Canola Oil in Skincare: Benefits, Risks, and Dermatologists' Insights

Is Canola Oil Safe for Skin? Dermatologists Weigh In

Oils have seamlessly integrated into our beauty routines, offering a myriad of benefits for skin, hair, and overall wellness. From moisturizing serums to nourishing cleansers, oils have taken center stage in many skincare regimens. But when it comes to oils commonly found in our kitchens—such as olive, avocado, and almond oils—it’s only natural to wonder if they are safe for our skin. The good news is that for most oils, yes, they are. However, not all oils are created equal. This leads us to an important question: Is canola oil safe for the skin?

To find out, we consulted with two board-certified dermatologists—Elaine F. Kung, MD, FAAD, and Jodi LoGerfo, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, DCNP—to get expert insights on whether canola oil is a good skincare ingredient and how it stacks up in comparison to other oils.

Let’s dive into the details of this commonly used kitchen oil and its potential benefits (and drawbacks) for your skin.

Meet the Experts

Before we explore the ins and outs of canola oil, let’s introduce the professionals who shared their insights on the topic:

Elaine F. Kung, MD, FAAD is a clinical assistant professor at Weill-Cornell Medical College and the founder of Future Bright Dermatology. She specializes in dermatologic care and has a deep understanding of skincare ingredients.

Jodi LoGerfo, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, DCNP is a celebrity dermatologist at Orentreich Medical Group, LLP. With years of experience in dermatology, she provides expert guidance on skin health and skincare routines.

What Is Canola Oil?

Canola oil is a plant-based oil extracted from the seeds of the canola plant (a variety of rapeseed). While the term “rapeseed oil” is often used for industrial applications, canola oil refers specifically to the edible oil derived from genetically modified rapeseed plants. The canola oil we commonly use in cooking was first developed in Canada in 1979, designed for culinary purposes and now widely used in kitchens and manufacturing worldwide.

Unlike olive oil, which is known for its rich antioxidants and health benefits, or coconut oil, which has gained popularity for its moisturizing properties, canola oil is still a relatively new addition to the skincare world. However, it is beginning to find its place in various skincare, haircare, and cosmetic products.

Benefits of Canola Oil for Skin

Canola oil may be an unexpected contender in the world of skincare oils, but it has notable benefits that make it a worthy ingredient in various formulations. Here’s why:

1. Moisture Retention

One of the key benefits of canola oil is its ability to help retain moisture in the skin. Dr. Kung explains that canola oil is considered “semi-occlusive,” meaning it helps reduce transepidermal water loss (the loss of moisture through the skin). This is particularly beneficial for individuals with dry skin, as it keeps the skin hydrated and prevents dehydration.

2. Essential Fatty Acids and Skin Health

Canola oil contains a balanced ratio of oleic acid and linoleic acid—essential fatty acids that are critical for healthy skin. Dr. Kung highlights that this ratio closely mirrors the natural fatty acid composition of the skin, allowing it to support the skin’s protective barrier.

These fatty acids are important for maintaining the skin’s natural oils, improving elasticity, and enhancing overall skin health.

3. Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants

Canola oil is a rich source of vitamins K, C, and E, as well as other antioxidants. These nutrients are crucial for promoting healthy, glowing skin and can help combat signs of aging. Dr. LoGerfo points out that vitamin E can protect the skin from free radical damage (which accelerates aging) while also providing anti-inflammatory effects.

Additionally, vitamin K has been shown to help with blood circulation and can assist in reducing dark under-eye circles, while vitamin C can brighten the complexion and assist in reducing hyperpigmentation, blemishes, and uneven skin tone.

Potential Side Effects and Considerations for Acne-Prone Skin

While canola oil offers many benefits, it is essential to consider its possible drawbacks—particularly if you have acne-prone skin.

Dr. LoGerfo warns that canola oil has a comedogenic rating of 4, which means it has the potential to clog pores. The comedogenic rating system ranks oils on a scale from 0 to 5, with higher numbers indicating a higher likelihood of clogging pores. For reference, oils with a lower rating, like argan oil or grapeseed oil, tend to be better choices for acne-prone skin.

Although canola oil is rich in fatty acids that can theoretically support healthy skin, acne-prone individuals may find that using products formulated with canola oil can exacerbate breakouts. The oil can trap excess sebum in the pores, leading to clogged pores and potentially worsening acne.

How to Use Canola Oil on Skin

Given the risk of clogged pores, it is advised that individuals with acne-prone skin avoid applying pure canola oil directly to their faces. Instead, you can opt for products that include canola oil as a secondary ingredient in a well-balanced formula. These products typically combine canola oil with other beneficial ingredients that counterbalance its pore-clogging potential, providing nourishment without the risk of irritation.

How to Incorporate Canola Oil into Your Skincare Routine

If you decide to incorporate canola oil into your skincare routine, there are a few options to consider. Here’s how you can use it safely and effectively:

1. Look for Skincare Products Containing Canola Oil

Rather than applying pure canola oil to your skin, it’s better to look for skincare and haircare products that contain it as one of the ingredients. Many moisturizers, cleansers, serums, conditioners, and face masks incorporate canola oil due to its moisturizing and antioxidant-rich properties. These products are carefully formulated to ensure the oil’s effectiveness without clogging pores.

2. Patch Test Before Full Application

As with any new skincare ingredient, it’s always a good idea to perform a patch test before using any product containing canola oil all over your face or body. Apply a small amount of the product to a discreet area of skin (like the inside of your elbow) and monitor for any signs of irritation, redness, or breakouts.

3. Focus on Dry Areas

Canola oil is especially beneficial for dry or flaky skin areas. It can be applied to the body, particularly to areas like the elbows, knees, and heels, to lock in moisture and prevent rough, dry patches.

The Final Takeaway

In summary, canola oil can be a valuable ingredient in skincare when used correctly. With its rich array of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, it can effectively moisturize and nourish the skin, reduce water loss, and provide protective benefits. However, if you have acne-prone skin, you should be cautious when using canola oil or products containing it, as it may clog pores and exacerbate breakouts.

Important Tips:

Always opt for products with canola oil as one of many ingredients, rather than applying it directly to the skin.

Patch test any new products containing canola oil before full application.

If you experience irritation, breakouts, or discomfort after using a product with canola oil, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.

For most people, though, canola oil can be a safe and beneficial addition to your skincare routine—just be mindful of your skin type and any potential sensitivities.

If you’re uncertain about using canola oil in your skincare, it’s always a good idea to consult with a trusted dermatologist to make the best choice for your skin’s unique needs.

DQH Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C? It’s easy to create a skincare routine, but knowing how to use it is another thing entirely. In most cases, if you’re not getting the desired skin results, it could be due to the layering of conflicting ingredients. So, is it possible that salicylic acid and vitamin C are such ingredients? Or are these active ingredients the duo that’s been missing from your skincare routine? If you want answers, stick around because today we are going to explain the benefits of salicylic acid and vitamin C and how they can be used in your daily life. What are the benefits of salicylic acid for skin? Salicylic acid is one of the most commonly used beta hydroxy acids and is favored by many people with oily, acne-prone skin. This acid is derived from willow bark, and unlike its water-soluble relatives (called alpha-hydroxy acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble, which means it can penetrate deeper into the lower layers of the skin. Once it reaches the lower layers, it can help unclog pores of excess sebum, dirt, bacteria, debris, and impurities. This results in clearer skin tones and greater definition. Not only does salicylic acid benefit the underlying layers, but the outer surface of the skin benefits as well. When applied to the skin, salicylic acid removes the buildup of dead skin cells. This is accomplished by breaking the bonds that hold dead cells to the surface. Over time, this can cause the complexion to look dull and prone to acne, blackheads, and other blemishes. If you’d like to learn more about salicylic acid and how it can improve your skin, check out this dedicated blog post from a beauty insider. What are the benefits of vitamin C for skin? Vitamin C is considered one of the most powerful antioxidants, which means it is very effective at fighting free radicals and preventing them from causing further skin damage. Examples of free radicals include pollution, central heating, UV rays and harsh climate. They attack proteins, fats and cell membranes as soon as they come into contact with the skin, causing signs of premature aging such as fine lines and wrinkles as well as hyperpigmentation, flaky patches of skin and loss of elasticity. Many people usually prefer to use vitamin C in their morning routine as this ingredient gives the complexion a radiant glow. You’ll also find that vitamin C can target areas of hyperpigmentation, plumping the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The thing about vitamin C is that there are a lot of outdated studies going back to the 1950s that describe vitamin C as an unstable skin component. Thanks to improvements in modern technology, this is no longer the case as all products now contain a stable form of vitamin C. Visit The Beauty Insider to learn more about vitamin C. So please check out our blog post. Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C? Yes, you absolutely can. In fact, it’s thought that using salicylic acid before using vitamin C ensures it penetrates faster and works faster. This is an efficient way to utilize two power sources, and the reason has to do with pH. For example, the skin’s natural pH is about 4.7, making it slightly acidic. Salicylic acid and vitamin C are also both acidic, and you’ll find that vitamin C is absorbed quickly into the skin. Therefore, using salicylic acid beforehand can increase the acidity of the skin and allow vitamin C to penetrate into the skin faster. While this is considered an effective way to combine two powerful ingredients, you need to be aware of your skin type and how it reacts to certain active ingredients. Even people with perfect, normal skin can experience skin sensitivity and irritation. Therefore, always consult a doctor or dermatologist before using any new products on your skin. It’s also important to follow skin application rules. In this case, you need to use the product correctly to ensure you get the best results for your skin. If you’re not sure what I mean, the basic rule for skin is to start with the thinnest consistency and work your way up to the thickest consistency. This prevents a barrier from forming on the surface, preventing other active ingredients from penetrating the skin. Can I use salicylic acid at night and vitamin C in the morning? Yes, absolutely, this is considered the most effective way to get returns without any adverse side effects. This is because there is enough time between applications to ensure that the skin’s pH levels return to balance. You’ll also find that Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants and is perfect for use in the morning to ensure your skin is protected and looking its healthiest. Due to the small size of salicylic acid molecules, it is an acid that is able to reach the deepest parts of the skin. While this is effective at keeping skin clear, it also increases the risk of irritation and photosensitivity. Therefore, many people prefer to use powerful BHAs in their evening routine without exposure to UV rays, pollution, or harsh weather. Warning: If you avoid using sunscreen every day, none of these ingredients will do what your skin needs. The combination of chemical peels and powerful ingredients increases the risk of further damage to the skin’s surface. Use SPF 50 every day to keep your skin protected and your lipid barrier healthy, even on cloudy days, keeping your skin in top condition.

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