Does Rosehip Oil Clog Pores? Benefits for Sensitive & Acne-Prone Skin

Rosehip oil has gained popularity over recent years, and I am stoked, because like many others, does Rosehip Oil Clog Pores? Rosehip oil is an exciting, highly active ingredient that can make a real difference to the health of your skin—and even your hair. It’s suitable for all skin types, including hypersensitive skin like mine, and those prone to irritation from eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, or acne. Rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and skin-loving vitamins and minerals, Rosehip oil is a powerhouse. These components help soothe, repair, and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, making it a valuable addition to any skincare routine. Discover more. If you’ve read my recipes before, you’ll know Rosehip oil pops up again and again—it’s probably my all-time favourite carrier. If I were packing a desert island list, it would be on it without hesitation.

Should I Limit How Much Rosehip Oil I Use?

Should I Limit How Much Rosehip Oil I Use?

How Much Rosehip Oil Should You Use?

Rosehip oil is a rich and powerful carrier, which is why it’s best used in moderation. For most skin care formulations, a 10% dilution is ideal. You might wonder—why limit such a beneficial oil? Is it because of its comedogenic rating? Actually, no—Rosehip oil is widely regarded as a non-comedogenic, safe oil. But like any natural product, it can occasionally cause sensitivity or reactions in some people.

Possible Reactions to Rosehip Oil

While uncommon, here are a few things to be aware of:

    • Minor allergic skin reactions – severe cases are rare

    • Temporary irritation, redness, or swelling (not always allergic)

    • Increased sun sensitivity – due to its natural retinoid content; always pair with sunscreen

    • Breakouts – usually from overuse; start with small amounts and build up gradually

These effects are rare and vary widely between individuals. That’s why we always recommend doing a 24–48 hour patch test before introducing Rosehip oil into a formulation.

💡 Patch Test Tip:
Dilute to 10% before testing:
1ml Rosehip oil + 9ml of a base oil (like Sweet Almond, Jojoba, or Sunflower) gives you a safe, effective test blend. 

When people talk about the “disadvantages” of Rosehip oil, they’re usually cases of using too much or too often. In the right dilution and applied thoughtfully, Rosehip can be your skin’s greatest ally. It certainly is mine—and I wouldn’t be without it.

Does Rosehip Oil Clog Pores? – Common Questions

One of the most frequent questions I’m asked is whether carrier oils and cosmetic butters clog pores. The answer? It depends entirely on the oil or butter in question. When it comes to Rosehip oil, here are some of the most popular queries:

    • Does Rosehip oil clog pores on the face?

    • How fast does Rosehip oil clog pores?

    • Does Rosehip oil help with acne?

    • Does Rosehip oil cause acne?

    • Is it pore-clogging or acne-fighting? 

These are all great questions—and you’re not alone in wondering. Let’s explore the answers together.

First Stop: The Comedogenic Scale

The best place to start is with the comedogenic rating of Rosehip oil. You can view the full chart in our Complete Comedogenic Scale for Carrier Oils & Beauty Butters, but here’s a quick refresher:

Comedogenic Scale (0–5):

    • 0 – Will not clog pores

    • 1 – Highly unlikely

    • 2 – Moderately unlikely

    • 3 – Moderate likelihood

    • 4 – Fairly likely

    • 5 – Highly likely

So, Where Does Rosehip Oil Sit?

Rosehip oil typically scores 1–2 on the comedogenic scale, depending on the source and individual skin response. This means it's generally considered safe for most skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.

To help you visualise how it compares, we’ve included a full breakdown in our guide, with examples at every level. I’ve even highlighted Rosehip oil in green so you can spot it easily.

