Is Cocoa Butter Good for Oily Skin?

Is Cocoa Butter Good for Oily Skin? When it comes to cocoa butter, there’s nothing that can convince us it could not meet the needs of our skin or our favorite recipes. While cocoa butter is touted as the savior for dry skin, it is not advisable to use to on oily skin.

Oily skin, especially on the face, may find cocoa butter too greasy, despite its skin-protecting antioxidants and plumping fatty acids.

So The fact that cocoa butter is comedogenic makes it inappropriate for oily skin, especially on the face. Natural emollients like this are ideal for body areas other than the face.

In comparison to the skin on your body, your face’s skin has thinner tissue, making it more prone to breakouts. It is because of this that cocoa butter can sometimes be too thick to use on your face. Therefore, cocoa butter should be avoided by those with oily or acne-prone skin.

Are There Special Products for oily skin?

Since using cocoa butter on oily skin may cause breakouts, special products that are dermatologically tested are now on the market to help you keep your face glowing and nourished.

Let’s look at the best products for oily skin.

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
  • Cleanses deep down into pores with conditioners
  • Oil-free cleanser features a clinically proven MicroClear technology 
  • Residue- and oil-free formula is non-comedogenic so it won't clog pores
  • Use this acne face wash as part of a daily skincare routine
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
  • OIL FREE NIGHT LOTION
  • OVERNIGHT MOISTURIZER
  • ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES
  • DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED
  • GENTLE ON SKIN
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Fighting Face Wash
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Fighting Face Wash
  • Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Face Wash with 2% salicylic acid 
  • Cleanses deep down into pores with conditioners
  • Oil-free cleanser features a clinically proven MicroClear technology 
  • Residue- and oil-free formula is non-comedogenic so it won't clog pores
  • Use this acne face wash as part of a daily skincare routine

1. The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Serum

The Ordinary Azelaic is an alternative if you have oily skin prone to acne. It can be used to treat both blemishes and dark spots. It has 10% azelaic acid to brighten your skin and is cruelty-free, vegan, and gentle enough to use twice a day.

Furthermore, it improves the evenness of skin texture and reduces the visibility of flaws.

You can use it twice a day on your face to improve the brightness and texture of your skin. During the day, wear sunscreen to protect your eyes and lips from the sun.

Pros

  • Smoothes skin
  • Even skin tone
  • Help treat Rosacea
  • Contains Azelaic Acid
  • Treats blemishes and dark spots
  • Treats acne-prone sensitive skin

Cons

  • The smell may not be favourable to some

2. CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion

Hydration and oil-free products, like as CeraVe daily moisturiser, can be highly beneficial for acne. The brand’s oil-free overnight moisturiser with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and other ceramides offers necessary moisture throughout the night.

CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizer seals in moisture and helps repair your skin’s natural barrier as you sleep.

Pros

  • Oil-free
  • Lightweight
  • non-comedogenic
  • Contain niacinamide
  • Nourishes your skin’s natural barrier

Cons

  • Not thick as some may want it

3. Neutrogena Oil-Free Salicylic Acid Acne Wash

The oil-free salicylic acid acne cleanser from Neutrogena cleans pores while also soothing acne. It contains lipo-hydroxy acid, a milder acne therapy. It is suitable for most skin types because it is free of oils, fragrances, and parabens.

In a single step, this powerful acne treatment and cleanser treats and prevents breakouts. The oil-free cleanser not only gently washes deep into pores for clear skin, but it also includes salicylic acid, which aids in the clearing of acne and the prevention of future breakouts.

Pros

  • Oil-free
  • Rinses clean 
  • Non-irritating skin
  • Non-comedogenic 
  • Dermatologist tested
  • Contain Salicylic Acid
  • Acne-fighting facial cleanser

Cons

  • Some users prefer fragrance and foam.

What is cocoa butter?

Cocoa butter is healthy fat from cocoa beans. The cocoa butter content of cocoa nibs ranges from 54 to 58%.  It smells like chocolate and has numerous benefits. It has a yellowish or pale cream colour and is solid at room temperature, depending on where or how it is produced.

