Light

Color: Yellowish

Absorption: Non-greasy and absorbs easily into the skin

Nail Oil

Argan - 0

Why it’s great for nails: While it moisturizes your cuticles, Argan carrier oil helps strengthen and brighten your nails. Naturally thick with vitamin E and fatty acids, Argan may even reduce nail fungal infections.   

Botanical Name: Argania spinosa

Extraction Method: Cold Pressed

Aroma: Mild vegetable oil aroma, very neutral

Consistency: Light

Color: Pale yellow to yellow/amber

Absorption: Silky, non-greasy, absorbs easily into the skin