Is Macadamia Oil Comedogenic?
Comedogenic rating: 2/5 — Low–moderate risk
Macadamia 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 Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil. On a label it may also appear as macadamia integrifolia seed oil.
| Comedogenic rating | 2/5 — Low–moderate risk |
|---|---|
| Pore-clogging | Low–moderate |
| Fungal-acne safe | No — potential trigger |
| Category | Carrier oil |
| INCI name | Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil |
| Also known as | macadamia integrifolia seed oil |
Is Macadamia Oil comedogenic?
Macadamia 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 Macadamia Oil cause fungal acne?
Separately from pore-clogging, Macadamia 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 Macadamia Oil even when its comedogenic rating is low.
Should you use Macadamia Oil if you're acne-prone?
Macadamia 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 Macadamia Oil may still aggravate.
How Macadamia Oil compares to other carrier oils
| Ingredient | Rating | Pore-clogging |
|---|---|---|
| Macadamia 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 Macadamia Oil comedogenic?
Macadamia 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 Macadamia Oil cause fungal acne?
Separately from pore-clogging, Macadamia 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 Macadamia Oil even when its comedogenic rating is low.
Is Macadamia Oil safe for acne-prone skin?
Macadamia 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 Macadamia Oil may still aggravate.
What products is Macadamia Oil found in?
Macadamia 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 Macadamia Oil?
Look for non-comedogenic emollients rated 0–1 such as squalane, glycerin, hemp seed oil or sunflower oil.
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