PROPERTIES AND COMODOGENIC RATINGS  OF CARRIER OILS AND NATURAL BUTTERS

Please note:

This document is a work in progress due to the immense volume of information required to complete this list. I will update it as and when I research and receive additional information. In the meantime, it serves to give you some information on carrier oils and natural butters. I developed this list to help you choose the right oil or butter for your recipes and needs. Thank you for your patience.

A carrier oil or carrier butter, also known as a vegetable or base oil, is used in aromatherapy to dilute essential oils. They ‘carry’ the essential oils and dilute them. It is important to dilute essential oils before we use them on our skin because essential oils are super concentrated and will burn or irritate the skin if applied in undiluted form.

Some facts:

• Carrier oils and butters are plant-based because they are extracted from the seeds, nuts or kernels.

• A carrier oil has little to no scent.

• They will not evaporate like essential oils.

• Carrier oils vary in viscosity. Some are thicker than others which may determine how you use it or which recipes you add them to.

What is a comedogenic rating?

It is a rating between 1 and 5. A rating of 1 indicates that the oil is less likely to clog your pores and a comedogenic rating of 5 indicates the oil is more likely to clog pores.

All oils, both animal and plant, contain essential fatty acids. The comedogenic rating of any oil or butter is determined by the content ratio of linoleic and oleic acid. Typically, the higher the linoleic acid content the lower the comedogenic rating will be. The higher the oleic acid content, the higher the comedogenic rating will be.

Comedogenic rating of 1: Only a slight chance that an oil or butter will clog your pores.

Comedogenic rating of 2: Will only clog pores for a few people.

Comedogenic rating of 3: Depending on your skin type you may break out but most folks will be fine.

Comedogenic rating of 4: Most folks will experience a breakout or clogged pores.

Comedogenic rating of 5: Very few skin types can tolerate these oils and a breakout is almost guaranteed.

Essential Fatty Acids:

I will list the essential fatty acid content for every oil. This is a work in progress since there are so many oils on the market these days. Each fatty acid has a different skincare benefit and will help you determine which oil is best for your skin type. So, if you are looking for a carrier oil that has a low comedogenic rate then look for one that is high in a fatty acid with a low rating.

ALA – Alpha Linoleic Acid

Omega 3 fatty acid

Comedogenic rating of 4

Arachidic Acid

Comedogenic rating of 1

Behenic Acid

Comedogenic rating of 2

Capric Acid – also known as Decanoic Acid

Comedogenic rating of 2

Caprylic Acid – also known as Octanoic Acid

Comedogenic rating of 2

Eicosenoic Acid

Omega 9 fatty acid

Comedogenic rating of 2

Erucic Acid

Omega 9 fatty acid

Comedogenic rating is unknown

Gla – Gamma Linoleic Acid

Omega 6 fatty acid

Comedogenic rating is unknown

Lauric Acid

Comedogenic rating of 4

Myristic Acid

Comedogenic rating of 3

Palmitic Acid

Comedogenic rating of 2

Palmitoleic Acid

Omega 7 fatty acid

Comedogenic rating is unknown

Punicic Acid

Omega 5 fatty acid

Comedogenic rating of 1

Ricinoleic Acid

Omega 9 fatty acid

Comedogenic rating of 1

Stearic Acid

Comedogenic rating of 2

Color:

The color of your carrier oil is important. If an oil is supposed to be golden yellow for instance, but when you pour it you find it is darker or lighter, then it may have been mixed with another cheaper oil. This is an adulterated oil and is not pure.  Alternatively, it could be rancid and you should throw it away.

Caution:

Use your senses. If an oil or butter is the wrong color or smells funky, then you should question the purity of the product.

Anyone with a nut allergy should avoid nut oils such as walnut, sweet almond, peanut, macadamia nut, pecan, brazil nut, hazelnut etc.

Anyone with a cocoa allergy should avoid cocoa butter.

Anyone with a latex allergy should avoid shea butter.

Price:

When an oil is super expensive, it means that the yield ratio between raw material and the final product (oil or butter) is high. If you decide to buy the more expensive oils, it’s smarter to use them in serums than in something like soap. You will get greater skin benefit per dollar from the serum. A good example is prickly pear seed oil. It’s crazy expensive because it takes 1 ton of prickly pear cactus seeds to produce just 1 liter (roughly 1 quart) of oil.

Some of the oils or butters listed below are hard to find but the more you know the better right?

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Abyssinian Seed Oil – see Crambe Oil

Extracted from:              Seeds of the Crambe Abyssinica 

Plant genus:                    Crambe ​

Contains:                         Omega 9.

Used for:                          Hydrating normal to oily skin

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity:                         Thin and absorbs well

Color:                               Pale Beige

Caution:                          The high percentage of erucic acid means that it is not suitable for human consumption but is used in cosmetics. 

Shelf life:                         2 years if you keep it in a cool dark place

Scent:                               Almost scentless

Note:                                A good alternative to Argan Oil. It’s not easy to find though. Abyssinian is closely related to rapeseed and mustard.

Acai Berry Oil – see Assai Palm Oil

Extracted from:             Acai Berry

Plant genus:                   Euterpe

Contains:                        Omega 3, 6, and 9, Vitamin B1, B2, B3, C, and E, calcium, and potassium

Used for:                          Moisturizing dry, mature, irritated skin, anti-aging,          inflammation. It has anti-oxidant properties.

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Rich oil but absorbs fairly well

Color:                               Yellow

Caution:   

Shelf life:                         2 years if you keep it in a cool dark place

Scent:                               Woody

Note:

Linoleic acid–45%

Oleic acid– 55%

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Almond Oil (Sweet)

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Extracted from:              Almonds

Plant genus:                    Amygdalus

Contains:                         Vitamin D, E

Used for:                          Dry, irritated, sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, anti-inflammatory protection.

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                        Medium and absorbs well

Color:                              Pale yellow

Caution:                          Do not use if you have a nut allergy

Shelf life:                         18  months if you store it in a cool, dry, dark place

Scent:                               Light, sweet, nutty

Note:                                Good alternatives are safflower, jojoba, argan, olive, apricot kernel, and sunflower oils. If you use it as a massage oil, it could stain your sheets.

Linoleic acid– 20-30%
Linolenic acid– 0.4%
Oleic acid– 62-86%

Aloe Vera

Extracted from:              Fleshy leaves of the aloe vera plant

Plant genus:                     Aloe

Contains:

Used for:                           Healing, inflammation, anti-septic

Comedogenic rating:    

Viscosity:                         Pure aloe very leaf gel is watery. The jellies are thicker

Color:                               Clear

Caution:      

Shelf life:                         6 months – 1 year

Scent:                               Very light

Note:                                It is not an oil but is used in a number of homemade products such as hand sanitizer and face wipes. Don’t buy the green gel stuff at the pharmacy. It contains a bunch of additives. Rather get the concentrated powder and add your own distilled water to make your aloe vera. It is better to use aloe vera jelly because it contains a hardening agent that will allow essential oils to stay suspended in it. Natural aloe vera has high water content and essential oils won’t blend well with water.