Carrier Oil Comedogenic Rating Skin Type & Use
Argan Oil
(Argania Spinosa)
0 Will not clog pores Suitable for all skin types. A rich, powerhouse oil for skin and hair.
Avocado Oil
(Persea gratissima)
3 Moderate likelihood of clogging pores Dry, combination & acne-prone skin types. Great for irritated skin. Restrict to 40% of the overall formula for face products.
Coconut Oil
(Cocos nucifera)
4 Fairly likely to clog pores Best for body care, recommended only for very limited and targeted use on the face.
Jojoba Oil
(Simmondsia chinensis)
2 Moderately unlikely Most skin types, especially dry and acne-prone skin. Regulates and balances sebum production.
Rosehip Oil
(Rosa Canina)
1 Highly unlikely to clog pores Dry, combination & acne-prone skin types, scarred skin. Protective powerhouse. Restrict to 10% of the overall formulation for face products.
Wheatgerm Oil
(Triticum vulgare)
5 Highly likely to clog pores Dehydrated skin and damaged skin. Recommended only for limited and targeted use on the face. Great for adding skin resistance to massage blends, restrict to 10% of the overall formulation for face and body products.


Finding The Answers To Does Rosehip Oil Clog Pores

Finding The Answers To Does Rosehip Oil Clog Pores

Does Rosehip Oil Clog Pores or Cause Acne?

Let’s revisit those common questions now that we’ve explored Rosehip oil’s comedogenic rating.

Does Rosehip Oil Clog Pores on the Face?

With a comedogenic rating of just 1, Rosehip oil is classed as non-comedogenic, meaning it’s highly unlikely to clog your pores when used appropriately. That means:

    • In dilutions under 10%

    • Blended with other non-comedogenic ingredients

    • Formulated to suit your skin type

There’s little benefit in pairing Rosehip oil with something like Coconut oil (comedogenic rating: 4), which is far more likely to block pores, especially on your face.

How Fast Does Rosehip Oil Clog Pores?

It shouldn’t clog them at all. But if you overapply it or use it in too high a concentration, it could overwhelm the skin, especially if your pores are already struggling. Stick with that <10% dilution and build up slowly.

Does Rosehip Oil Help with Acne?

Yes. Rosehip oil is rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds—all supportive for acne-prone skin. Its antimicrobial qualities make it a strong ally when tackling breakouts gently.

Want to go deeper? Don’t miss my article on Essential Oils for Clearer Skin, and keep an eye out for my upcoming Rosehip-for-acne feature. Sign up to the newsletter to be the first to hear.

Does Rosehip Oil Cause Acne?

No, Rosehip oil won’t cause acne. Acne is a complex skin condition, and Rosehip oil has many properties that actually help manage it. But—used excessively or in the wrong context—it might irritate existing breakouts. That’s why I recommend using it in moderation and always diluted.

Will It Clog Acne Spots Themselves?

Not if you’re formulating wisely. Rosehip oil, used in a balanced recipe with other non-comedogenic ingredients, can support healing and reduce inflammation without suffocating acne lesions.

Does Rosehip Oil Clog Pores or Cause Acne?

No. Rosehip oil won’t clog your pores and won’t cause acne, as long as you’re mindful of how you use it.

Think of it this way: Rosehip oil is not an essential oil, but it’s powerful enough to treat like one. That’s why I always dilute it—and why I suggest you do too. When used well, it’s a brilliant asset to your skin toolkit.

Curious about what else Rosehip oil can do? Check out Rosehip Oil for Hair: A Garden-to-Bottle Guide to explore its full potential.

Is Rosehip Oil Good For My Skin?

Is Rosehip Oil Good For My Skin?

Naturally, once you’ve asked “Does Rosehip oil clog pores?” the next question becomes, “But is it good for my skin?” Yes—absolutely. It’s one of the most impressive oils you can add to your skincare routine, and it’s my personal favourite. If you haven’t explored its many benefits yet, now is the perfect time. I’ve written an entire guide packed with science-backed information and skin-loving recipes to get you started:

Rosehip Oil Benefits: Sublime Serum, Cream Mask & Moisturiser Recipes

Why Use Rosehip Oil for Skin?

Rosehip oil is bursting with active compounds that can transform the health and appearance of your skin. Here’s how:

Rosehip Oil Can Improve:

    • Skin hydration – Keeps skin moisturised, helping with dryness and dehydration.

    • Barrier function – Strengthens the skin’s natural defences.

    • Elasticity & collagen production – Minimises fine lines and softens texture.

    • Antioxidant protection – Neutralises free radicals, soothes inflammation, and enhances overall skin health.

    • Acne-prone skin – Balances oil production and calms blemishes.

