20 Best Non-Comedogenic Oils For Every Skin Type in 2021

Organic sweet almond oil is a hypoallergenic carrier oil with powerful emollient (moisturizing) benefits. It is particularly great for sensitive types (sweet almond oil is gentle enough to use on sensitive infant skin) and those with oily complexions. The fatty acids within sweet almond oil help to remove the excess sebum. This sebum is responsible for clogged pores and, ultimately, causing breakouts. Almond oil clears this oil, leaving you clean and bacteria-free. This makes sweet almond oil an unlikely superhero for those suffering from acne. One of the other major benefits of sweet almond oil is its ability to lighten skin. Almond oil is comprised of compounds like phytosterols, Vitamin E, and niacin (specifically, niacinamide, the biologically active form of niacin) which are all highly effective at lightening skin tone. For this reason, many people use almond oil in their regimen to lighten dark under-eye circles, treat hyperpigmentation, and improve their overall complexion. The highest quality organic almond oils are those which are created from raw organic almonds using cold-press extraction and are hexane-free (a byproduct of heat-based extraction methods). Luckily, you don’t have to break the bank to add pure organic almond oil to your beauty routine. Check out Now Solutions Sweet Almond Oil, Sky Organics 100% Pure Sweet Almond Oil, or US Organic’s USDA Organic Sweet Almond Oil as affordable starters.

Olive oil has been praised by history’s most iconic beauties as the secret weapon to ageless skin. Sophia Loren famously indulged in olive oil baths and Cleopatra attributed her timeless “olive glow” to the powers of this ancient Mediterranean fruit. Their high praises are definitely warranted. Quality organic olive oil contains effective anti-aging compounds like squalene (a fat found in our own cells), Vitamin E, and a rare antioxidant called hydroxytyrosol which have been proven to protect against free radical damage to the skin. Hydroxytyrosol also boasts antibacterial properties and has been shown to be effective at killing acne causing bacteria. Even though organic olive oil is low comedogenic and non-greasy, some people with oily acne-prone skin have experienced breakouts from excess olive oil use. If you have oily skin and would like to experience the benefits of olive oil try using the oil very sparingly and make sure that you’re purchasing truly authentic organic olive oil that is free from additives. Organic olive oil is pressed from the ripe fruit of the olive tree and comes in three different varieties: virgin olive oil, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), and pure olive oil. Virgin olive oil is a low cost alternative to EVOO which is recommended for cooking and pure olive oil is not suitable for skin care use due to its high acid content. The best type of organic olive oil for skin care is authentic extra virgin olive oil which is cold-pressed and unrefined. Try a single variety olive oil, like La Tourangelle 100% Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, a blended variety like Zoe Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, or a heavenly skin care serum containing olive oil like PurO3’s Ozonated Olive Oil.

Because of its low comedogenic rating, powerful antibacterial properties, and high linoleic acid content, organic grape seed oil has become the oil of choice for those with sensitive, acne prone skin. Grape seed oil is extracted from the seeds of many varieties of grapes (which can explain the difference in oil color from one brand to another). The oil particularly potent for acne sufferers with sensitive skin because of its high linoleic acid content, a compound proven to prevent clogged pores and help treat existing acne infections. Additionally, grapeseed oil is packed with antioxidant powerhouses like oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPC for short!) which are bioflavonoids that specifically seek out and destroy free radicals. As a bonus, the vitamins and minerals within grape seed oil, like vitamins E, D, and C, make it a fantastic emollient for sensitive skin. The most popular uses for grapeseed oil are as a carrier oil for the oil cleansing method (OCM) or as a moisturizer for acne-prone skin. If you’re ready to give it a try, shop for a cold-pressed, hexane-free, raw organic grape seed oil like Nature Certified’s Premium Organic Grapeseed Oil or Now Foods USDA Organic Grapeseed Oil.