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Amaranth Oil

Extracted from:             Amaranth grain

Plant genus:                   Amaranthus

Contains:                        High in Squalene ( a lipid produced in the skin) and Vitamin E

Used for:                         Anti-aging and great for dry skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a good option for skin conditions like psoriasis. Helps with scarring.

Comedogenic rating:    3

Viscosity:                         Light and silky and absorbs fairly quickly

Color:                               Deep yellow

Caution:

Shelf life: 

Scent:                              Light like a vegetable oil

Note:                               Amaranth has one of the highest concentrations of plant-based squalane. As we age our bodies produce less and less squalane which is (in part) why our skins dry out as we age. Eating amaranth grains is a great way to benefit from all the properties that the grain offers. It is high in protein, fiber, vitamin E, and squalane. Squalane is also found in rice bran, olives, and wheatgerm.

Linoleic acid– 50%
Palmitic acid- 19%
Oleic acid– 23%

Stearic acid- 3%

Amla Oil – see Indian Gooseberry Oil

Extracted from:             The fruit of the Indian gooseberry tree

Plant genus:                    Phyllanthus

Contains:                         Vitamin C

Used for:                           It’s used as an anti-aging agent in skincare.  It is often applied to hair and scalp to stimulate hair growth and combat dandruff. It is also good to treat and nourish facial hair.

Comedogenic rating:    Will depend on the oil the fruit is infused in

Viscosity:                         Medium

Color:                               Green hue

Caution:                           Some folks are allergic to gooseberries and if the oil is applied to their skin they can develop contact dermatitis. Amla oil is always blended with another oil like argan, sesame, or jojoba. Make sure that you are not allergic to any of the oils. First, do a spot test on your skin before using this oil.

Shelf life:                         Up to 3 years at room temperature. However, since amla is infused in another oil, you need to check on the shelf life of that oil too.

Scent:                               Can be strong and musky

Note:                                 Don’t confuse regular gooseberries with Indian gooseberries. The Indian gooseberry is rarely sold as fresh fruit but you can buy the dried fruit or powder. You can make your own amla oil using the dried fruit or powder. When you buy the powder, make sure that you see Phyllanthus Emblica printed on the label for purity.

Andiroba Seed Oil 

Extracted from:               Andiroba Nut

Plant genus:                     Carapa

Contains:                          

Used for:                           Dry, irritated, acne-prone skin, also used to treat insect bites and small cuts and abrasions. Anti-inflammatory properties are useful when treating dry skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, joint pain, and swelling.

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Light oil that is semi-solid at room temperature. Absorbs well into the skin. 

Color:                               Bright gold

Caution:

Shelf life:                         Up to 2 years but it must be kept in a cool dry place

Scent:                               Can have a slight musky smell but is mostly odorless

Note:                                It is sometimes called crabwood and often mistaken for mahogany oil. The Andiroba tree belongs to the same family as the mahogany but it is not the same tree. 

Linoleic acid– 11%
Palmitic acid- 28%
Oleic acid– 50%

Apricot Kernel Oil

Extracted from:              Apricot Seeds (Kernels)

Plant genus:                    Prunus

Contains:                         Vitamin A and E

Used for:                          Dry, sensitive, acne-prone skin. It’s a really nice massage oil. Since it is so emollient, it is a great oil for mature skin. 

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Light to medium and absorbs into the skin quickly

Color:                               Pale yellow

Caution:                           It’s sensitive to heat and light. Store it in the fridge

Shelf life:                         1 year if you keep it in a cool dark place

Scent:                               Faint to light, but can have a nutty almond scent

Note:                                Depending on where you live, it is fairly inexpensive. It is similar to sweet almond oil but it’s lighter.

Linoleic acid– 34%
Linolenic acid– less than 1%
Oleic acid– 60 - 70%

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Argan Oil

Extracted from:             Argan tree nut kernels

Plant genus:                   Argania

Contains:                        Vitamin E

Used for:                          All skin types. It’s great for scarring. Excellent for its anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties.

Comedogenic rating:    0

Viscosity:                         Light and silky, absorbs well

Color:                               Golden yellow

Caution:

Shelf life:                         2 + years if you keep it in a cool dark place

Scent:                               Light and nutty

Note:                                 It’s a bit expensive but it’s awesome in serums.

Arnica Oil

Extracted from:             Arnica flower

Plant genus:                    Arnica

Contains:

Used for:                          Pain relief, bruise care, and reducing swelling

Comedogenic rating:    2 – once diluted in olive oil

Viscosity:

Color:

Caution:                          Only use in diluted form because it’s very concentrated. Dilute with another carrier oil like grapeseed or olive oil. A 30:70 ratio is recommended

Shelf life:                         Can last for years in a cool dry place. Avoid humid places in the home such as the bathroom

Scent:

Note:

Assai Palm Oil – also known as Acai Berry Oil

Avocado Oil

Extracted from:             Pulp of the fruit

Plant genus:                   Persea

Contains:                        Vitamin A, B and E, potassium, and lecithin

Used for:                         Very dry sensitive acne-prone skin. It’s beneficial for those suffering from psoriasis or eczema because it is moisturizing and anti-inflammatory.

Comedogenic rating:    3

Viscosity:                         It’s one of the thicker, heavier carrier oils

Color:                               Gold or deep olive green

Caution:                           Does not absorb into the skin but hydrates the skin

Shelf life:                          6 to 12 months on the shelf but if you keep it in a cool dry place it could last up to 2 years. I keep mine in the refrigerator.

Scent:                                Light, sweet and nutty

Note:                                  It can sometimes look cloudy at room temperature. If you use it directly, it can be sticky on the skin. A good alternative is olive oil or rice bran oil. The green color can turn creams or soaps a shade of green.

Linoleic acid– 15%
Linolenic acid– less than 5%
Oleic acid– 65%

Babassu Oil

Extracted from:              Babassu Palm Kernel

Plant genus:                     It has two botanical names - Orbignya and Attalea

Contains:                          Vitamin E

Used for:                           As a moisturizing, anti-microbial, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory cream for dry skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and acne-prone skin. 

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Solid white fat at room temperature but is light and melts on contact with the skin. Absorbs well.

Color:                               Light but slightly more yellow than coconut oil

Caution:                           It could cause breakouts if you have oily skin. Babassu oil has a lower melting point than coconut oil. So if you are substituting it for coconut oil, you might want to add a little beeswax to to keep your salve or balm solid. 

Since babassu oil is so similar to coconut oil it may cause the same irritation as coconut oil for those with coconut allergies. 

The melting point for babassu oil is 71*F (22*C) 

The melting point for coconut oil is 78* F (25*C)

Read more about the differences between babassu oil and coconut oil here.

Shelf life:                         2 years if you keep it in a cool dry place

Scent:                               Light and slightly nutty

Note:                                It is native to South America where the people have used it for cooking, medicine, and skincare. Locally it is called Cusi,

Caprylic acid​ - 4%

Capric acid - 4%

Lauric acid– 42%
Linoleic acid– 4%
Myristic acid– 17% 
Oleic acid– 16%

Palmitic - 10%

Stearic - 4%

Baobab Oil

Extracted from:              Seeds

Plant genus:                    Adansonia

Contains:                         Vitamins A, C, D, and E

Used for:                          Combination skin and rough patches on the body. Supports the skin’s elasticity and collagen health. Also great for taming frizzy hair. It can soothe cuts and burns.

