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?
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%
Almond Oil (Sweet)
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.
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%
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%
Barbary Fig Oil – see Prickly Pear Seed Oil
Behen Oil – see Moringa Oil. Also known as Ben Oil
Blackberry Seed Oil
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%
Black Cumin Seed Oil – see Kalonji Oil, Black Caraway Oil, Nigella Sativa Oil, or Black Seed Oil
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
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
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
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:
Best for: Anti-aging and supports skin elasticity
Comedogenic rating: 2
Viscosity: Light and absorbs quickly
Color: Yellow
Caution:
Shelf life: 2 years if you keep it in a cool, dark, dry place.
Scent: Fruity
Note: This oil’s aroma carries through to the end product. It can be a little pricey so good alternatives are sweet almond, peach kernel, apricot kernel cherry kernel oils.
Linoleic acid– 24%
Oleic acid– 67%
Pomegranate Seed Oil
Extracted from: Pomegranate seeds
Contains: Omega 5
Best for: Restoring skin’s pH, anti-aging, inflammation, dry irritated skin
Comedogenic rating: 1
Viscosity: Thick but absorbs well
Color: Pale yellow
Caution:
Shelf life: 1 year if you keep it in cool, dry, dark place
Scent: Light, almost odorless
Note: Good alternatives are argan and abyssinian oils. It oxidizers easily so it might be better to keep it in the refrigerator and to add a little vitamin E (anti-oxidant) to the oil to extend the shelf life.
Linoleic acid– 10%
Linolenic acid– 0.5%
Oleic acid-5%
Poppy Seed Oil
Extracted from:
Contains:
Best for:
Comedogenic rating: 1
Viscosity: Light
Color:
Caution: May leave an oily film on the skin. It is very similar to hemp seed oil
Shelf life: 1 year
Scent:
Note :
Linoleic acid– 58.5%
Oleic acid– 28.3%
Prickly Pear Seed Oil – also known as Barbary Fig Oil, Indian Fig Oil and Cactus Pear Oil
Extracted from: Seeds of the prickly pear cactus
Contains:
Best for: Inflammation, anti-aging, supports skin elasticity, sensitive dry skin
Comedogenic rating: 2
Viscosity: Medium and absorbs well
Color: Yellowy green
Caution: Drier skin may not feel the benefit of this oil. It’s more suited to oilier skin types
Shelf life: 2 years if you keep it in the refrigerator. It should not solidify in the refrigerator
Scent: Oily
Note: It’s expensive and should only be used in skincare products where you use small amounts like serums. Good alternatives are wheat germ, baobab seed, passionfruit, amaranth, cotton, or quinoa oils.
Palmitic acid – 12%
Stearic acid – 4%
Oleic acid – 22%
Linoleic acid – 60%
Pumpkin Seed Oil
Extracted from: Pumpkin seeds
Contains: Zinc, selenium, vitamin A, C and E, Omega 3 and 6
Best for: Acne-prone skin, hydrating
Comedogenic rating: 2
Viscosity: Thick but absorbs well
Color: Orange, amber, or greenish-yellow depending on the supplier.
Caution:
Shelf life: 1 year to 18 months if you keep it in a cool, dark, dry place.
Scent:
Note: A good alternative is to blend some sea buckthorn oil (or buriti oil) with jojoba oil. This will give you the same consistency and absorption rate.
Linoleic acid-47%
Linolenic acid-0.2%
Oleic acid-36.3%
Raspberry Seed Oil
Extracted from: Raspberry seeds
Contains: Vitamin E
Best for: Inflammation
Comedogenic rating:
Viscosity: Light and absorbs well
Color: Yellow
Caution:
Shelf life: 2 years if you keep it in a cool, dry, dark place. Consider storing it in the refrigerator.
Scent: Light
Note: Its anti-inflammatory properties are greater than other oils such as avocado, grapeseed, hazelnut, or wheat germ oils. It’s pricey so consider rosehip oil as an alternative.
Rapeseed Oil – also known as Canola Oil
Red Palm Oil
Extracted from:
Contains:
Best for: Scarring, stretch marks
Comedogenic rating: 4
Viscosity:
Color: Orange
Caution: The orange color can transfer to clothing. It also has a pungent odor. Do not use on the face it may cause breakouts.
Shelf life: 2 years
Scent:
Note:
Linoleic acid– 14%
Linolenic acid– 0.3%
Oleic acid– 49% (if you get the high-oleic version)
Palmitic acid– 32%
Red Raspberry Seed Oil
Extracted from:
Contains: Natural SPF 28
Best for: Anti-inflammatory, soothes irritated skin
Comedogenic rating: 1
Viscosity: Medium and absorbs well
Color:
Caution:
Shelf life: 2 years
Scent:
Note:
Linoleic acid– 52%
Linolenic acid– 22%
Oleic acid– 11.7%
Rice Bran Oil
Extracted from: Germ or inner husk of rice
Contains:
Best for: Sensitive, mature, delicate skin, inflammation
Comedogenic rating: 2
Viscosity: Light and absorbs well
Color: Yellow
Caution:
Shelf life: 2 years if you keep it in a cool, dry, dark place.