Organic castor oil has been called a “must have” by experts. Cold pressed from the seeds of the castor plant, castor oil is a thick, sticky liquid known for its powerful purging and detoxing properties. The oil contains two unique compounds, ricinoleic acid and undecylenic acid, which make castor oil an ideal skin care choice for those who suffer from mild to severe acne. Ricinoleic acid, a rare unsaturated omega 9 fatty acid which makes up 90% of castor oil, prevents harmful microbe growth, heals acne and acne scars, and repairs sunburns while undecylenic acid acts as a powerful germicidal agent. In addition to organic castor oil’s germ fighting abilities, it also boasts notable anti-aging benefits. As we age, we produces less collagen (a key component of complexion) and wrinkles begin to form. Castor oil penetrates into the deepest layers where it works to unclog pores, purge dead cells, and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. Thus, the continuous use of castor oil for skin care can improve moisture levels, suppleness, and overall tone. It is important to note that the high ricinoleic acid in castor oil can have a drying effect, so it’s best to mix organic castor oil with an organic light carrier oil like grapeseed, safflower, or olive oil depending on your type (see below for ratios). The highest quality castor oils are going to be certified organic, cold-pressed, unrefined, and hexane free like Sky Organics USDA Organic Castor Oil.

Organic Marula oil has been used by North African Ovambo women for centuries as their secret “elixir of youth” weapon. The oil is derived from the nut of the South African marula fruit (said to contain over four times the amount of Vitamin C as an orange) and offers benefits to just about every skin type. High in oleic acid, organic marula oil is easily absorbed by dry complexions and provides hydration throughout the day by preventing water loss without leaving an oily residue. The Vitamin E, phytosterols, amino acids, and the powerful antioxidants found in organic marula oil create a potent anti-aging elixir which boosts collagen production and fights free radicals. Because of Marula oil’s high Vitamin C content, continuous use has been shown to significantly improve elasticity and (with the aid of monounsaturated fatty acids) even reduce the appearance of cellulite. Marula oil has a comedogenic rating of 3-4, which gives it a high likelihood of clogging pores. If you tolerate coconut oil well, then you should have no problem using organic marula oil. Otherwise, try using marula oil as a light night mask or spot treatment at first to see how you react.  Pure organic marula oil is rare and can be quite expensive. For starters, check out Acure Organic Marula Oil and Complete Organics USDA Certified Marula Oil (wild-grown).

Many skin care addicts praise organic coconut oil as the holy grail of oils. After all, It’s packed with antioxidants and vitamins which promote cellular repair, protect against premature aging, and prevent moisture loss (helping to minimize the appearance of pores). Coconut oil contains about 6% caprylic acid which has powerful antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties proven to successfully fight candida and other infections such as acne. While Organic coconut oil can be an ideal moisturizer for those suffering from very dry skin, those with sensitive or oily tendencies should be wary of slathering coconut oil on their faces as a daily moisturizer. Coconut oil has a comedogenic rating of 4, which means that it has a high likelihood of clogging pores and causing breakouts for most types. If you want to experience the intense hydration and antioxidant powers of coconut oil (without risking a breakout), try using the oil sparingly as a night mask, homemade sugar scrub, or as a great makeup remover. Remember, always use the highest quality and purest coconut oils which are organic, raw, unrefined (or virgin), and cold-pressed. Check out Cocovit’s USDA Organic Coconut Oil, PurO3’s unique Organic Ozonated Coconut Oil, or Sky Organics Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil.

Also known as Queen Anne’s Lace, organic carrot seed essential oil is extracted via steam distillation from the dried seeds of wild carrots. Filled with potent antioxidants and rejuvenating compounds like carotol, carrot seed oil is most effective at repairing free radical damage, protecting against premature aging, fighting crow’s feet, and moisturizing skin. The oil is particularly great for dry and mature types because of its ability to kick start the natural sebum production. Carrot seed oil also boasts powerful detoxifying, antiseptic, and disinfectant properties capable of treating mild/moderate infections and wounds. New users should note that carrot seed oil contains a high amount of a chemical called furanocoumarin, which increases the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. To avoid this, simply dilute your carrot seed oil with a carrier oil (like sunflower, safflower, hemp seed, or olive oil) before use or avoid direct sunlight for at least 24 hours after using undiluted carrot seed oil.  It’s also important to note that carrot seed essential oil (via steam distillation) is different from cold-pressed carrot seed oil or macerated carrot oil (neither requires dilution). If you plan on making your own homemade organic carrot seed oil concoction, look for a pure essential oil like Plant Guru’s Carrot Seed Oil. Otherwise, check out potent organic serums like Naturopathica’s Carrot Seed Soothing Facial Oil or Earth Tu Face’s Blue Chamomile + Carrot Seed Facial Oil.