Rosehip Oil Can Reduce:

    • Fine lines and wrinkles – Regular use helps smooth signs of ageing.

    • Dark spots & pigmentation – Brightens dull or uneven skin tone.

    • Scarring – Soothes post-acne marks and stretch marks over time.

Rosehip Oil Can Even Out:

    • Skin tone – Especially helpful for combination and blemish-prone skin.

    • Sebum levels – Helps rebalance oily or dry patches.

    • Absorption – Carries other oils and actives deeper into the skin, boosting their efficacy.

It’s this final quality—its ability to deliver nourishment deep into the dermis—that makes Rosehip oil such a skincare powerhouse.

How Can I Use Rosehip Oil to Improve My Skin Tone and Appearance?

A great follow-up to “Does Rosehip oil clog pores?” is understanding how best to use it to support brighter, clearer, more radiant skin.

Rinse-Off Products: When Higher Comedogenic Oils Can Still Work

Because Rosehip oil is low on the comedogenic scale, it pairs best with other non-comedogenic carrier oils and butters, especially in products that stay on your face. However, there are exceptions. In rinse-off products like cleansers or face masks, you can be more flexible, even incorporating higher-rated oils in small amounts. Why? Because you're washing them off before they have the chance to settle into the skin and potentially block pores.

Let’s explore some examples:

    • Olive oil has a rating of 2, meaning it’s moderately unlikely to clog pores. It’s brilliant for cleansing because it binds to dirt and makeup, helping lift grime from the skin. As long as it’s thoroughly rinsed off, it’s safe and effective.

    • Wheatgerm oil has a high rating of 5, typically a no-go for acne-prone or sensitive skin. However, when used sparingly in massage blends or facial oils, it offers valuable grip and resistance. This tactile “drag” stimulates circulation and helps you maintain control during facial massage. Just be sure to remove it afterwards with a warm cloth or toner.

So, to answer once more: Does Rosehip oil clog pores? No. But something like Wheatgerm might—unless it’s used in the right product and removed properly.

Best Rinse-Off Products for Rosehip Oil

Try using Rosehip oil in any of the following products that are designed to be washed or wiped away:

    • Cleansers

    • Cleansing Foams

    • Micellar Waters

    • Cleansing Balms

    • Face Masks

    • Face & Lip Scrubs

    • Homemade Face Wipes

These allow you to enjoy the benefits of Rosehip oil (and even a few riskier oils) without worrying about clogged pores.

Leave On Facial Products With Rosehip Oil 

Leave On Facial Products With Rosehip Oil

Does Rosehip Oil Clog Pores in Leave-On Facial Products?

Great question—and an important one if you're formulating skincare that stays on the skin.

Keep Your Ratios Clean and Your Ingredients Balanced

When creating leave-on facial products, it’s essential to limit Rosehip oil to 10% or less in your formula. Why? Because it’s a potent, highly active oil, and a little goes a long way. Just as importantly, you’ll want to pair it with other low comedogenic ingredients, such as:

These ingredients all have low comedogenic ratings, meaning they’re unlikely to block pores when used appropriately.

Be Cautious With Heavier Oils and Butters

If you’re tempted to include oils with a rating of 2 or higher—such as Coconut or Wheatgerm—you’ll need to keep them to a minimum to avoid breakouts or congested skin, especially if you're acne-prone. To answer the common query: “Does Rosehip oil clog pores in a Wheatgerm and Coconut Butter night cream?”
The Rosehip won’t. But the other two might.
It’s all about the formulation balance.

Best Leave-On Products for Rosehip Oil

Rosehip oil is beautifully suited to a range of leave-on skincare applications, including:

    • Toners

    • Face Mists

    • Moisturisers

    • Night & Nourishing Creams

    • Serums and Face Oils

    • Eye Creams

    • Lip Creams

Used correctly, it can transform your routine, without a blocked pore in sight.

Rejuvenating Rosehip Oil Recipes

Rosehip Oil Pore Refining Cleansing Balm Recipe

Rosehip Oil Pore Refining Cleansing Balm Recipe

‘Does Rosehip Oil clog pores with this Rosehip Pore Refining Cleansing Balm? ’ Not! It's a dream for cleaning and cleansing your precious skin. 

