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Coconut Oil: Does This Skincare Superstar Clog Pores?

It’s been long debated whether or not this oil clogs pores and if it’s the cause of acne breakouts. While some swear by it, others point to their own little eruptions of coconut oil caused acne. So, let’s answer the question, does coconut oil clog pores?

Read on

It’s been a few years since coconut oil burst onto the skincare scene. In its heyday, it was hailed as a multitasking cure-all. The laundry list of uses for coconut oil is undeniably long and varied. But, the question should be asked, does coconut oil clog pores? While it might have a place in our kitchens, it perhaps doesn’t belong on our vanities.

It’s been long debated whether or not this oil clogs pores and if it’s the cause of acne breakouts. While some swear by it, others point to their own little eruptions of coconut oil caused acne. So, let’s answer the question, does coconut oil clog pores?

The elephant in the room: coconut oil is high on the comedogenic scale

The comedo- what scale? In plain terms, oils that are high on the comedogenic scale have a higher likelihood of clogging up follicular openings (aka pores). Oils that are lower on this scale are far less likely to clog your pores (these are called non-comedogenic oils).  

The rating ranges from 0 to 5. Coconut oil rates at a 4. Eeek. That’s high.

So, does coconut oil clog pores? The likelihood of this happening is pretty high.

Coconut oil doesn’t absorb well into the skin

Coconut oil is very thick, which makes it harder to absorb into the skin. This can cause the oil to sit on top of the skin (instead of sinking in) and essentially traps dead skin cells, sebum, and bacteria on the surface of your skin.

This can lead to trapped substances clogging up your pores. This can be especially risky for those with oily skin as using coconut oil could trap the excess sebum.

Will it cause clogged pores in everyone?

Not quite, which is why this debate is so hotly contested. The risk with coconut oil is creating clogged pores which can be a precursor to acne.

Using comedogenic oils as a moisturizer, or make-up remover could aggravate acne or cause closed comedones. (We know, this is not great news.)But not everyone will react the same.

If you’ve used coconut oil with great success -- don’t let us stop you. However, if you are acne-prone or have oily skin, it’s recommended to opt for non-comedogenic oils instead.

Read more: The Best Facial Oils That Won't Clog Your Pores

You can let your skin be the indicator of whether or not an oil works for you or not. If you do end up breaking out after using coconut oil, opt for oils with a comedogenic rating of 1, like rosehip or jojoba oil.

There are pros and cons to coconut oil

  • While coconut oil might not be great for the acne-prone, it can be beneficial for those with eczema as coconut oil helps with transepidermal water loss.
  • It can be a good body moisturizer. When it comes to your body you don’t have to worry as much about the comedogenic scale.
  • Some believe coconut oil to be acne fighting because it contains lauric acid. However, there are far more effective acne treatments that don’t come with the risk of clogging pores and causing more acne. It’s just not worth it in our opinion.

Prescription Tretinoin keeps pores clear

Tretinoin is a powerful prescription medication that works as a comedolytic to keep pore blockages from happening in the first place. It’s like a cheat code for your skin. Clogged pores are bad news for everyone.

Keep your pores clear by regularly using Tretinoin. Learn more about our Strut Acne Formula and Strut Anti Aging Formula, both of which use the power of Tretinoin.

If you’re ready for clear skin, complete a free questionnaire-based doctor's consultation online to see if our Tretinoin treatments are right for you. If our doctors find this is a good fit for you, we’ll ship it right to your door.

Summary

  • Yes, coconut oil has the potential to clog pores. According to the comedogenic scale, a scale that assesses the risk of clogged pores, coconut oil is listed as a high risk.
  • Coconut oil does not absorb well into the skin, which can cause clogged pores.
  • Coconut oil is not recommended for those with acne-prone skin.
  • Tretinoin can works as a comedolytic, breaking up clogged pores.
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