A staple in Ayurveda, organic neem oil is one of the most potent antiviral, anti-fungal, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory oils you can use for skin care. Neem oil is created from the fruits and seeds of the Azadirachta indica plant. The secret behind neem oil’s amazing healing properties is its unique blend of compounds including azadirachtin (an insect anti-fungal) , nimbin (an anti-inflammatory and antihistamine), nimbidin (an antibacterial, analgesic, and anti-fungal), and quercetin (an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial). Neem oil also boasts a low comedogenic rating of 1, meaning it won’t clog pores and promote bacteria growth. On the contrary, neem’s ability to kill harmful bacteria, penetrate deeply, and reduce swelling make it an ideal spot treatment for those suffering from acne or acne scarring. Neem oil’s only downside is its…less than desirable smell. Often compared to rotting eggs, garlic, and sulfur, neem oil is better suited for nighttime wear than it is for a date night. With that said, if you can handle the smell, neem oil can be a savior for dry, irritated complexions. For the highest quality oil, look for an organic neem oil that is cold-pressed, unrefined, and certified organic like Foxbrim’s 100% Pure Certified Organic Neem Oil or Theraneem’s Organic Neem Oil.

Made from expressing oil from the dried avocado fruit, organic avocado oil is a rich, thick, luxurious oil capable of penetrating into the deepest layers of the skin. Once there, avocado oil’s unique blend of phytosterols, omega fatty acids, and Vitamin E get to work by stimulating cell growth, diminishing pore size, and increasing the production of collagen. This deep penetrating action makes pure organic avocado oil a fantastic carrier oil for cleansing. Another major benefit of avocado is its ability to heal scars and diminish age spots due to its high content of plant steroids (sterolins). Essentially, continuous use of avocado oil deeply nourishes and can noticeably improve tone and moisture levels. The only downside of avocado oil is that it is a rather heavy oil with a moderate comedogenic rating of 3 (making it likely to clog pores for many skin types). To avoid this, try slowly introducing organic avocado oil into your regimen slowly as a night mask, body moisturizer, or as a spot treatment for dry patches. To improve your skin’s ability to tolerate avocado oil, be sure to buy organic avocado oil that is cold-pressed and unrefined. Although finding truly organic avocado oil can be a challenge, one high quality product worth noting is Bella Vado’s Premium California Organic Avocado Oil.

If you’re looking to experiment with skin care oils for the first time, there is almost no better oil to start with than organic hemp seed oil. Organic hemp seed oil is unique in that it has a very similar composition of fats and amino acids as our own natural oils, making it one of the most well tolerated carrier oils for all types. Hemp seed oil is made specifically from the seeds of the hemp plant and has a different composition than the plant itself. For example, there is no THC in organic hemp seed oil; thus, it is both legal and non-psychoactive unlike other parts of the cannabis plant. What hemp seed oil does include, however, is a huge amount of well-known powerful compounds like Vitamin E, Vitamin C, gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). In fact, no other oil is packed with as much essential fatty acids as hemp seed. Overall, hemp seed oil is an excellent emollient (hydrates skin), non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores), and improves the appearance by increasing circulation. Followers of the oil cleansing method (OCM) swear by the oil’s pore cleansing and acne fighting abilities as well as its ability to help dry skin maintain balanced moisture levels all day long. Always choose a truly organic hempseed oil that is raw, cold-pressed, and unrefined like US Organic USDA Organic Hemp Seed Oil or Nutiva’s Organic Hemp Oil.

