Is Hemp Seed Oil Comedogenic?
Comedogenic rating: 0/5 — Non-comedogenic
Hemp Seed 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 Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil. On a label it may also appear as hemp oil, cannabis sativa seed oil.
| Comedogenic rating | 0/5 — Non-comedogenic |
|---|---|
| Pore-clogging | Unlikely |
| Fungal-acne safe | No — potential trigger |
| Category | Carrier oil |
| INCI name | Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil |
| Also known as | hemp oil, cannabis sativa seed oil |
Is Hemp Seed Oil comedogenic?
No — Hemp Seed Oil scores 0 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale. It is considered non-comedogenic and will not clog pores for the overwhelming majority of users, which makes it a reliable choice for acne-prone, oily and congestion-prone skin.
Does Hemp Seed Oil cause fungal acne?
Separately from pore-clogging, Hemp Seed 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 Hemp Seed Oil even when its comedogenic rating is low.
Should you use Hemp Seed Oil if you're acne-prone?
Hemp Seed Oil is suitable for virtually all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. You can generally use it with confidence in daily skincare. The main caveat is fungal acne, which Hemp Seed Oil may still aggravate.
How Hemp Seed Oil compares to other carrier oils
| Ingredient | Rating | Pore-clogging |
|---|---|---|
| Hemp Seed Oil | 0/5 | Unlikely |
| Argan 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 |
| Hazelnut Oil | 1/5 | Unlikely |
Frequently asked questions
Is Hemp Seed Oil comedogenic?
No — Hemp Seed Oil scores 0 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale. It is considered non-comedogenic and will not clog pores for the overwhelming majority of users, which makes it a reliable choice for acne-prone, oily and congestion-prone skin.
Does Hemp Seed Oil cause fungal acne?
Separately from pore-clogging, Hemp Seed 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 Hemp Seed Oil even when its comedogenic rating is low.
Is Hemp Seed Oil safe for acne-prone skin?
Hemp Seed Oil is suitable for virtually all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. You can generally use it with confidence in daily skincare. The main caveat is fungal acne, which Hemp Seed Oil may still aggravate.
What products is Hemp Seed Oil found in?
Hemp Seed 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 Hemp Seed Oil?
Look for non-comedogenic emollients rated 0–1 such as squalane, glycerin, hemp seed oil or sunflower oil.
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