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         It is one of the thicker, stickier oils but absorbs quickly.

Color:                               Golden yellow

Caution: 

Shelf life:                          2 years

Scent: 

Note:                                 These trees are native to eastern and southern Africa and can live for up to 6000 years.

Linoleic acid– 24-34%
Linolenic acid– 1-3%
Oleic acid– 30-40%

Palmitic acid - 25%

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Barbary Fig Oil – see  Prickly Pear Seed Oil

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Behen Oil – see Moringa Oil. Also known as Ben Oil

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Blackberry Seed Oil

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Extracted from:              Seeds

Plant genus:                    Rubus

Contains:                         Vitamin C and E

Used for:                          It is useful in treating inflamed skin

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity:                         Light and absorbs well

Color:                               Dark green to yellow

Caution: 

Shelf life:                        2 years  

Scent:                              Mild sweet and slightly nutty

Note:                                The high vitamin C content makes a good anti-aging oil that can also help to soothe sensitive skins.

Linoleic acid– 60%
Alpha-Linolenic acid– 15%

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Black Cumin Seed Oil – see Kalonji Oil, Black Caraway Oil, Nigella Sativa Oil, or Black Seed Oil

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Extracted from:             Seeds of the Nigella Sativa plant

Plant genus:                    Nigella

Contains:                        Anti-oxidants, ca

Used for:                         It is useful to treat dry inflamed skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, irritated skin. As a massage oil, it can help alleviate joint pain.

Comedogenic rating:    2 

Viscosity:                         Medium and absorbs well.

Color:                               Light amber to a golden brown

Caution:                           Can be too greasy for oily skin types

Shelf life:                          2 years. It will last longer if you keep it in the refrigerator.

Scent:                               Peppery, earthy, woody

Note:                                 If you are not keen on the smell you could substitute it for evening primrose oil. Black cumin seed oil is also known as black cumin seed oil, black caraway oil, onion seed oil, coriander seed oil but it has no relation to any of these spices. 

Linoleic acid– 56%
Linolenic acid– 0.24%
Oleic acid– 21.7%

Black Currant Seed Oil

Extracted from:             Seeds of a black current

Plant genus:                   Ribes

Contains:                        Omega 3, Vitamin C

Used for:                         Helps to treat and calm dry, sensitive skin and inflamed skin conditions such as rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, and acne-prone skin. The vitamin C content in this oil helps to support collagen and skin regeneration which makes it a great anti-aging agent.  

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity:                        Thick and heavy and absorbs slowly

Color:                              Yellow to green

Caution:

Shelf life:                        2 years if you keep it in a cool dry place. It is best kept in the refrigerator.

Scent:                             Fishy

Note:                               Since the smell is so distinct, you might want to mix it with another essential oil and add some essential oils to mask it. You could use evening primrose or borage oil instead. To boost its skin absorption, you could try to blend it with argan or pomegranate seed oil.

Linoleic acid– 41%
Alpha-Linolenic acid– 17%
Gamma-Linolenic acid– 14%
Oleic acid– 15%

Black Rasberry Seed Oil

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Extracted from:

Plant genus:

Contains:  

Used for:                           Mature, dry, sensitive skin

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Non-greasy

Color: 

Caution: 

Shelf life: 

Scent:

Note: 

Linoleic acid– 48%
Linolenic acid– 28%
Oleic acid– 10.5-18%

Blackberry Seed Oil

Extracted from:

Contains:                        Essential fatty acids

Best for:                          Anti-aging with blotchiness and large pores. Best for oily skin

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity:

Color:

Caution:

Shelf life:

Scent:

Note:

Linoleic acid– 62.7%
Linolenic acid– 15%
Oleic acid– 15.1%

Blueberry Seed Oil

Extracted from:             Blueberry seeds

Plant genus:                    Vaccinium

Contains:                         High in antioxidants and Vitamin E

Used for:                          Anti-aging, redness, inflammation, mature, dry, dehydrated skin, and helps to heal scarring.

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity:                        Light and bsorbs quickly

Color:                              Pale green

Caution:

Shelf life:                         1 year

Scent:                              Faint blueberry scent

Note:

Linoleic acid– 44%
Alpha-Linolenic acid– 25%
Oleic acid– 23%

Borage Oil

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Extracted from:             Seeds of the borage flower

Plant genus:                    Borago

Contains:                        Omega 6 fatty acids

Used for:                         To treat dry, damaged, inflamed skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. It's a great anti-aging oil for sensitive skin.

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                        Thin to medium and absorbs slowly

Color:                              Light yellow

Caution:                          This oil is delicate and can go rancid quickly. Can leave an oily feel on the skin

Shelf life:                         6 months but if you keep it in the fridge it could last up to 1 year. It will go rancid quickly if you don’t refrigerate it.

Scent:                              Light and sweet

Note:                                Evening primrose oil is a good alternative or you can blend it with evening primrose oil to mask some of the scent. To boost its skin absorption, you could try to blend it with argan or pomegranate seed oil. It can be a little expensive.

Palmitic acid – 9-12%
Linoleic acid– 39%
Gamma Linolenic acid– 25%
Oleic acid– 18%

Alpha-Linolenic Acid – less than 1%

Brazil Nut Oil

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Extracted from:              Brazil nut​

Plant genus:                    Bertholletia

Contains:                         Vitamin A, B, C, and E 

Used for:                          To help treat hyperpigmentation, dry mature skin

Viscosity:                         Semi-solid and thick but is liquified quickly. kAbsorbs easily

Color:                               Light yellow

Caution:                           Do not use if you have a nut allergy

Shelf life:                         2 years

Scent:                               Slight nutty scent

Note:                                 It has a similar fatty acid profile to baobab oil but the high concentration of selenium makes this an excellent anti-aging oil.

Linoleic acid– 25-40%
Linolenic acid– 0.1%
Oleic acid– 35-50%

Broccoli Seed Oil

​

Extracted from:             Broccoli seeds

Contains:  

Best for:                          Great for hair and lip balms, especially for dry curly hair.

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity:                         Non-greasy

Color:                               Greenish gold

Caution:                           Has a pungent smell and will leave an oily film on the skin.

Shelf life:                         18 months if it’s stored in a cool dry place.

