Non-comedogenic Oils: Effects On Oily Skin
Non-comedogenic oils are a good option to hydrate and care for the skin without the risk of causing comedones or excess oil. This time we detail some options.
Non-comedogenic oils are those that have the ability to keep the skin free of pimples or any form of acne. They are considered “non-comedogenic” because they are rated below two in Dr. Fulton’s 1989 scientific study ” Comedogenicity and Irritation of Commonly Used Ingredients in Skin Care Products . “
The study established a numerical rating from 0 to 5, a measure that determined how pores grew after individual cosmetic ingredients were applied to the skin. Thus, 0 has a zero probability of clogging the pores, class 1 a low probability of causing it and class 2 a moderately low possibility.
From class 3 it begins to be considered comedogenic, since its probability of obstruction is moderate. Types 4 and 5 are high class, as they are almost certain to detonate the obstruction. So are there non-comedogenic oils? We invite you to discover it.
What are non-comedogenic products?
Non-comedogenic oils are those that do not cause acne when applied. They are below class 2. Comedogenic grades are assessed by going through various processes. The first is to delimit an area of the skin; then, a defined quantity of the substance to be analyzed is deposited.
The application should be repeated 3 times a day, for 4 weeks. Also, it is necessary to observe if there is obstruction of the pores or the appearance of comedones. Therefore, a non-comedogenic product, according to Alcalde M, is a cosmetic that has shown in the analyzes that its application does not produce comedones.
Effects of non-comedogenic oils on oily skin
Oily skin is one that has excess sebum in different areas, which can appear brighter. It also has large pores and an uneven skin texture. A common problem among people with this type of skin is acne.
However, it is also common to suffer infections, inflammation and other unwanted effects associated with excess fat. Is it good to use non-comedogenic oils? Let’s see its main effects.
Sebum regulation
The sebaceous glands are located in the dermis. The function of sebum is to lubricate and protect the surface of the skin. Normally, adults produce 1 mg per 10 cm of skin every 3 hours. When there is hypersecretion, enlarged pores and acne can appear.
Fortunately, as an article published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology explains , there are oils with non-comedogenic characteristics that reduce excess fat. Thus, the skin is kept clean and in optimal condition.
Acne free
Acne is a skin disorder where the hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead cells. Therefore, comedones, blackheads and pimples appear. As a result of overproduction of sebum, it is a common problem with oily skin. However, as we have discussed, non-comedogenic oils help regulate it.
Hydration
Good hydration helps keep water levels balanced. Thus, these oils strengthen the skin’s protective barrier. In addition, they prevent dryness and aging.
Antiseptics and antifungals
Antiseptic and antifungal oils are capable of destroying microorganisms or reducing their growth. The main skin infections are cellulitis and staph infections. Those caused by fungi cause athlete’s foot and yeast infections.
In this sense, these types of products become adjuvants against microorganisms that affect the skin. Its regular application cleanses the pores and reduces the presence of pathogens on their surface.
List of non-comedogenic oils
The oils should be used according to the needs of each type of skin. However, it is always best to test before applying them in full. This is done by applying a little oil to the inside of the wrist. If after a few hours there are no unfavorable reactions, it can be applied without problem.
Sunflower seed oil
Sunflower seed oil is a healthy type of vegetable oil that can be used in cosmetics. Contains fatty acids and vitamin E that help keep skin healthy and blemish-free. Its regular application seems to reduce the presence of comedones. Still, evidence to support it is lacking.
Argan oil
Argan oil is an edible oil obtained from the ripe seeds of the argan tree berry. It is suitable for various types of skin. Its comedogenic rating is 0. Therefore, it can be used to repair the skin barrier and reduce acne.
Hemp seed oil
Hemp oil is good for most skin types. It is effective for sensitive and oily skin due to its moisturizing properties. Plus, it helps reduce inflammation and redness that acne causes.
Rosehip oil
Rosehip oil is recommended for oily skin. It does not cause clogging in the pores and, on the contrary, favors their cleaning. Among other things, its antioxidant and healthy fat content appears to help prevent aging and stretch marks.
Non-comedogenic oils complement the beauty routine
The oils with non-comedogenic properties are ideal to complement the beauty routine, especially when the skin is oily. They are not aggressive and provide other benefits such as hydration and prevention of premature aging.
In any case, they should not be a first-choice treatment when it comes to combating excess sebum on the skin and pimples. To do this, it is best to consult a dermatology professional.
