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