Scent:                               Herbaceous

Note:                                Consider this as an ingredient in a hair oil recipe

Linoleic acid– 11.2%
Linolenic acid– 11%
Oleic acid– 13.3%

Buriti Oil – also known as Moriche Palm Oil

​

Extracted from:  

Contains:                         Carotenoids and essential fatty acids

Best for:                           Dry, irritated skin, anti-aging

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:

Color:                               Red-orange

Caution:                          Great for dry skin but may clog pores of oily skin

Shelf life: 

Scent: 

Note:

Palmitic acid – 8-15%
Stearic acid – 1-5%
Oleic acid – 45-65%
Linoleic acid – 10-25%

Cacay Oil

Extracted from:              Cacay Nut

Contains:                         Retinol, vitamin E

Best for:                           Inflammation, hyperpigmentation, scarring

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Absorbs quickly

Color:

Caution:

Shelf life:

Scent:

Note:

Palmitic acid – 9%
Stearic acid – 3%
Oleic acid – 13%
Linoleic acid – 68%-

​

Cactus Pear Oil – also known as Prickly Pear Seed Oil, Barbary Fig Oil and Indian Fig Oil

Calophyllum Oil – also known as Tamanu Oil

Calendula Oil

Extracted from:             Marigold flowers

Contains: 

Best for:                           Decreasing redness,  hyperpigmentation, bruising and dry, itchy skin

Comedogenic rating:    4 on its own. If you infuse the herb in sunflower oil the rating is 1. If you infuse the herb in olive oil the rating is 2

Viscosity:                         Thick but absorbs well

Color: 

Caution:                           It’s a carrier oil that is infused with calendula blossoms. So the comedogenic rating depends on what carrier oil it’s infused in.

Shelf life:                         1 year

Scent:

Note:

Camelina Seed Oil – also known as False Flax Oil

Extracted from: 

Contains:                         Plant sterols and Omega 3

Best for:                           Inflammation, dehydrated dry skin, anti-aging

Comedogenic rating:    4

Viscosity:

Color:

Caution:                           It is similar to flaxseed oil but very comedogenic. Not suitable for oily skin

Shelf life: 2 years

Scent: 

Note: 

Linolenic acid – 38%
Linoleic acid – 16%
Oleic acid – 19%
Eicosenic acid – 12%

​

Camellia Seed Oil – also known as Green Tea Seed Oil, Tea Oil or Camellia Sinensis Oil

Extracted from:               Seeds of the camelia wildflower

Contains:                          Vitamin E

Best for:                             Dry and acne-prone skin, anti-aging, inflammation, redness. It is a great oil in hair care recipes.

Comedogenic rating:      1 but the high oleic acid green tea seed oil will be 2 - 3

Viscosity:                           Medium and silky and absorbs well

Color:                                 Yellow

Caution: 

Shelf life:                           2 years if you store it in a cool dark place

Scent: Light

Note:                                  It’s a great oil to add to other recipes because it helps other oils to absorb quicker. Depending on where you live it can be a little expensive so good alternatives are grapeseed, safflower, marula, or macadamia nut oil.

Linoleic acid– 7%
Oleic acid– 79% for high-oleic acid and 36-42% for regular
 

Candle Nut Oil – also known as Kukui Nut Oil

Canola Oil – also known as Rapeseed Oil

Extracted from:               Seeds of the canola plant also known as the rapeseed plant.

Contains: 

Best for:

Comedogenic rating:

Viscosity:                         Smooth and absorbs fairly well

Color:                               Yellow

Caution: 

Shelf life:                          1 year if you store it in a cool dry place.

Scent: 

Note:                                  It’s typically used in cooking but is a great ingredient for soap. Buy the organic version if you are concerned about GMO’s. Good alternatives are olive or rice bran oils for soaps. Good alternatives for skincare would be rice bran, safflower, or apricot kernel oils.

​

Caraway Oil – also known as Black Cumin Seed Oil, Kalonji Oil, Nigella Sativa Oil or Black Seed Oil

Carrot Seed Oil

Extracted from:

Contains:

Best for:                           Calms irritated skin, anti-aging and helpful for psoriasis and eczema

Comedogenic rating:    4

Viscosity:                         It’s thick but you can mix it with coconut or olive oil to help absorbancy

Color:

Caution:                          Not suitable for acne-prone skin but if you want the benefits of carrots then consider adding a few drops of carrot seed essential oil to you face cream

Shelf life:                         1 year

Scent:

Note:

Linoleic acid– 10.8%
Linolenic acid– 0.2%
Oleic acid– 68.4%

​

Castor Oil

Extracted from:              Castor beans

Contains:                         Omega 6 and Vitamin E

Best for:                           Acne-prone skin, great for increasing cell turnover.

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity:                         Thick and sticky and should be diluted with another carrier oil like olive oil to help absorbency.

Color:                               Pale yellow

Caution:                           Not suitable for dry skin because of its ricin oleic acid content. It is very drying and must be diluted in another carrier oil

Shelf life:                          5 years but you must keep it is a cool dry place

Scent:                                Light

Note:                                 If you use the oil cleansing method to clean your skin, then castor oil is a must. It’s also commonly used to make soap and lip gloss.

Linoleic acid– 4%
Ricinoleic acid– 90%
Oleic acid– 4%

Chardonnay Grape Seed Oil

Extracted from: 

Contains:

Best for:                          Acne-prone oily skin

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity: Light

Color:

Caution:                          It works best when mixed with other carrier oils

Shelf life:

Scent:

Note:

Palmitic acid – 10%
Stearic acid – 7%
Oleic acid – 20%
Linoleic acid – 63-72%

Cherry Kernel Oil

Extracted from:             Cherry fruit pit (kernel)

Contains:                        Vitamin A and E

Best for:                           Inflammation, redness, irritation, dry skin

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Light, dry and absorbs well. Similar to grapeseed oil

Color:                               Pale yellow

Caution:

Shelf life:                         2 years if you keep it in a cool dark place. Keep it in the refrigerator to boost its shelf life.

Scent: 

Note:                                It’s a little difficult to find at times. So a good alternative would be apricot kernel or sweet almond oil.

Linoleic acid– 42%
Oleic acid– 46%
 

Chia Seed Oil – also known as White Chia Seed Oil

Extracted from:              Chia seeds

Contains:                         Omega 3

Best for:                           Inflammation, hair care, sensitive skin

Comedogenic rating:    3

Viscosity:                        Rich and smooth and absorbs fairly fast

Color:                              Yellow

Caution:                          This oil is better as a supplement than a topical cream and can clog pores of oilier skin types

Shelf life:                         1 year if you keep it in a cool dark place. Keep it in the refrigerator to boost the shelf life up to 2 years.

Scent:                               Sharp

Note:                                 It’s not super easy to find, so good alternatives are argan, prickly pear, kiwi, flaxseed or perilla oils

Linoleic acid– 18.7%
Linolenic acid– 61%
Oleic acid– 7.7%

Chokeberry Seed Oil

Extracted from:

Contains:

Best for:                           Oily, sensitive, dehydrated skin

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Absorbs quickly

Color: 

Caution: 

Shelf life:

Palmitic acid – 6-12%
Oleic acid – 22-30%
Linoleic acid – 57-64%

Cloudberry Seed Oil

Extracted from:

Contains:

Best for:                           Oily acne-prone skin

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity:

Color:

Caution:                          It works best if mixed with other carrier oils

Shelf life:

Palmitic acid – 3%
Stearic acid – 1.4%
Oleic acid – 16%
Linoleic acid – 43%
Linolenic acid – 34%

Cocoa Butter - also known as Theobroma Oil

Extracted from:              Cocoa bean

Contains:                         Healthy fatty acids

Best for:                           Dry chapped skin, anti-aging, will help prevent stretch marks and scarring

Comedogenic rating:    4

Viscosity:                         Hard at room temperature but absorbs well when melted

Color:                               Pale yellow or tan

Caution:                           Not recommended for acne-prone skin and more suitable for the body than for the face. Some people are allergic to cocoa.