As one of the world’s most expensive oils, organic argan oil (also known as liquid gold) is considered by many to be the holy grail of skin care oils. Like hempseed oil, argan oil boasts a high composition of essential fatty acids and plant sterols without clogging pores. The most powerful feature of organic argan oil is its ability to repair damage like acne scarring, stretch marks, and dryness. The Vitamin E in argan oil penetrates deep to improve elasticity while triterpenoids work to heal tissue scarring. At the same time, argan’s fatty acids are working to reduce redness, eliminate acne-causing bacteria, and rebalance sebum production to prevent future breakouts. Pure organic argan oil is extracted from the kernels of the argan tree: a plant native to Morocco and the Argan Forest. To this day, extracting authentic Moroccan argan oil is a highly labor intensive (and ancient) process done by local Moroccan Berber women (sometimes by hand). This contributes towards pure argan oil’s quality and high price tag. All in all, if expense isn’t an issue, organic argan oil makes for an awesome addition to any skin care regimen. The highest quality argan oils are cold-pressed, produced in Morocco, and are certified organic like Nourish Organics Certified Organic Argan Oil and Now Organic’s Certified Organic Argan Oil.

Organic sesame oil is extracted from the core of sesame seeds and can have a very strong nutty aroma. Sesame oil’s color and aroma can differ from product to product depending on whether the sesame seeds were toasted before extraction (resulting in a deep brown color and strong aroma as opposed to the odorless and pale yellow non-toasted seeds). The key benefits of sesame oil are its potent anti-aging powers which come from an antioxidant that is unique to sesame oil called sesamolin or sesamol. Sesame oil penetrates deeply into the epidermis and releases sesamol to fight the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines at a cellular level, resulting in an overall smoother and younger tone. Additionally, sesame oil can attract and remove oil-soluble toxins, making it fantastic for detoxification. Those suffering from acne might also want to check out sesame oil’s antibacterial and anti-fungal properties (known to kill even staphylococcus, streptococcus, and various skin fungi) by adding a few drops to your favorite night mask or spot treatment recipe. Because sesame oil has a thicker consistency than most carrier oils, just a little will go a long way. High-quality organic, cold-pressed, unrefined sesame oil products, like Kevala’s Extra Virgin Organic Sesame Oil or Aura Cacia USDA Organic Sesame Oil, are fairly inexpensive ways to add the power of sesame to your routine.

Organic rose oil is among the rarest and most expensive oils in the world. The most luxurious rose essential oil money can buy is made from tens of thousands of petals (picked at just the right time) from one of the rarest flowers in the world: the Bulgarian Rose Damascena or Rose Otto. The effort to harvest this rare oil is well worth it as studies have proven rose oil to be one of the strongest bactericidal oils available. One study even showed that rose oil was capable of killing propionibacterium (the bacteria that causes acne) just five minutes after application. Rose oils antiseptic and astringent properties makes it an excellent spot treatment for acne or other skin infections. If that wasn’t convincing enough, rose oil also contains eugenol, one of the most potent antioxidants around for mature, aging skin. Eugenol and the other antioxidants in rose oil work together to regenerate tissue as well as fade acne scars, stretch marks, surgery scars, and other skim imperfections. If you want to get your hands on high quality organic rose oil, be prepared to pay top dollar. For example, Alteya Organics is known for their ultra-luxury, authentic, certified organic Bulgarian Rose Oil which costs upwards of $400/oz. Alternatively, check out organic products which contain certified organic rose damascena oil like Osmia Organics Nectar Vital Rose Drops.

Organic sunflower seed oil is a gentle antioxidant-rich oil that is perfect for beginners. Made from cold-pressed sunflower seeds, sunflower seed oil is light and is easily absorbed without clogging pores. The most unique feature of sunflower seed oil is its high Vitamin E content — a potent antioxidant and regenerator that can actually help reverse and prevent sun damage, environmental damage, and premature aging caused by free radical damage. Additionally, organic sunflower seed oil protects precious collagen and elastin supply, resulting in a more toned youthful appearance. Like safflowers, sunflowers are members of the ragweed family and the oil should be avoided by those with ragweed allergies. Teenage skin and those who suffer from acne will also benefit because of sunflower seed oil’s potent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and low comedogenic properties. Continuous use can eliminate acne while significantly reducing water loss through the skin; thus, resulting in clear and hydrated look. Sunflower seed oil comes in three varieties: high, moderate, and low oleic acid (which explains the high oleic acid range above). Stick to low oleic acid content sunflower oil as the higher oleic acid content types will have a higher comedogenic rating. Other than that, the purest sunflower seed oil is going to be certified organic, unrefined, and cold-pressed like Dr. Adorable’s Organic Sunflower Oil.

