Soybean oil is a common ingredient in many skincare products and is often praised for its moisturizing properties. However, concerns about its potential to clog pores, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin, have led to questions about its comedogenicity. In this article, we will explore whether soybean oil clogs pores, its comedogenicity rating, and tips for using it effectively in your skincare routine.

Comedogenicity refers to the likelihood of a substance to clog pores, which can lead to the formation of comedones such as blackheads and whiteheads. Ingredients are rated on a scale from 0 to 5, where:

0: Non-comedogenic (won't clog pores)
1: Slightly comedogenic
2: Moderately comedogenic
3: Fairly comedogenic
4: Highly comedogenic
5: Very likely to clog pores

Soybean oil has a comedogenicity index that ranges from 2 to 3, indicating a moderate likelihood of clogging pores. This means that while it can be used by individuals with oily or acne-prone skin, it should be applied with caution. The oil's effects can vary based on its concentration in products and individual skin types (Typology, Curology).

Quality of Oil: Oils extracted through cold pressing tend to have a lower comedogenicity index compared to those extracted through other methods. Higher quality soybean oil is less likely to clog pores.
Skin Type: Individuals with oily skin may experience more issues with clogged pores when using soybean oil, while those with dry skin might benefit from its moisturizing properties (Curology, Ann Marie Gianni).

Despite its potential to clog pores, soybean oil offers several benefits:

Rich in Fatty Acids: It contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are beneficial for skin hydration and overall health.
Antioxidant Properties: Soybean oil is high in antioxidants, which can help protect the skin from environmental stressors (Byrdie).
Moisturizing Effects: It can provide effective hydration, making it suitable for dry skin types when used appropriately.

If you have oily or acne-prone skin but still wish to incorporate soybean oil into your routine, consider the following tips:

Use Sparingly: Limit application to 2-3 drops to avoid overwhelming your skin.
Combine with Non-Comedogenic Oils: Mix soybean oil with lighter oils like jojoba or grapeseed oil, which are less likely to clog pores.
Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before using a new product to see how your skin reacts.

If you’re concerned about the potential for clogged pores, consider using non-comedogenic oils such as:

Jojoba Oil: Mimics the skin's natural sebum and is unlikely to clog pores.
Grapeseed Oil: Lightweight and rich in linoleic acid, making it suitable for oily skin.
Hemp Seed Oil: Contains anti-inflammatory properties and is non-comedogenic (Ann Marie Gianni).

In summary, soybean oil has a moderate comedogenicity rating, making it a potential concern for those with oily or acne-prone skin. However, when used in moderation and combined with other non-comedogenic oils, it can still provide beneficial hydration and nourishment. Always consider your skin type and perform patch tests to ensure that your skincare routine works for you.

Typology. "Soybean Oil: Comedogenic or Not?" Read here.
Curology. "Non-comedogenic oils: facts vs. fiction." Read here.
Byrdie. "The 7 Best Non-Comedogenic Oils for Skin." Read here.
Ann Marie Gianni. "10 Types of Oils to Avoid for Oily Skin & Clogged Pores." Read here.