Shelf life:                          5 years if you refrigerated it

Scent:                               Chocolate aroma

Note:                                 It works well to thicken recipes when you don’t want to add a wax. You could use other hard butters like kokum or tucuma butter as alternatives.

Linoleic acid– 3%
Oleic acid– 35%
Stearic acid– 35%

​

Coconut Butter

Extracted from:              Ground up coconut flesh that is pounded into a paste

Contains:                         Healthy fatty acids

Best for:                           Dry chapped skin

Comedogenic rating:    4

Viscosity:                         Semi-solid

Color:                               White

Caution:                           Not recommended for acne-prone skin. Often leaves an oily film on the skin

Shelf life:                         6 months

Scent:

Note:

Linoleic acid– 3.2%
Oleic acid– 35%
Palmitic acid– 26%
Stearic acid– 35%
 

Coconut Oil – also known as Copra Oil

Extracted from:              Meat of the coconut

Contains:                         Vitamin E

Best for:                           Reducing inflammation, dry skin, anti-aging

Comedogenic rating:    4

Viscosity:                         Light oily liquid or solid depending on the room temperature and absorbs fairly well

Color:                               White

Caution:                          Not recommended for acne-prone skin

Shelf life:                         2 - 4 years if you keep it in a cool dry place

Scent:                              Coconut

Note:                                Coconut oil is typically found in an oily but hard state. However, if you live in an area where the average temperature is above 24˚C or 75˚F then it will stay liquid. It pairs well with raw cocoa butter. A good alternative is babassu oil. The nice thing about babassu oil is that it has a lower comedogenic rating and is less likely to clog your pores or cause a breakout.

Caprylic acide - 7%

Capric acid - 6%

Lauric acid– 45-52%
Linoleic acid– 1-3%
Linolenic acid– 0.2%
Oleic acid– 5-8%

Myristic acid - 18%

Palmitic acid 9%

Stearic acid - 3%

​

Coconut Oil (Fractionated)

Fractionated coconut oil has a longer shelve life and is considered more stable than virgin coconut oil. It is odorless compared to virgin coconut oil which has a coconut smell. V. C.O. is not as processed as the F. C. O. and is, therefore, more nourishing. However, the F. C. O. has a lower comedogenic rating of 3 which makes it a really good massage oil. F. C. O. is still a really good moisturizer and often used to soothe skin rashes. V. C. O. is solid at lower room temperatures while F. C. O. will stay liquid.

It has a 5 + year shelf life

Caprylic acid – 55-65%
Capric acids – 36-47%
 

Cottonseed Oil

Extracted from:

Contains:

Best for:                           Mostly used in the food industry and to make soap

Comedogenic rating:    3

Viscosity:

Color:

Caution:                           May cause breakouts and isn’t very beneficial for the skin.

Shelf life:

Scent:

Note:

Linoleic acid– 42-54%
Linolenic acid– 1%
Oleic acid– 19-35%

Crambe Oil - also known as Abyssinian Seed Oil

Cranberry Seed Oil

Extracted from:              Cranberry seeds

Contains:                         Vitamin A and E, essential fatty acids

Best for:                           Dry, scaly, irritated sensitive skin, dry acne-prone skin, inflammation, eczema, psoriasis, scarring

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Medium and absorbs well

Color:                               Golden yellow

Caution:                           May cause breakouts in oily skin

Shelf life:                          2 years if it’s kept in the refrigerator

Scent:                                Fruity

Note:                                  It can be difficult to find and is more expensive than most other oils.

Linoleic acid– 35-45%
Linolenic acid– 22-35%
Oleic acid– 20-25%

Cucumber Seed Oil

Extracted from:             Dried cucumber seeds

Contains:                        Vitamin B, C, E, Magnesium, Omega 6

Best for:                          Restoring skin’s elasticity, nourishes the skin, reduces redness and inflammation, anti-aging, dry skin

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity:                        Thin and absorbs quickly

Color:                              Earthy dark color

Caution: 

Shelf life:                         1 - 2 years              

Scent:

Note:

Linoleic acid– 60-88%
Linolenic acid– <1%
Oleic acid– 14-20%

​

Cupuacu Butter

Extracted from:              Cupuacu tree seeds

Contains:                         Healthy fatty acids

Best for:                           Dry skin, anti-inflammatory, best as a hydrating body butter

Comedogenic rating:    4

Viscosity:                        Soft and creamy, absorbs well

Color:                              White and smells a little like pineapple and chocolate

Caution:                          Store in a cool dry place. Not recommended as a face cream ingredient

Shelf life:                        1 year if you keep it in a cool dry place

Scent:

Note:                               The unrefined butter can have a sour smell. Good alternatives are shea or mango butters. It’s not as greasy as shea butter but a little more expensive.

Stearic acid – 38%
Oleic acid – 38%
Palmitic acid – 11%
Arachidic acid – 7%

Date Seed Oil

Extracted from:

Contains:

Best for:                           Has some UVB protection, anti-aging, supports elasticity, reduces redness and irritation.

Comedogenic rating:    3

Viscosity:                         Absorbs well

Color:

Caution:                           May cause breakouts if used on the face.

Shelf life:

Scent:

Note:

Lauric acid– 18%
Linoleic acid– 12%
Linolenic acid– 2%
Oleic acid– 41-50%

Elderberry Seed Oil

Extracted from: 

Contains:                         Anti-oxidants,

Best for:                           Supports elasticity, inflammation, acne-prone skin

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Smooth and silk

Color:  

Caution: 

Shelf life:

Scent:

Note:

Linoleic acid– 43%
Linolenic acid– 35-45%
Oleic acid– 8-12%
 

Emu Oil

Extracted from:             The oil is rendered from the fat found under the skin of a deceased Emu bird

Contains:                         Essential fatty acids

Best for:                           Inflammation, pain, redness, dry skin

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity:                        Absorbs well

Color:                              Bright yellow

Caution:                          This is not a vegan oil since it’s extracted from the fat of the Emu bird carcass.

Shelf life:                         1 year if you refrigerate it

Scent:    

Note: 

Linoleic acid– 15%
Linolenic acid– 0.9%
Oleic acid– 47.4%
 

Evening Primrose Oil

Extracted from:             Seeds of the evening primrose flower

Contains:                        Essential fatty acids

Best for:                          Reducing inflammation, promote skin elasticity, helpful with reducing hyperpigmentation, great for acne-prone skin, eczema

Comedogenic rating:    3

Viscosity:                         Thick and absorbs slowly

Color:                               Golden yellow

Caution:                           Leaves an oily film on the skin

Shelf life:                         6 months to a year if you store it in a cool dry place. If you store it in the refrigerator you could extend the shelf life.

Scent:                              Light and sweet

Note:                               Mix it with another carrier oil to mask the smell. Good alternatives are black current see and borage oils. You can blend it with a fast-absorbing oil like argan oil to potentially boost its absorption.