Scent:
Note: It’s a good alternative to olive oil. It may become milky. Just place the bottle in warm water to melt it again.
Linoleic acid– 34%
Oleic acid– 38%
Palmitic acid– 21.5%
Rosehip Seed Oil
Extracted from: Rosehip seed
Contains: Essential fatty acids, Vitamin C and E
Best for: Anti-aging, scarring, hyperpigmentation, irritated dry skin, great for oily skin, great cleansing oil
Comedogenic rating: 1
Viscosity: Light and absorbs well
Color: Light amber
Caution:
Shelf life: 6 months but if you refrigerate it, it can last up to 2 years. It can go rancid quickly
Scent: Light and slightly earthy
Note: It’s a little expensive and may cause some breakouts for oily skin. Hazelnut oil is a good alternative.
Linoleic acid– 44%
Oleic acid– 14%
Alpha Linolenic Acid – 36%
Sacha Inchi Oil
Extracted from:
Contains:
Best for: Redness, irritation, inflammation
Comedogenic rating: 0
Viscosity:
Color:
Caution:
Shelf life:
Linoleic acid– 33%
Linolenic acid– 54%
Oleic acid– 7%
Safflower Oil
Extracted from: Seeds of the safflower plant
Contains:
Best for: Acne-prone skin
Comedogenic rating: 0 (high in linoleic only)
Viscosity: Light and absorbs well
Color: Yellow
Caution:
Shelf life: 2 years if you store it in a cool, dry, dark place
Scent: Light
Note: It’s a good replacement oil for almost any recipe, but grapeseed, sunflower seed, canola and apricot kernel are all good alternatives.
Linoleic acid– 70-80%
Oleic acid– 10-20%
Sandalwood Seed Oil – also known as Sandalwood Nut Oil
Extracted from:
Contains: High in ximenynic acid (inflammation fighter)
Best for: Inflammation, joint pain, bruises, cuts, burns, acne-prone skin
Comedogenic rating: 2
Viscosity:
Color:
Caution: It’s best when mixed with another carrier oil.
Shelf life:
Linoleic acid– 2%
Oleic acid– 50-53%
Ximenynic acid– 28-35%
Sapote Oil – also known as Mamay Oil or South American Apricot Seed Oil
Extracted from:
Contains: Dry skin, dermatitis
Best for:
Comedogenic rating: 3
Viscosity:
Color:
Caution: Semi solid and may clog pores
Shelf life:
Palmitic acid – 9%
Stearic acid – 23%
Oleic acid – 50%
Linoleic acid – 10%
Sea Buckthorn Fruit Oil - not the same as Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil
Extracted from: Sea buckthorn berry
Contains: Carotenoids, Omega 7
Best for: Redness, inflammation, anti-aging, skin regeneration
Comedogenic rating: 1
Viscosity: Medium and absorbs fairly quickly
Color: Dark red orange
Caution:
Shelf life: Up to 2 years if you keep it in a cool, dry, dark place. It’s more shelf stable than sea buckthorn seed oil.
Scent: A little nutty
Note: It can stain the skin or clothing. It can even be used as a dye in some recipes. It can be a little pricey. Good alternatives are avocado or macadamia oils
Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil - not the same as Sea Buckthorn Fruit Oil or Sea Buckthorn Berry Oil
Extracted from: Seeds of the sea buckthorn plant
Contains: Vitamin E, Carotenoids
Best for: Redness, inflammation, anti-aging, skin regeneration
Comedogenic rating: 1
Viscosity: Medium and absorbs fairly quickly
Color: Light orange
Caution:
Shelf life: Up to 2 years if you keep it in a cool, dry, dark place.
Scent: A little nutty
Note: It can stain the skin or clothing. It can be a little pricey. Elderberry oil is a good alternative. Some Sea Buckthorn Oils are a blend of the seed and fruit oil.
Sesame Seed Oil
Extracted from: Toasted sesame seeds
Contains:
Best for: Scarring, acne prone skin, dry skin, anti-bacterial, healing. A really nice massage oil.