It melts at 35 and 37 degrees Celsius. Cocoa butter is mostly used as a skin moisturiser around the world, but its health advantages are influencing its use in the kitchen and food processing industries.

Cocoa butter is a dry hair treatment that works on African strands to make them simpler to comb. Cocoa butter has a significant concentration of saturated lipids as well as monounsaturated oleic acid.

Is Cocoa Butter Good For Your Face?

The skin on the face is extremely delicate. If you have oily skin, applying cocoa butter to it can increase its oil production. People with oily skin are usually advised to use a water-based moisturiser that is free of heavy chemicals.

Cocoa butter, on the other hand, is beneficial to the face if you have dry skin and are acne-free.

Furthermore, if you are not sensitive to cocoa butter, you can apply it to your skin. Most cocoa butter moisturisers have a thick viscosity, which can increase oil production on oily skin. However, cocoa butter is a wonderful moisturiser for dry skin.

Since it has firmly attached molecules, cocoa butter can be comedogenic to the skin. As a result, this could clog your pores and exacerbate your acne. Cocoa butter should only be used on the body and not on the face.

Can I use cocoa butter on my skin?

Cocoa butter is a remarkable moisturiser that is suitable for all skin types. It is primarily designed for dry skin. Cocoa butter nourishes and hydrates your skin for up to 48 hours. Cocoa butter can be used to treat skin disorders such as eczema caused by dry skin. Palmers’ cocoa butter formula, for example, is a wonderful solution for dry skin under a range of conditions.

Palmer’s cocoa butter mixture contains vitamin E and pure cocoa butter, which nourish and treat ashy, dry skin while softening and smoothing rough edges such as the elbows, feet, and knees.

You can also use cocoa butter if you have lighter skin. You may be wondering if cocoa butter would darken your fair complexion; rest assured, cocoa butter will not darken your skin.

It contains an emollient that helps your skin glow naturally over time.

If you’re still hesitant to use the same product on dark and light skin, Palmer’s cocoa butter formula is a great option for all skin types.

Benefits Of Cocoa Butter on the skin

Cocoa butter is an exceptional skin saviour with unlimited benefits. Here are a few: 

Moisturization

Cocoa butter is a wonderful moisturiser for all skin types. The presence of fatty acids contributes to the formation of a barrier that prevents moisture from leaving the skin, hydrating and moisturising it.

Cocoa butter will save your skin if it is extremely dry.

UV Rays Protection

UV radiation can affect the texture of the skin, cause damage to the skin’s cells, and possibly increase the risk of getting skin cancer. Cocoa butter contains phytochemicals that may protect the skin from the damaging effects of UV radiation and lessen the chance of skin disease development.

A Source of Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that has several skin beneficial properties and is found in adequate amounts in cocoa butter. Furthermore, Vitamin E is required for good vision, reproduction, and the health of your skin, blood, and brain.

Controlling Cholesterol Levels

High cholesterol levels are linked to a higher risk of developing ailments such as heart disease. Cocoa butter can help control this health risk and decrease the likelihood of a heart attack.

Stearic acid, present in cocoa butter, is metabolized by your liver into oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat. Oleic acid raises levels of healthy (HDL) cholesterol while decreasing levels of debilitating (LDL) cholesterol.

Strengthening of the Bones

Cocoa butter contains a trace amount of vitamin K. Vitamin K can help you strengthen and help safeguard your bones.

Reduced Signs and Symptoms of Liver Disease

A deficiency of choline can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including liver disease. Although cocoa butter is high in choline, eating it regularly can either reduce the risk of developing liver disease or assist alleviate its symptoms.

Side Effects of Cocoa Butter

We’re all aware of cocoa butter and the benefits it has for our overall health and skin. In contrast, it has some minor adverse effects when consumed in excess or applied to the skin. There is limited scientific data to determine why this occurs in some people, although the most obvious cause is acne breakouts.