Linoleic acid– 75%
Gamma Linolenic acid– 11%

Alpha Linolenic acid – less than 1%
Oleic acid– 6%

False Flax Oil – also known as Camelina Seed Oil 

Fenugreek

Extracted from:              Seeds

Contains:                         Omega 3

Best for:                           Anti-aging, skin conditions such as psoriasis, acne or eczema, stretch marks

Comedogenic rating:     Unknown

Viscosity:                         Medium but absorbs well

Color:                               Pale yellow to light brown

Caution:  

Shelf life:                          2 years (refrigerated)         

Scent:  

Note:  

Flaxseed Oil - also known as Linseed Oil

Extracted from:

Contains:                        Essential fatty acids and vitamins

Best for: 

Comedogenic rating:    4

Viscosity:

Color:

Caution:                          Not recommended for acne-prone skin

Shelf life:                         6 months if you refrigerate after opening

Scent:

Note:

Linoleic acid– 17%
Linolenic acid– 59%
Oleic acid– 15%

Foraha Oil - also known as Tamanu Oil or Calophyllum Oil

Goji Seed Oil – also known as Goji Berry Oil or Wolf Berry Seed Oil

Extracted from: 

Contains:  

Best for:                           Works well around the eye area, firming, oily skins

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity:                         Light

Color:  

Caution:  

Shelf life:  

Scent:  

Note:  

Linoleic acid– 68%
Linolenic acid– 3%
Oleic acid– 19%

Grapefruit Seed Oil

Extracted from:              Grape seeds

Contains:  

Best for:                           Regeneration, anti-aging, dryness, acne-prone oily skin

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Light and absorbs well

Color:                               Pale green

Caution:                           It is best when it’s mixed with another carrier oil at a 1 – 3% dilution. It can be a little astringent but that makes it great for oiler skins.

Shelf life:                          2 years if you keep it in a cool dry place

Scent:                                Light

Note:                                 Good alternatives are safflower, sunflower seed, apricot kernel or canola oils.

Palmitic acid – 26-36%
Stearic acid – 1-4%
Oleic acid – 18-25%
Linoleic acid – 32-40%

Grapeseed Oil

Extracted from:              Grape seeds (typically chardonnay and riesling)

Contains:                         Vitamin E, Omega 6

Best for:                           Reducing redness, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity:                         Light

Color:                               Yellow to yellowy-green

Caution:                           Leaves an oily film on the skin

Shelf life:                          6 to 12 months if you keep it in the refrigerator.

Scent:                               Light, a little sweet and nutty

Note:  

Linoleic acid– 63-72%
Oleic acid– 21%

Alpha Linolenic – less than 1%

Green Coffee Oil - also known as Arabica Oil

Extracted from:  

Contains:  

Best for:                           Healing, scarring, dark circles under the eyes

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:  

Color:  

Caution:                          It can clog pores if used on its own and is best when it’s mixed with other carrier oils

Shelf life:  

Scent:  

Note:  

Palmitic acid – 40%
Linoleic acid – 38%
Estearic acid – 8%
Linolenic acid – 2%
Behenic acid – 1%

Groundnut Oil – also known as Peanut Oil

Guava Seed Oil

Extracted from:              Guava seeds

Contains:                         Vitamin A, B, C, essential fatty acids

Best for:                           Anti-aging, stretch marks, hydrating

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Medium but absorbs slowly

Color:                               Brownish

Caution:         

Shelf life:                          1 year (refrigerated)

Scent: 

Note: 

Linoleic acid– 77%
Linolenic acid– 0.7%
Oleic acid– 11%

Hazelnut Oil – also known as filbert nut or cobnut oil

Extracted from:              Roasted and cold-pressed hazelnuts

Contains:                         Vitamin B6, Omega 6 and 9, zinc and potassium

Best for:                           Acne-prone skin, rejuvenating.

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity:                        Thin, absorbs quickly

Color:                              Pale yellow

Caution:                          It has astringent properties and may make the skin feel dry and tight. It may leave a slight oily feel on the skin. Stay away from this oil if you have a nut allergy.

Shelf life:                        1 year if you store it in a cool dry place

Scent:                              Light and nutty

Note:                               It absorbs quickly and leaves the skin feeling dry. It is often referred to as a dry oil for this reason. It’s a cheaper option to rosehip oil.

Linoleic acid– 7-15%
Linolenic acid– 0.5%
Oleic acid– 68-85%

Alpha Linolenic Acid – less than 1%

Hemp Seed Oil

Extracted from:              Hemp grains

Contains:                         Vitamin A and E, omega 3 and 6

Best for:                           Dry skin, psoriasis, eczema, sensitive skin, reduces inflammation and redness, acne-prone skin

Comedogenic rating:    0

Viscosity:                        Medium and absorbs quickly

Color:                              Pale yellow for the refined oil

                                         Greenish – it ranges from light green to a darker green color for the less refined oil

Caution:   

Shelf life:                         6 – 12 months if you keep it in the refrigerator.

Scent:                              Nutty, grassy

Note:                                It will add a green color to your creams. It does not contain THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)

Linoleic acid– 56%
Linolenic acid– 25%
Oleic acid– 11%

Hypericum Oil

Extracted from:  

Contains:  

Best for:  

Comedogenic rating: 

Viscosity:  

Color:  

Caution:  

Shelf life:  

Scent:  

Note: 

Linoleic acid– 56%
Linolenic acid– 25%
Oleic acid– 11%

Indian Fig Oil – also known as Prickly Pear Seed Oil, Barbary Fig Oil and Cactus Pear Oil

Jojoba Oil

Extracted from:              Jojoba seeds

Contains:                         Vitamin B and E, Zinc

Best for:                           Acne-prone skin, balances excess oil in the skin, inflammation

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Medium and absorbs well. It’s a liquid wax

Color:                               Clear gold but the refined oil is clear

Caution:            

Shelf life:                         2 years if it’s kept in a cool dry place. Highly stable oil, cold-pressed Jojoba oil can last up to 5 years

Scent:                               Light

Note:                                 It mimics the sebum in our skin which is why it’s such a good oil to use in face creams. It is a little expensive, so a good alternative is meadowfoam oil. Jojoba oil is actually a wax

Eicosenoic acid– 65-80%
Linoleic acid– 5%
Linolenic acid– 1%
Oleic acid– 5-15%

​

Kalonji Oil – also known as Black Cumin Seed Oil, Caraway Oil, Nigella Sativa Oil or Black Seed Oil

Kalahari Oil – also known as Ootanga Oil or Watermelon Seed Oil

Karanja Oil

Extracted from:  

Contains:  

Best for:                           Anti-septic, insect repellant

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity: 

Color:  

Caution:                          Very similar to Neem Oil. It can clog pores in oily skin. It’s at its best when it's mixed with other carrier oils

Shelf life:  

Scent:  

Note:  

Palmitic acid – 12%
Stearic acid – 8%
Oleic acid – 51%
Linoleic acid – 16%
Linolenic acid – 3%
Behenic acid – 4%

Kiwi Seed Oil

Extracted from:  

Contains:  

Best for:                           Dry scaly skin, great to apply to your hair’s split ends

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity:  

Color:  

Caution:                           It’s best if used as a spot treatment only

Shelf life: 

Scent:  

Note:  

Linoleic acid– 16%
Linolenic acid– 63%
Oleic acid– 13%

​

Kokum Butter

Extracted from:            Seeds of the kokum fruit

Contains: 

Best for:                         As an ingredient in body butters

Comedogenic rating:   

Viscosity:                       Solid, firmer than shea butter but absorbs fairly fast

Color:                             Off white

Caution:     

Shelf life:                       2 years if you store it in a cool dry place.