Many of you will not be familiar with using a balm as a skin cleanser, yet this is wonderful at cleaning and cleansing the skin and refining the appearance of your pores. This is a product that you will wash off after use. The Olive oil lifts out impurities and pulls them away from your skin, Jojoba oil balances sebum production, and the Rosehip oil will add to all the amazing antioxidants that will refine the appearance of your overall complexion.  You don’t have to add the essential oils, but they bring their own active qualities to the party and can be relied upon to strengthen the overall formula for a more effective facial product. 

You Will Need:

    1. Small microwave-proof measuring jug

    2. Stainless steel spoon

    3. 100ml wide-mouth jar, lid and scoop

    4. Oil and waterproof label

Ingredients:

Optional: A preservative of your choice, follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Safety:

    • Do not use it in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy

    • Grapefruit Specific -Not suitable for use by people who have platelet disorders or are on blood-thinning medication. It is suggested you cease use of grapefruit essential oil 48 hours before any planned surgery

    • Do not use more than 10% Rosehip carrier oil of your overall volume

Method:

    1. Place the beeswax in a microwave-proof jug and heat on low in 30-second bursts until the wax is mostly molten.

    2. Then add the Kokum butter and heat in bursts again until it is all molten.

    3. Remove from the microwave and set aside to cool slightly.

    4. Measure out the carrier oils.

    5. Measure out the essential oils and dilute them in the carrier oils by mixing them thoroughly.

    6. Then pour this into the molten wax and butter and stir very quickly for a minute or so to combine thoroughly.

    7. Pour into a wide-mouth jar, cover with a soft cloth and allow to set before affixing the lid. Do not add the lid while it is still warm, as the warm moisture can encourage the formation of mould and bacteria. 

    8. Once fully cooled, add the lid and an oil and waterproof label listing all ingredients and any safety information.

    9. Note the production date on the label and an expiry date of 3-6 months. 

How To Use:

    1. Always do a 24-48 hour patch test before you first use it. 

    2. ‘Does Rosehip oil clog pores? ’ Not with this beauty! 

    3. Use a scoop to scoop some out; this stops any transfer of bacteria from your fingers. 

    4. Place it in your palm and warm it slightly. You don’t need much! 

    5. Take a cotton pad or ball and pick up some of the cleansing balm and work it into the surface of the skin in small, smooth circular motions. 

    6. Take care not to drag the skin, especially the delicate skin around the eyes. 

    7. You should notice after a few swirls that the cotton looks quite grubby, which shows this is working just as it should! 

    8. Change to a clean cotton pad to cleanse the next area of your face, neck and decolletage. 

    9. Do not use this to remove eye makeup if you have used essential oils. Take care not to get any in your eyes.

    10. Once you have cleansed your entire face, neck and decolletage, take a warm, wet cloth and just wipe it across the whole area to remove any oily residue. 

    11. There are so many wonderful reusable cotton pads and cleansing cloths on the market today, it is well worth making a small investment for you, but a big investment for the planet. I hand wash mine in homemade soap after each use and hang them to dry, ready for the next day. 

    12. You can use this product once a day. 

    13. Store your jar of balm out of direct light, preferably in a dark, cool, ambient temperature.

Rosehip Oil Skin Brightening Serum Recipe

A Skin Brightening Serum for Freckles, Dark Marks & Hyperpigmentation

I don’t mind admitting I’ve always had freckles—and honestly, they’ve never bothered me. We made peace in childhood and have stayed on good terms ever since. But I know that’s not true for everyone. If your freckles or dark marks leave you feeling less than confident, my heart goes out to you. While I can’t offer a magic wand to erase every freckle, I can share a recipe that targets sun-induced freckles, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation, especially those caused by premature skin ageing. I can feel them popping up in strong sunshine—ping! ping! ping!—so prevention is always the first step.

First Rule: Sunscreen

You don’t need me to tell you the best way to avoid dark marks is to wear a high-quality, high-factor sunscreen. Every day. Without fail.

Second Rule: Antioxidants

This serum is packed with antioxidants—powerful allies in the fight against free radical damage, which contributes to dullness, pigmentation, and ageing skin.

