Can People with Closed Comedones Use Coconut Oil Cleansing Oil? The Science Says Yes

Can People with Closed Comedones Use Coconut Oil Cleansing Oil? The Science Says Yes

Many women with closed comedones (CCs) worry that coconut oil is too heavy for their skin. The truth is, it’s not the coconut oil itself that causes clogged pores—it’s the formula design, ingredient ratios, and how the product is used.

Our coconut oil-based cleansing oil has been safely used by consumers long-term with virtually no reports of CCs, and here’s why.

Why Coconut Oil Cleansing Oil Can Be Safe for CC-Prone Skin

1. Emulsification and Dilution Are Key

Coconut oil is naturally thick and considered highly comedogenic. In our formula, it’s blended with Palmityl Ethylhexanoate, Polyglyceryl-10 Diisostearate, and Polyglyceryl-6 Di-caprylate, which act as lightweight emulsifiers.
These ingredients disperse the coconut oil evenly and make it easy to rinse off. Proper emulsification prevents a heavy oil film from lingering in pores, lowering the risk of closed comedones.

2. Low-Comedogenic Oils Support Skin Health

We combine coconut oil with jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, sunflower oil, and olive oil. These oils are lightweight, hydrating, and unlikely to clog pores, helping to maintain skin balance while supporting the cleansing effect.

3. Soothing and Antioxidant Benefits

Bisabolol, Vitamin E, and ginger root extract provide calming and antioxidant protection, reducing inflammation and further lowering the chance of CCs forming.

Plant Oil Comedogenic Risk Reference

Risk Level Oils Notes
High (use cautiously) Coconut oil, palm oil, cocoa butter, wheat germ oil, unrefined almond oil Thick oils, higher risk of pore blockage
Medium (observe reactions) Olive oil, flaxseed oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil Can cause CCs in some people
Low (relatively safe) Jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, evening primrose oil, refined almond oil, jojoba+grapeseed blend Lightweight, safe for CC-prone skin

Key takeaway: Having closed comedones does not mean you must avoid all plant oils. Properly formulated coconut oil cleansing oils with emulsifiers, low-comedogenic oils, and soothing ingredients can be safe, gentle, and effective for cleansing.

Tips for Safe Use

  1. Emulsify thoroughly: Apply to dry skin, massage, and add water to turn it milky before rinsing.

  2. Rinse completely: Ensure no oil film remains on the skin.

  3. Adjust frequency: For sensitive or CC-prone skin, consider nighttime use or blending with other low-comedogenic oils.


Back to blog