Scent:  

Note:                              Like cocoa and tucuma, kokum is considered a brittle butter and will sometimes crumble. It’s the main ingredient in many body butters. Other brittle butters are generally easier to find.

Kukui Nut Oil – also known as Candle Nut Oil

Extracted from:              Kuku’i nut

Contains:                         Vitamin A, C, and E, Essential fatty acids

Best for:                           Dry skin, stretch marks, great for hair and scalp care, irritated skin, psoriasis, eczema, anti-aging

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                        Thin, absorbs well but it may leave an oily film on the skin.

Color:                              Pale yellow

Caution:                          It’s best when used at night because it may leave an oily film on the skin. It can go rancid pretty quickly.

Shelf life:                        1 year if you store it in a cool dry place

Scent:                             Sweet and nutty

Note:                              A good alternative is rice brain oil

Linoleic acid– 40%
Linolenic acid– 26%
Oleic acid– 25%

Alpha Linolenic Acid- 29%

Lanolin Oil

Extracted from:             Wax in sheep’s wool

Contains:  

Best for:                           Dry skin, as an ingredient in ointments

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Thick and greasy and absorbs slowly

Color:                               Yellow

Caution:                           This is not a vegan oil because it’s taken from sheep’s wool. It’s best if mixed with another carrier oil

Shelf life:                          2 years if you keep it in a cool dry place.

Scent:                                Oily

Note:                                  It can be sticky. A good alternative is hydrogenated castor oil.

Linseed Oil – also known as Flax Seed Oil

​

Macadamia Oil

Extracted from:              Macadamia Nut

Contains:                         Vitamin A and B

Best for:                           Inflammation, dry skin

Comedogenic rating:    3

Viscosity:                         Thick. It absorbs well but may leave an oily film on the skin.

Color:                               Light amber

Caution:                           Do not use if you have a nut allergy

Shelf life:                          1 year                                                   

Scent:                               Sweet, fatty and nutty

Note:                                 It is more fragrant than other nut oils

Linoleic acid– 1-5%
Linolenic acid– 3%
Oleic acid– 55-67%
Palmitoleic acid– 15-22%

Alpha Linolenic Acid- 2%

Mamay Oil – also known as South American Apricot Seed Oil or Sapote Oil

Mango Butter

Extracted from:              Mango seeds

Contains:                         Essential fatty acids, Vitamin A, C and E

Best for:                           Soothes dry skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and dermatitis, inflammation, anti-aging, soothes insect bites and sunburn

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Hard at room temperature but it’s one of the softer butters and will liquefy once it’s applied. It absorbs well.

Color:                               White

Caution:  

Shelf life:                          1 year if stored in a cool dark place

Scent:                                Light

Note:                                  It doesn’t leave you feeling oily like perhaps shea butter does but it is a little more expensive. Good alternatives are cupuacu or shea butter

Linoleic acid– 1-13%
Oleic acid– 34-56%
Palmitic acid– 3-18%
Stearic acid– 26-57%

Mango Seed Oil – also known as Mango Oil

Extracted from:  

Contains:  

Best for:                           Inflammation, redness, dry skin, acne-prone skin

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:  

Color:  

Caution:                          Melts on contact with the skin

Shelf life:  

Scent:  

Note:  

Linoleic acid– 4%
Oleic acid– 40-46%
Stearic acid– 40-45%

Maracuja Oil – also known as Passion Fruit Seed Oil

Marula Oil

Extracted from:              Marula nut (kernel)

Contains:                         Vitamin C and E, Essential fatty acids

Best for:                           Anti-aging, great for all skin types

Comedogenic rating:    4

Viscosity:                         Thin and absorbs well

Color:                               Pale yellow-orange color

Caution:                           If you have drier skin and it tolerates coconut oil then it should tolerate marula oil

Shelf life:                         2 years if you keep it in a cool dry place.

Scent:                               Sweet and nutty

Note:                                 It’s not a common oil and can be hard to find. A good alternative is argan oil. Argan can be a little pricey. Over time it might become a little milky and some sediment may settle at the bottom. Dip the bottle in some hot water to melt the sediment.

Linoleic acid– 4-7%
Oleic acid– 70-78%

​

Meadowfoam Seed Oil

Extracted from:              Seeds of the meadowfoam flower

Contains:                         Vitamin E

Best for:                           All skin types, anti-aging

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity:                         Waxy oil but it absorbs quickly

Color:                               Pale yellow

Caution:                           Very similar consistency to jojoba oil

Shelf life:                          3 years if you store it in a cool dry place. This is a highly stable oil.   

Scent:                                Light almost odorless

Note:                                  It is a little expensive but is a good alternative for jojoba oil. 

Ecosenoic acid– 60%
Linoleic acid– 4%
Oleic acid– 2%

Erucic Acid - 9%

Delta Linolenic Acid – 4%

Alpha Linolenic Acid – 1%

Milk Thistle Seed Oil

​

Extracted from:  

Contains:  

Best for:                           Most skin types

Comedogenic rating:    1

Viscosity: 

Color:  

Caution:                          Similar to sunflower oil

Shelf life:  

Scent:  

Note:  

Linoleic acid-61%
Linolenic acid– 0.2%
Oleic acid– 24%

Mink Oil

Extracted from: 

Contains:  

Best for:                           Inflammation, itching, dry skin

Comedogenic rating:    3

Viscosity:  

Color:  

Caution:                           May cause breakouts in oilier skins

Shelf life:  

Scent: 

Note:  

Linoleic acid– 16%
Oleic acid– 39%
Palmitic acid– 16%
Palmitoleic acid– 15%

​

Moringa Oil – also known as Behen Oil

Extracted from:              Moringa seed

Contains:                         Vitamin C and E

Best for:                           Anti-aging, dry skin, reduces redness and inflammation

Comedogenic rating:    3

Viscosity:                         Liquid above 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Absorbs quickly

Color:                               Yellow

Caution:                           Not recommended for oily or acne-prone skin because it may cause breakouts

Shelf life:                         5 years in cold dry places

Scent:                               Nutty

Note:                                Sometimes sediment settles at the bottom of the bottle. You can place the bottle in some warm water to dissolve it. Shake the bottle before each use.

