Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil: Potential Drawbacks for Sensitive, Oily Skin Types

The Science of Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil in Skin Care

Hydrogenated vegetable oil is a common ingredient found in many skincare products, but how exactly does it affect your skin?

This ingredient might sound technical, but it plays an important role in formulating various lotions, creams, and other beauty products.

In this article, we will break down what hydrogenated vegetable oil is, its potential benefits, possible drawbacks, and the types of skin that may or may not benefit from this ingredient.

To ensure you’re choosing the best skincare products for your specific skin type, take our Baumann Skin Type quiz for free!

What is Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil?

Hydrogenated vegetable oil is derived from a blend of oils extracted from plant sources, such as soybeans, sunflowers, rapeseed (canola), and olives.

These natural oils contain a mixture of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, along with antioxidants and other beneficial compounds like polyphenols and vitamin E.

The process of creating hydrogenated vegetable oil involves heating the oil blend to very high temperatures and then bubbling hydrogen gas through the mixture.

This process, called hydrogenation, alters the chemical structure of the oils, making their unsaturated fatty acids more saturated by adding hydrogen molecules.

As a result, the oil becomes solid or semi-solid at room temperature, which makes it easier to formulate into various skincare products.

While the hydrogenation process itself is relatively straightforward, the composition of the final oil can vary significantly depending on the specific types of oils used and the hydrogenation method. This variability can make it challenging to consistently predict how hydrogenated vegetable oil will behave in skincare formulations.

For example, some hydrogenated oils may offer more moisturizing benefits, while others may be more occlusive or prone to clogging pores.

Skin Benefits of Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil

Hydrogenated vegetable oil isn’t just a filler in cosmetic formulations – it has several properties that can benefit the skin in specific ways.

Here are some key benefits of hydrogenated vegetable oil in skincare:

1. Skin Barrier Repair

The skin’s natural barrier, composed of lipids like ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids, plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from moisture loss and environmental damage.

The fatty acids found in hydrogenated vegetable oil can help reinforce and repair this moisture barrier, preventing water loss and improving overall skin hydration.

This can be especially beneficial for those with dry, flaky, or compromised skin.

2. Anti-inflammatory Effects

Hydrogenated vegetable oil contains unsaturated fatty acids like oleic acid, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties.

These fatty acids can soothe and calm irritated skin, making this ingredient helpful for individuals with sensitive skin or those prone to conditions like eczema or dermatitis.

Additionally, the presence of other fatty acids like linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid is often used in products aimed at repairing the skin barrier and reducing inflammation.

3. Increased Ingredient Absorption

The occlusive nature of hydrogenated vegetable oil means that it forms a protective layer on the skin’s surface, helping to lock in moisture and keep other ingredients from evaporating.

This barrier effect can also aid in the absorption and penetration of other active ingredients in skincare products.

For example, in formulations with retinoids, hydrogenated vegetable oil can help slow the absorption process, allowing these compounds to work more effectively over time.

4. Anti-aging Properties

Hydrogenated vegetable oil contains antioxidants such as vitamin E and polyphenols, which can help neutralize free radicals that damage skin cells.

Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that can lead to oxidative stress, accelerating the aging process of the skin.

By neutralizing these free radicals, hydrogenated vegetable oil may help protect the skin from premature aging and reduce the visible signs of wrinkles and fine lines.

Additionally, its presence in sunscreens can add thickness to the formula, providing more UV protection.

5. Moisturizing Properties

As a lipid-based ingredient, hydrogenated vegetable oil can help provide deep moisturization to dry, flaky skin.

By physically penetrating the skin and replenishing essential lipids, it helps to restore moisture levels and maintain hydration.

Additionally, its occlusive properties prevent the evaporation of water from the skin, leading to long-lasting moisturization.

Drawbacks of Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil

While hydrogenated vegetable oil offers several benefits, it’s not without its potential drawbacks.

Depending on your skin type and concerns, you may want to approach this ingredient with caution. Here are some considerations:

1. Comedogenicity (Pore-Clogging)

One of the primary concerns with hydrogenated vegetable oil is its occlusive nature.

While this helps lock in moisture, it can also create a barrier that traps excess oil, dirt, and bacteria inside the pores.

For individuals with oily or acne-prone skin, this can lead to clogged pores, blackheads, and the potential for breakouts.

If you have acne-prone skin, it may be a good idea to avoid products containing hydrogenated vegetable oil or opt for formulations specifically labeled as non-comedogenic.

2. Inconsistent Formula

Because the composition of hydrogenated vegetable oil can vary significantly depending on the oils used in the blend, the resulting product may not always perform the same way.

For example, some hydrogenated oils may be more hydrating, while others may have a thicker, more occlusive texture that could feel heavy on the skin.

This variability can make it difficult to predict how your skin will react, especially if you are sensitive to certain ingredients or fragrances.

3. Environmental Impact

The hydrogenation process requires high temperatures and hydrogen gas, making it more energy-intensive than the production of natural, unprocessed plant oils.

This means that hydrogenated vegetable oil can have a higher environmental impact compared to alternatives like cold-pressed oils.

Additionally, the use of certain plant-based oils in hydrogenated vegetable oil (such as palm oil) may contribute to deforestation and other environmental concerns.

If you are environmentally conscious, look for brands that emphasize sustainable sourcing or choose skincare products that utilize more eco-friendly oils.

Who Should Use Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil?

Best for:

Dry skin: The moisturizing and occlusive properties of hydrogenated vegetable oil make it an excellent choice for individuals with dry, dehydrated skin.

Mature skin: The skin barrier-repairing benefits and antioxidant properties can help restore hydration and protect against aging.

Sensitive skin: If your skin is prone to irritation, the anti-inflammatory properties of hydrogenated vegetable oil can help calm and soothe the skin.

Dull or uneven skin: The nourishing lipids in hydrogenated vegetable oil can help improve the texture of the skin and give it a healthier, more radiant appearance.

Avoid if:

Oily or acne-prone skin: The occlusive nature of hydrogenated vegetable oil can trap oil and impurities in the skin, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.

Those with skin sensitivities to oils: If you have an allergy or sensitivity to certain oils, it’s important to check the ingredient list to ensure the product doesn’t contain hydrogenated vegetable oil.

Environmental concerns: If sustainability is a priority for you, consider avoiding hydrogenated vegetable oils, particularly those sourced from palm oil or non-renewable agricultural practices.

Conclusion

Hydrogenated vegetable oil is a versatile ingredient that can offer moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging benefits for the skin, particularly for those with dry, mature, or sensitive skin. Its ability to repair the skin barrier, soothe irritation, and aid in the absorption of other active ingredients makes it a valuable addition to many skincare products.

However, its occlusive properties can lead to clogged pores for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin, so it’s essential to consider your skin type before incorporating products containing this ingredient.

As with any skincare product, it’s always best to choose products based on your Baumann Skin Type, as individual needs and concerns vary.

Consulting with a dermatologist can also help guide your decisions to ensure you are selecting ingredients that are best suited to your skin’s unique requirements.

Find your Baumann Skin Type by taking our free quiz today, and start your journey toward healthier, more radiant skin!

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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