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