Comedogenic rating: 3
Viscosity: Medium to thick
Color: Pale yellow
Caution: May leave an oily film on the skin and may clog pores for oilier skins
Shelf life: 1 year
Scent: Sweet and nutty
Note:
Linoleic acid– 46%
Oleic acid– 39%
Stearic acid– 4%
Alpha Linolenic Acid- less than 1%
Shea Butter
Extracted from: Shea nut
Contains:
Best for: Rough dry skin, great for heels, elbows and knees, inflammatory
Comedogenic rating: 0
Viscosity: Thick, solid and creamy
Color: Pale yellow or off white
Caution: Use sparingly because it may leave the skin feeling oily until it absorbs. Shea butter naturally contains latex. So if you are allergic to latex, you should not use this product.
Shelf life: Up to 2 years if you keep it in a cool, dry, dark place.
Scent: Light and sometimes a little smokey, nutty.
Note: It’s a soft butter and may melt at room temperature in warmer climates. Mango butter is a good alternative. It can get sandy/gritty if you don’t melt or cooled properly.
Linoleic acid– 3-8%
Oleic acid– 40-55%
Stearic acid– 35-45%
Shea Nut Oil
Extracted from:
Contains:
Best for: Dryness, scarring
Comedogenic rating: 2
Viscosity:
Color:
Caution:
Shelf life:
Scent:
Note:
Linoleic acid– 9-14%
Oleic acid– 57-73%
Stearic acid– 9-27%
South American Apricot Seed Oil – Sapote Oil or Mamey Oil
Soybean Oil – also known as Soya Bean Oil
Extracted from: Seed of the soy plant
Contains: Soy lecithin
Best for:
Comedogenic rating: 5
Viscosity: Medium and absorbs fairly well
Color: Pale yellow
Caution: Not recommended for acne skin
Shelf life: 2 years if you keep it in a cool, dry, dark place
Scent: Oily
Note: It’s super versatile and relatively inexpensive. A good alternative in soap is olive or rice bran oil. A good alternative in skin care is sweet almond or apricot kernel oil.
Linoleic acid– 50%
Linolenic acid– 7%
Oleic acid– 24%
Squalane Oil (Olive) – hydrogenated form of Squalene
Extracted from: Olives ( or shark liver – unlikely but check)
Contains:
Best for: Supports skin elasticity, dehydrated skin
Comedogenic rating: 1
Viscosity: Thin
Color: Clear
Caution: This may not be a vegan oil because squalene used to be extracted from shark liver. Then converted to squalane. It is highly uncommon today but check your labels.
Shelf life: Olive squalane is more shelf stable than squalene and can last up to 2 years in a cool dry place.
Scent: Light
Note: Olive squalane can be expensive.
There are a number of vegan plant based options for squalane these days. Squalane may be derived from amaranth grain, but it is also found in olives, wheat germ and rice bran.
High in Omega-2
Squalene Oil
Extracted from:
Contains:
Best for: Supports skin elasticity, dehydrated skin
Comedogenic rating: 0
Viscosity:
Color:
Caution: This may not be a vegan oil because squalene used to be extracted from shark liver. Then converted to squalane. It is highly uncommon today but check your labels. Alternatives are amaranth seed, rice bran, wheatgerm, and olive oils because they all contain squalene naturally.
Shelf life: Not very shelf-stable
Scent:
Note:
High in Omega-2
Strawberry Seed Oil
Extracted from:
Contains:
Best for: Damaged acne-prone skin, mature, sensitive skin, hydrating, supports elasticity
Comedogenic rating: 1
Viscosity:
Color:
Caution:
Shelf life:
Scent:
Note:
Linoleic acid– 35-50%
Linolenic acid– 30-38%
Oleic acid– 12-18%
Sunflower Seed Oil
Extracted from: Sunflower seeds
Contains: Vitamin A, B, D and E
Best for: Anti-aging, hydrating, eczema, psoriasis
Comedogenic rating: 1
Viscosity: Thin and absorbs well
Color: Pale yellow
Caution: Read your label, and be careful of sunflower oil that is high in Hi-oleic acid. It will clog pores.
Shelf life: 1 - 2 years if you keep it in a cool, dry, dark place
Scent: Light
Note: Good alternatives are safflower, apricot kernel, canola and grapeseed oils
Linoleic acid– 59%
Linolenic acid– 0.5%
Oleic acid– 30%
St John’s Wort Oil
Extracted from:
Contains:
Best for: First aid oil, anti-aging, sensitive oily skin
Comedogenic rating: 2 when blended with olive oil
Viscosity:
Color:
Caution:
Shelf life: 2 years
Scent:
Note:
Tallow Oil
Extracted from: Rendered suet
Contains:
Best for: Dry skin
Comedogenic rating: 2
Viscosity: Solid, thick and absorbs slowly
Color: White
Caution: It may leave an oily film on the skin. This is not a vegan oil because it’s extracted from raw beef fat or mutton (sheep) fat found around the loins and kidneys.