Palmitic acid – 5-13%
Stearic acid – 2-6%
Behenic acid – 3-10%
Oleic acid – 50-78%
Linoleic acid – 1-10%

​

Mustard Seed Oil

Extracted from:

Contains:

Best for:                           Pain relief, muscle rub

Comedogenic rating:    3

Viscosity:

Color:

Caution:                          Not recommended for use on the face. It’s more suitable as a massage oil because of its warming effects

Shelf life:

Scent:

Note:

Linoleic acid– 10%
Linolenic acid– 11%
Oleic acid– 25%

​

Mowrah Butter     

Extracted from:

Contains:

Best for:

Comedogenic rating:

Viscosity:

Color:

Caution:

Shelf life:

Scent:

Note:

Murumuru Butter 

Extracted from:               Murumuru palm seed

Contains:  

Best for:  

Comedogenic rating:  

Viscosity: Soft butter

Color: Pale yellow

Caution:  

Shelf life:                          2 years if you keep it in a cool dry place

Scent: Light

Note:                                  It is harder to find than other soft butters like shea and mango and can be a little expensive.

Neem Oil

Extracted from:  

Contains:  

Best for:                           Reduces irritation, inflammation, redness, acne-prone skin, psoriasis, insect repellent

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Soft and waxy and does not absorb quickly

Color:                               Milky brownish yellow

Caution:                          Smells like boiled peanuts

Shelf life:                         2 years if you keep it in a cool dry place

Scent:                              Pungent

Note:                                Not suitable for pregnant women

Linoleic acid– 13%
Oleic acid– 50%
Palmitic acid– 18%
Stearic acid– 15%
 

Nigella Sativa Oil – also known as Black Cumin Seed Oil, Kalonji Oil, Caraway Oil or Black Seed Oil

Oat Oil

Extracted from:              Oat kernels

Contains: 

Best for:                           Irritation, inflammation, sensitive skin, redness, dry skin, hydrating, eczema   

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                        Medium and absorbs well but slowly

Color:                              Golden

Caution:                          Best with used with another carrier oil

Shelf life:                         2 years if you keep it in a cool dry place

Scent:                               Like oats

Note:                                 It’s better in body butters and soaps

Oleic acid – 35-43%
Linoleic acid – 35-43%

​

Olive Oil      

Extracted from:              Olives

Contains:                         Squalene

Best for:                           Hydration, anti-aging, healing, reduces inflammation and redness

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                        Medium to heavy and absorbs well

Color:                              Greenish yellow

Caution:  

Shelf life:                         2 years if you keep it in a cool, dark, dry place.

Scent:                               Fruity

Note:                                Good alternatives are rice bran and soya bean oils but olive oil is the cheapest. It’s great in soaps. It’s best to use it in a blend of oils instead of on its own.

Linoleic acid– 5-15%
Oleic acid– 63-80%
Palmitic acid– 7-14%

Alpha Linolenic Acid- less than 1%

Ootanga Oil – also known as Watermelon Seed Oil or Kalahari Oil

Palm Kernel Oil  

Extracted from:  

Contains:  

Best for:                          Cracked heels, dry skin

Comedogenic rating:    4

Viscosity:

Color:

Caution:                          Very similar to coconut oil. It will most likely cause breakouts in oily skin types.

Shelf life:                         2 years                                         

Scent:  

Note:  

Lauric acid– 48%
Linoleic acid– 2.3%
Oleic acid– 15%
 

Papaya Seed Oil

Extracted from:  

Contains:  

Best for:                           Supports elasticity, anti-aging, regenerating, acne-prone skin, inflammation

Comedogenic rating:    3

Viscosity:

Color:

Caution:

Shelf life

1 year

Scent:

Note:  

Linoleic acid– 3%
Oleic acid– 77%
Palmitic acid– 14%

​

Palm Oil

Extracted from:  

Contains:  

Best for:  

Comedogenic rating:    4

Viscosity:  

Color:  

Caution:  

Shelf life:                          2 years

Scent:  

Note:                                 Babassu oil is a great substitute for palm oil

Passionfruit Seed Oil – also known as Maracuja Oil

Extracted from:              Passion fruit seeds and flowers

Contains:                         Vitamins A and C, essential fatty acids

Best for:                           Calms itchy, inflamed acne-prone skin but is great for all skin types

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Light and absorbs quickly into the skin

Color:                               Yellow        

Caution:

Shelf life:                          1 year in a cool, dry, dark place

Scent:                                Light and fruity

Note:                                  It can be hard to find and a little pricey so you could swap it out for poppyseed oil. You could also blend rosehip and argan oils or safflower and grapeseed oils to make a good alternative.

Linoleic acid– 77%
Oleic acid– 12%

Peach Kernel Oil

Extracted from:  

Contains:                         Vitamin E

Best for:                           Dry, sensitive skin

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Light and non-greasy

Color:

Caution: 

Shelf life:                         1 year

Scent:

Note:                                Very similar to apricot kernel oil

Linoleic acid– 15-35%
Oleic acid– 55-75%
Palmitic acid– 5-8%

​

Peanut Oil – also known as Groundnut Oil

​

Extracted from:              Peanuts

Contains:

Best for:                           Anti-aging, acne-prone skin, injury massage

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                         Thick and leaves an oily film on the skin

Color:                               Clear

Caution:                           Do not use if you have a nut allergy

Shelf life:                          1 year if you keep it in the refrigerator. It can get rancid easily.

Scent:                                Nutty and fatty

Note: 

Linoleic acid– 32%
Oleic acid– 48%
Palmitic acid– 11%

Alpha Linolenic Acid- less than 1%

Pecan Oil

Extracted from:              Pecan nut

Contains:  

Best for:                           Dry, chapped skin. Works well as a cleansing oil

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:                        Medium. It absorbs well but may leave an oily film on the skin.

Color:                              Almost clear

Caution:                          May leave an oily residue and is best when used at night.

Shelf life:                         6 – 12 months

Scent:                               Light and nutty

Note:  

Linoleic acid– 21%
Oleic acid– 41%

​

Pequi Oil

Extracted from:  

Contains:  

Best for:                           Dry, cracked skin, eczema, scarring, great for taming dry frizzy hair

Comedogenic rating:    3

Viscosity:

Color:

Caution:                           Not a good oil for oily skin

Shelf life:  

Scent:

Note: 

Palmitic acid – 20-30%
Stearic acid – 2-5%
Oleic acid – 40-60%
Linoleic acid – 15-25%

​

Perilla Oil – also known as Wild Basil Oil

Extracted from:  

Contains:  

Best for:                          Regulating skin’s oil production, good cleansing oil,

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:

Color:

Caution:

Shelf life:

Scent:

Note:

Palmitic acid – 7%
Stearic acid – 1-3%
Oleic acid – 14-23%
Linoleic acid – 11-16%
Linolenic acid – 54-64%

Pine Nut Oil

​

Extracted from:  

Contains:  

Best for:                           Itching, eczema, psoriasis and acne-prone skin, hydrating

Comedogenic rating:    2

Viscosity:  

Color:  

Caution:                           It’s best when mixed with another carrier oil

Shelf life:  

Scent:  

Note:  

Linoleic acid– 49%
Oleic acid– 24%
Pinolenic acid– 17% (only found in pine nuts)

​

Pistachio Oil

Extracted from:  

Contains:  

Best for:  

Comedogenic rating:  

Viscosity:  

Color:  

Caution:  

Shelf life: 

Scent:  

Note:  

Plum Kernel Oil

Extracted from:              Plum fruit kernel

Contains: