Can coconut oil clog your pores?

Dr. Shilpi Khetarpal, a dermatologist at Cleveland Clinic, told SELF that a ‘comedo’ or ‘comedone’ is essentially the earliest form of acne. “It’s basically a clogged pore,” she said. In other words, if your skin is prone to acne, it’s best to stay away from products that are deemed to be comedogenic, such as coconut oil. 

As Austin explained to Byrdie, coconut oil is too thick for your skin to absorb, meaning it simply acts as a coat of oil that sits on top of your skin without sinking in. “Bacteria and dead skin cells will then fester under the skin and cause your body to produce excess sebum, which can result in acne,” elaborates Austin.

Different skin types may react to coconut oil positively or negatively, but most experts agree that it should never be used as a moisturizer, no matter the quality. If you’re looking for other ways to use your coconut oil in your beauty routine, Estheticians Rebecca Hebert and Lindsay Royston of Joanna Czech Studio suggest using it in place of makeup remover. Otherwise, keep it away from your face and put it back in the kitchen cupboard, where it belongs.