Shelf life: 2 years if you keep it in a cool, dry, dark place
Scent: Meaty
Note: It’s best in soap recipes. It is an alternative to palm oil. A good alternative is lard.
Linoleic acid– 3%
Linolenic acid– 1%
Oleic acid– 47%
Tamanu Oil - also known as Calophyllum Oil or Foraha Oil
Extracted from: Seeds of the tamanu tree
Contains:
Best for: Scarring, dry, sensitive acne prone skin, psoriasis, eczema, inflammation
Comedogenic rating: 2
Viscosity: Thick and absorbs fairly well
Color: Green to brown and sometimes cloudy
Caution: It’s better for spot treatment because it’s thick. Do not use if you have a nut allergy.
Shelf life: 1 – 2 years if you keep it in a cool, dry, dark place
Scent: Nutty but can have a pungent bouillon cubes type of smell
Note: It can go milky in cooler temperatures. A good alternative is macadamia nut oil. You could try to mix shea butter and olive oil.
Linoleic acid– 29-38%
Oleic acid– 34-41%
Stearic acid– 13%
Palmitic acid– 12%
Linolenic Acid- 1 – 1.5%
Theobroma Oil – also known as Cocoa Butter
Tomato Seed Oil
Extracted from:
Contains: Carotenoid and Vitamin E
Best for: Supports elasticity, spot treatment for acne
Comedogenic rating: 2
Viscosity:
Color:
Caution:
Shelf life:
Scent:
Note:: Linoleic acid– 49%
Linolenic acid– 2%
Oleic acid– 21%
Trauma Oil – a blend of St. John’s Wort, Calendula and Arnica Oils
Extracted from:
Contains: St. john’s wort, calendula and arnica oils
Best for: Pain relieving
Comedogenic rating: 2 – if diluted in olive oil
Viscosity: Medium
Color:
Caution:
Shelf life: 1 year
Scent:
Note:
Tucuma Butter
Extracted from: Tucumu palm seeds
Contains:
Best for: Frizzy hair
Comedogenic rating:
Viscosity: Hard chunks but absorbs fairly well
Color:
Caution: It may leave an oily film on the skin.
Shelf life: 1 – 2 years if you keep it in a cool, dry, dark place
Scent: Oily
Note: For some who are allergic to cocoa butter, tucuma, murumuru or kokum butters are good alternatives.
Turkey Red Oil – also known as Sulfated Castor Oil
Extracted from: Castor oil treated with sulfuric acid.
Contains:
Best for: Bath products
Comedogenic rating:
Viscosity: Thick and sticky and absorbs really slowly
Color: Orange to red
Caution: Can be irritating to the skin in high concentrations.
Shelf life: 1 year if you keep it in a cool, dry, dark place
Scent: Oily
Note: It’s one of the most natural emulsifiers. It is different to castor oil and cannot be used in the same way.
Walnut Oil
Extracted from: Walnuts
Contains:
Best for: Acne-prone skin because it’s anti-bacterial, anti-aging, dry skin, redness, inflammation
Comedogenic rating: 2
Viscosity: Medium and absorbs fairly well
Color: Pale yellow
Caution: Do not use if you have a nut allergy
Shelf life: 18 months if you keep it in a cool, dry, dark place
Scent: Light
Note: Good alternatives are sweet almond, safflower, or apricot kernel oils.
Linoleic acid– 51%
Linolenic acid– 10%
Oleic acid– 30%
Watermelon Seed Oil - also known as Kalahari Oil or Ootanga Oil
Extracted from: Seeds of the sweet watermelon
Contains:
Best for: Acne-prone skin, supports elasticity
Comedogenic rating: 1
Viscosity: Light, absorbs quickly and almost feels powdery dry on the skin.
Color: Pale yellow
Caution:
Shelf life: 2 years if you keep it in a cool, dry, dark place
Scent: Oily but also a little fruity
Note: It might be hard to find. Good alternatives are camellia seed, walnut, sunflower or safflower oils
Linoleic acid– 63%
Oleic acid– 15%
Wheatgerm Oil
Extracted from:
Contains: Vitamin E
Best for: Reducing scarring
Comedogenic rating: 5
Viscosity: Thick and sticky
Color:
Caution: Leaves the skin feeling oily. May cause breakouts
Shelf life: 1 year
Scent:
Note:
Linoleic acid– 7%
Linolenic acid– 55%
Oleic acid– 14%
Wild Basil Oil – also known as Perilla Oil
Disclaimer:
Do not use any essential oils or essential oil blends if you have any underlying health conditions. Some oils are not safe for children, pregnant women, or pets. Always check with your doctor or certified aromatherapist, if you are unsure about the benefits or contra-indicators of a recipe or its ingredients. ‘A Scented Story’ is solely my platform to share my experiences with essential oils and other natural products. I do not prescribe any treatments.