Organic safflower oil is a gentle, highly moisturizing skin care oil with a similar makeup to sunflower oil. On average, however, safflower oil contains a higher percentage of linoleic acid and a lower percentage of oleic acid than its sunflower counterpart. Linoleic acid is excellent at breaking up blackheads, unclogging pores, and balancing sebum levels (excess sebum is one of the main causes of acne). This makes safflower oil a great carrier oil for the oil cleansing method–especially for acne-prone and oily types. Oily skin types might also enjoy using an organic safflower oil as a body moisturizer because of its light consistency and ability to absorb quickly. Although most types react well to safflower oil (it can even be applied to newborn skin), safflowers are members of the ragweed family and the oil should be avoided by those with ragweed allergies. Surprisingly, high quality organic safflower oil that is cold-pressed and unrefined can be quite difficult to find. To start, check out Dr. Adorable’s Organic Safflower Oil or Life-Flo’s Organic Pure Safflower Oil (may not be unrefined) as affordable options.

Jojoba oil is actually not an “oil” at all: it’s a liquid polyunsaturated wax which has a very similar consistency to our skin’s own natural consistency. Because of this, pure organic jojoba oil is hypoallergenic and safe for all types. When organic jojoba oil is applied, it seamlessly mixes with sebum and forms a thin, non-greasy layer of protection. This layer is porous enough to allow the skin to breathe yet cohesive enough to provide an excellent barrier against moisture loss. Jojoba oil is best suited for oily complexions because of its ability to balance excess oils by literally dissolving them. In addition to providing intense moisture, organic jojoba oil also fights acne-causing bacteria with its rich iodine content, unclogs pores and removes impurities, and fades fine lines. Some people have reported experiencing a “purge” of toxins (i.e. a small breakout) after using organic jojoba oil. This is normal and should pass within a few weeks (if you experience a “purge,” continue to use a small amount of jojoba oil nightly until it clears). High-quality organic jojoba oil is also referred to as golden grade jojoba oil because of its distinct golden color. Because jojoba is so popular, there are many organic, cold-pressed, unrefined, and affordable options available. A few well-reviewed options worth considering are Foxbrim’s 100% Certified Organic Jojoba Oil and Australian organic skin care giant Now’s Certified Organic Jojoba Oil.

Organic rosehip seed oil has earned quite a reputation over the years. Cheered by beauty experts and celebrities like Miranda Kerr as being “better than Botox,” rosehip seed oil has the ability to dramatically change the condition of your skin. For starters, rosehip seed oil is one of the richest plant sources of Vitamin C. Vitamin C has been proven to effectively stimulate collagen production, penetrate deeply to reduce redness, and increase cell turnover. The essential fatty acids within rosehip seed oil penetrate deeply into the skin where they work to neutralize free radicals, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and increase the skin’s permeability. The unique combination of fatty acids and vitamins come together to make organic rosehip seed oil a surprisingly great natural remedy for hyperpigmentation and sun-damage (although, everyone can use it to achieve a radiant complexion). Although rosehip seed can work well with oily and acne-prone types, it should not be applied directly onto active acne because it has been known to aggravate infections. Organic rosehip seed oil has a short shelf life and can go rancid very easily. As such, this delicate oil should be refrigerated or kept in a cool dark place. The highest quality rosehip seed oils use ingredients which are organically sourced from Chile, cold-pressed (or CO2 extracted), and unrefined like US Organic USDA Organic Rosehip Seed Oil, Trilogy’s Certified Organic Rosehip Oil, and Acure’s USDA Certified Organic Rosehip Seed Oil.