Because cocoa butter is comedogenic, it is likely to cause negative effects such as acne if you have oily skin and apply it to your face. As a result, it’s advisable to avoid using it on oily skin.

Second, excessive consumption of cocoa butter may result in severe migraine headaches. So combine it with other foods in proportion.

What are the remedies for oily skin?

There are many ways to keep your oily skin in check to prevent acne or breakouts. The best techniques are discussed below.

Wash your face

Although acne is not caused by dirt, it is critical to wash your face regularly to prevent bacteria from entering your pores. You should wash your face twice a day, regardless of your skin type. Use a gentler soap or shower gel that will not irritate your skin.

Avoid using abrasive soaps or detergents.

Blotting papers

Blotting papers are thin little papers that won’t stop your sebaceous glands from working overtime, but they will allow you to blot excess oil from your face. This will help to reduce glossy, greasy skin. Blotting papers are affordable and widely accessible. Throughout the day, use it as needed.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal soothes irritated skin and absorbs excess oil. It also aids in the exfoliation of dead skin. When oatmeal is used in facial masks, it is usually pulverised. It goes well with yoghurt, honey, or mashed fruit like bananas, apples, or papaya. To use oatmeal on your face:

  1. Combine 1/2 cup ground oats with hot water to form a paste.
  2. Stir in 1 tablespoon of honey.
  3. Massage the oatmeal mixture into your face for about three minutes; rinse with warm water and pat dry.
  4. Alternatively, apply the oatmeal mixture to your face and leave it on for 10–15 minutes; rinse with warm water and pat dry.

Almonds

Ground almonds exfoliate your skin while also absorbing extra oils and pollutants. To use an almond face scrub:

  1. Finely grind raw almonds to make 3 teaspoons.
  2. Add 2 tablespoons of raw honey.
  3. Apply to your face gently in circular motions.
  4. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.

You may also prepare an almond face mask by crushing the almonds before adding the honey. Apply the mask for 10-15 minutes. Pat dry after rinsing with warm water. If you are allergic to nuts, do not use them. 

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a skin treatment that is used to treat burns and other skin diseases. There is excellent scientific evidence that it helps treat flaky skin caused by greasy spots, according to the Mayo Clinic. Aloe vera is commonly used to treat greasy skin.

Apply a little layer to your face before going to bed and leave it on till the next morning. Aloe vera has been linked to allergic reactions in those with sensitive skin. Test a tiny bit on your forearm if you’ve never used aloe vera before. It should be safe to use if no reaction occurs within 24 to 48 hours.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain salicylic acid, which is a popular acne home treatment. Tomato acids may aid in the absorption of excess skin oils and the clearing of pores. To make an exfoliating tomato mask:

  1. Combine 1 teaspoon of sugar with the pulp of 1 tomato.
  2. Apply to the skin in a circular motion.
  3. Leave the mask on for 5 minutes.
  4. Rinse thoroughly with warm water, and pat dry.

You can also apply just tomato pulp or tomato slices to your skin.

Jojoba oil 

Although adding oil to oily skin appears to be counterproductive, jojoba oil is a popular treatment for oily skin, acne, and other skin disorders.

Jojoba is supposed to “fool” sebaceous glands into producing less sebum, thereby keeping oil levels balanced. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this notion.

In addition, a 2012 study discovered that using a therapeutic clay and jojoba oil mask two to three times per week helped treat skin lesions and mild acne.

A little jojoba oil goes a long way. Using too much may worsen oily skin. Try massaging a few drops into clean skin a few times a week to see how you react. If you like the results, apply daily.

What causes oily skin?

The truth is that everyone has oil on their skin. Each of your pores contains a sebaceous gland, which generates natural oils known as sebum. This assists in keeping your skin hydrated and healthy.

However, in certain people, the sebaceous glands produce excessive amounts of oil. This results in greasy skin.

If your skin is continually glossy and you go through multiple blotting sheets every day, you have oily skin. Oily skin can feel greasy even after just a few hours of cleaning.

