Is Shark Liver Oil Comedogenic?
Comedogenic rating: 3/5 — Can clog pores
Shark Liver 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. On a label it may also appear as squalene.
| Comedogenic rating | 3/5 — Can clog pores |
|---|---|
| Pore-clogging | Likely |
| Fungal-acne safe | Yes |
| Category | Carrier oil |
| Also known as | squalene |
Is Shark Liver Oil comedogenic?
Shark Liver Oil sits in the moderate-to-high range at 3 out of 5. It can clog pores for some people — particularly those who are very acne-prone — but is better tolerated than the worst offenders. If you break out easily, patch-test Shark Liver Oil and watch how your skin responds over two to three weeks before using it regularly.
Does Shark Liver Oil cause fungal acne?
Shark Liver Oil is generally considered fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe. It is not among the oils, fatty acids or polysorbates known to feed Malassezia yeast, so it should not aggravate fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) for most people.
Should you use Shark Liver Oil if you're acne-prone?
If you are acne-prone, it is safest to keep Shark Liver Oil away from your face in leave-on products. It can still be useful for dry body skin, hair, or in cleansers where it is quickly rinsed off. Normal and dry skin types often tolerate it without issue.
Safer alternatives to Shark Liver Oil
How Shark Liver Oil compares to other carrier oils
| Ingredient | Rating | Pore-clogging |
|---|---|---|
| Shark Liver Oil | 3/5 | Likely |
| 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 Shark Liver Oil comedogenic?
Shark Liver Oil sits in the moderate-to-high range at 3 out of 5. It can clog pores for some people — particularly those who are very acne-prone — but is better tolerated than the worst offenders. If you break out easily, patch-test Shark Liver Oil and watch how your skin responds over two to three weeks before using it regularly.
Does Shark Liver Oil cause fungal acne?
Shark Liver Oil is generally considered fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe. It is not among the oils, fatty acids or polysorbates known to feed Malassezia yeast, so it should not aggravate fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) for most people.
Is Shark Liver Oil safe for acne-prone skin?
If you are acne-prone, it is safest to keep Shark Liver Oil away from your face in leave-on products. It can still be useful for dry body skin, hair, or in cleansers where it is quickly rinsed off. Normal and dry skin types often tolerate it without issue.
What products is Shark Liver Oil found in?
Shark Liver 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 Shark Liver Oil?
Lower-risk swaps include Squalane, all of which rate lower on the comedogenic scale.
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