Organic tamanu oil (pronounced: TAW-Man-OO) is a legendary skin care oil with healing powers rivaling that of prescription antibiotics. Tamanu oil comes from the dried nuts of the Ati Tree in the South Pacific and has been used for centuries as an antimicrobial, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory oil.  Scientists across the globe have conducted extensive studies on organic tamanu oil with amazing results. Tamanu oil’s potency stems from its unique chemical makeup of fatty acids, coumarins, and xanthones. These anti-inflammatory compounds penetrate deeply where they have been proven to reduce swelling and chronic irritations (studies show that callophyllolide, a coumarin, is capable of measurably reducing histamine related inflammations of the skin). Another proven benefit of organic tamanu oil is its amazing ability to promote wound healing (cicatrization) and skin regeneration. Antibiotic compounds, such as lactone, inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria while anti-inflammatory and skin-regenerating compounds heal the skin. This feature of tamanu oil makes it a powerful wrinkle fighter and an ideal choice for aging and mature types. Organic tamanu oil has a thick consistency and very distinct pungent smell; thus, some might prefer to use it as a spot treatment or mix it with other carrier oils. As with all skin care products, purity is key. The purest organic tamanu oils are going to be sourced from the South Pacific, cold-pressed, unrefined, and certified organic like Aura Cacia Nourishing Tamanu Oil.

Organic camellia oil was the best-kept secret of Chinese geisha women for centuries. Camellia oil is cold-pressed from the seeds of the Camellia plant and, depending on which variety of Camellia plant used to make the oil, goes by various names like tea oil (camellia oleifera), Tsubaki oil (camellia Japonica), tea seed oil (camellia sinensis). Like jojoba oil, organic camellia oil also contains the compound squalene (which also exists in our own natural oil make up) which allows camellia oil to work with almost any complexion. Specifically, those with dry, acne-prone, and aging types will benefit the most from camellia oil. Dry skin types should note that organic camellia oil is rich in oleic acid, a fatty acid that is highly effective at penetrating deeply where it both increases and maintains healthy moisture levels.  Camellia oil is great for those suffering from acne as it has anti-microbial, cicatrizant (promotes wound healing), anti-inflammatory, and mild astringent properties. Last, but certainly not least, organic camellia oil is a potent anti-aging elixir. When you’re deficient in squalene it can trigger the onset of premature aging symptoms like wrinkles and sagging. Organic camellia oil is packed with squalene and continuous use can help to replenish the supply of this key emollient. While organic camellia oil is a great skin care oil, it is just starting to make its way onto the scene and finding pure organic camellia oil can be a challenge. A few highly reviewed, certified organic, unrefined, and cold-pressed options are Fushi Japanese Organic Camellia Oil, Garden of Wisdom’s Organic Camellia Oil, and Julie Hewett’s 100% Certified Organic Camellia Oil.

Unlike the other oils on this list, organic calendula oil cannot be obtained in a pure form and. Steam distillation is used to extract some of the oil from parts of the flower; however, in order to extract the oil from the petals of the calendula flower they must be steeped in another carrier oil (like olive oil). This makes calendula oil an essential oil infusion rather than a pure essential oil or pure carrier oil. With that said, organic calendula oil offers tremendous benefits for  aging, inflamed or irritated skin. The oil has been shown to kill several strains of antibiotic resistant bacteria (making it great weapon against acne causing bacteria) and candida. Additionally, organic calendula oil contains acids which aid wound healing and the formation of new skin. Other great benefits of calendula oil is its ability to soften scars, treat varicose veins, and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. If you are allergic to any plants from the Asteraceae or Compositae families (like ragweed, chamomile, Echinacea, etc.), then it is best to avoid calendula oil as it is a member of that family. The best kind of calendula oil for is one that uses organic calendula flowers and extracts the oil into an organic cold-pressed carrier oil (like Herb Pharm’s Certified Organic Calendula Oil and Herbal Choice Mari Organic Calendula Oil).