What Is Jojoba Oil's Comedogenic Rating?

Applying oil to your face might seem daunting, especially if you are prone to breakouts. However, the benefits of using high-quality oils far outweigh any concerns. This is especially true if you choose one with a low chance of clogging your pores. Jojoba oil’s low comedogenic rating makes it a popular choice for people with acne-prone skin. 

Will Jojoba Oil Clog Pores?

The comedogenic rating of jojoba oil can range between zero and two, depending on the raw source. This means it is generally not likely to clog pores. 

Comedogenic ratings range from zero (does not clog pores) to five (highly likely to clog pores). Even a rating of two means that an oil has a moderately low chance of clogging pores. For this reason, many people choose Jojoba oil-based skin care products for acne-prone or oily skin. 

Why Is the Comedogenic Rating of Jojoba Oil So Low?

Despite its name, jojoba oil is not actually an oil. It is a liquid wax ester, which sets it apart from other plant oils. A liquid wax ester consists of a fatty acid and fatty alcohol bonded together. These compounds are very stable and resist oxidation. The molecular structure of jojoba oil is very similar to human sebum, or the oil produced by the skin. It is considered biomimetic and is very well tolerated by most people. 

What Are the Benefits of Using Jojoba Oil?

There are many benefits beyond jojoba oil’s comedogenic rating. For example, it is highly moisturizing, making it a great choice for skin and hair care products. You can use pure jojoba oil to soothe and moisturize acne-prone skin. Some other benefits include:

• Antioxidant: Jojoba oil’s high antioxidant content helps brighten the skin by reducing dullness and uneven tone while also protecting against environmental damage and free radicals. Many people note anti-aging benefits when using it. 
• Anti-inflammatory: Many users find that jojoba oil helps reduce redness and inflammation. This makes it a favorite beauty product ingredient among people who experience frequent breakouts. 
• Antimicrobial: The phenolic properties in jojoba oil help it slow or stop the growth of several types of bacteria and fungi that can infect the skin. 

Because of its biocompatibility, which allows it to mimic the skin's natural oils without causing irritation, and its low comedogenic rating, jojoba oil is an excellent base for pore-minimizing products. These can help reduce the appearance of pores while promoting overall skin health. For example, the Balanced Skin™ Pore Minimizing Clay Mint Mask uses it along with bentonite clay and wheat germ oil to create a nourishing deep treatment. 

Clinically Approved Skincare Products With Jojoba Oil