Breakouts are also more likely as sebum combines with dead skin cells and becomes trapped in your pores.

Genetic, environmental, and behavioural factors all contribute to oily skin. While you can’t eliminate oily skin, you can take action to make it less greasy. The trick is to pinpoint one or more of these five root reasons.

Genetics

Oily skin often runs in families. You are more likely to have overactive sebaceous glands if one of your parents has oily skin.

Age

Although you may not grow out of oily skin, your skin will produce less sebum as you age. The skin loses proteins like collagen as it ages, and the sebaceous glands slow down.

As a result, many people with ageing skin also have dry skin. Because of the lack of collagen and sebum, fine lines and wrinkles are more visible at this time.

One advantage of having oily skin is that you may not exhibit signs of ageing as rapidly as those with dry skin.

As you age, you should examine your skin. Even individuals in their 30s may not have the same skin composition as they did when they were in their teens and twenties.

Every few years, an aesthetician can help you review your skin type to see if you need to make any adjustments to your skincare routine.

Location

Although genetics and age are important factors in the underlying reasons for oily skin, where you live and the time of year can also play a role.

People in hot, humid climates have oilier skin. In addition, you’re more likely to have oil on your skin in the summer than in the fall or winter.

While you may not be able to pick up and move away due to your oily skin, you can change your everyday routine on hot and humid days.

Throughout the day, keep blotting papers available to remove excess oil. A matte moisturiser or foundation can also aid in the absorption of excess oil.

Enlarged pores

Because of age, weight fluctuations, and previous breakouts, your pores might sometimes extend out. Larger pores create more oil as well.

You can’t decrease your pores, but you can take extra precautions to blot the larger pores on your face during the day.

Using the wrong skin care products

Oily skin can also be triggered by using inappropriate skin care products for your skin type. Some people confuse mixed skin with oily skin, and they may overuse heavy lotions, for example.

If you have drier skin in the winter, you may need to switch to lightweight moisturisers and gel-based cleansers in the spring and summer.

Using the proper skin care products can make a significant difference in the amount of oil left on your face.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is cocoa butter good for oily, acne-prone skin?

Cocoa butter is a thick butter that is best for dry skin. People with oily skin should avoid products that contain a lot of cocoa butter because it can clog pores and cause breakouts. As a result, people with acne-prone skin should avoid using cocoa butter.

Which butter is good for oily skin?

Shea butter is excellent for oily skin. The truth is that some oils are good for oily skin. People with oily skin often have stale oil deep within the pores of their skin. Oils like shea butter can dissolve this stale oil, thereby removing it.

Does cocoa butter oil cause acne?

Cocoa butter is considered mild to moderately comedogenic. This means it can clog your pores. So, if you’re diligently rubbing cocoa butter onto your face every day, you may be doing more harm than good. If cocoa butter clogs your pores, it’s contributing to breakouts.

Is cocoa butter good for your face?

Using cocoa butter might improve the overall health and appearance of the skin on your face. Moisture, elasticity, and sun protection are all desirable attributes for keeping skin looking healthy. Since pure cocoa butter becomes oily when melted, it would be good to try it as a natural makeup remover.

Now it’s your turn.

Cocoa butter is an excellent moisturiser, no doubt. It has essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that help to keep your skin moist, healthy, and young. 

While it is recommended for all skin types, it is not advisable to use it on oily skin, especially on the face. This is because too much oil on your face, in addition to cocoa butter, which is comedogenic, may cause your pores to clog, leading to acne breakouts, dark spots, and discolouration.

It is best, however, to use cocoa butter on other areas of your skin other than your face.

Photo of author
AUTHOR
From chocolate craving to winter hot cocoa drinks indulgence - I've being through it all. In as much as I'm always learning about the awesomeness of cacao/cocoa beans, there's one thing I know for sure. Quality cocoa product always comes tops. The devil is in the details. That's why you should listen to me. I've done the research. I've made all the mistakes in the books. Yes, I'm just like you but I know a thing or two that can help you make a better choice.