Citrus Oils & Brightening

A 2023 study by Yang confirmed that citrus essential oils can be effective in addressing hyperpigmentation. Yang (2023). One of my favourite options is Green Mandarin (Citrus nobilis). It’s bright, gentle, and importantly, non-phototoxic, so it’s safe to use during the day. Alternatively, you could use Mandarin Orange (Citrus reticulata) essential oil—but only in your night-time skincare, as it does carry phototoxic risk.

Will Rosehip Oil Clog Pores in This Serum?

Absolutely not. You’re safe here. With Rosehip’s low comedogenic rating and this well-balanced formula, you can feel confident applying it to your skin.

Read More About How To Deal With Hyperpigmentation:

You Will Need:

    1. Small measuring jug

    2. Bottle funnel

    3. Stainless steel spoon

    4. 50ml rubber-topped dropper bottle

    5. Oil and waterproof label

Ingredients:

Optional: A preservative of your choice, follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Safety:

    • Do not use it in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy

    • Do not use more than 10% Rosehip carrier oil of your overall volume

Method:

This is super simple, just combine all of the oils and decant into a 50ml rubber-topped dropper bottle with a bottle funnel. Keeping the bottle clean and oil-free helps your label adhere better. List all of your ingredients and any safety precautions on the label. Add a date and an expiry date of 3-6 months. 

How To Use:

    1. Always do a 24-48 hour patch test before you first use it. 

    2. Cleanse, tone and moisturise your skin and allow your moisturiser to sink in for a few minutes before applying this product.

    3. Dispense a couple of drops into the palm of your hand and warm them up a little. 

    4. Using your first two fingers, apply the oil in small upward circular motions to the face.

    5. Take care not to drag delicate skin, especially around the eye area.

    6. Apply to the neck and decolletage too. 

    7. If your skin is hungry, it may need a little more oil, but go easy; less is more here. 

    8. You can use this product once a day, preferably at night.

    9. Ask yourself, ‘Does Rosehip Oil clog pores with this little beauty? ’ Smile to yourself smugly and say ‘Nope, but dark marks don’t stand a chance!

    10. Store your bottle out of light in a dark, cool, ambient temperature. (Steamy bathrooms are not the best place to keep it). 

Rescue and Repair Rosehip Oil Serum Recipe


Emergency Rescue Serum (5ml)

This is the one you reach for when your skin’s having an absolute moment. Maybe you spent the weekend partying, forgot to take your makeup off, skipped your water, and lived on crisps and vibes. Perhaps you’ve been battered by wind and weather, or hormones have had their wicked way with you for two relentless weeks. Whatever the reason, sometimes your skin just needs serious TLC. And this little blend? She’s the deluxe solution. I’ve filled it with lush, indulgent, skin-loving ingredients—the kind that say: you matter.

Why Only 5ml?

Because this is for occasional use—when your skin’s in crisis, not for everyday. The ingredients are exquisite (read: pricey), but you only need a tiny amount to feel the full effect.

Making just 5ml means:

    • No need to faff with preservatives

    • You can splurge on high-quality ingredients without the big cost

    • It stays fresh, potent, and purposeful

And trust me… 5ml is enough. Really.

Working in Drops

When blending such small amounts, you’ll be working in drops. Here's a quick reminder: essential oils vary in viscosity, so drop size can differ. A thin oil, like Lemon, gives smaller drops than a thick oil, like Vetiver. Use the table below as a guide—it’s not an exact science, but it’s close enough for magic to happen.

How Many Drops Of Oil to Millilitres
*Approximate
Volume 5ml 2.5 ml 1ml 0.8ml 0.6ml 0.5ml 0.4ml 0.2ml 0.1ml 0.05ml
Equivalent in drops 100 drops 50 drops 20 drops 16 drops 12 drops 10 drops 8 drops 4 drops 2 drops 1 drop

TOP TIP: When making such small amounts, always put the formulation in a bottle or container of the right size. Putting it in a larger vessel leaves space with air in it that can oxidise and age your oils faster than a vessel of the right size, which excludes excess air. 

You Will Need:

    1. Small measuring cup

    2. Stainless steel spoon

    3. Bottle funnel

    4. 5ml bottle with dropper insert and lid

    5. Oil and waterproof label

Ingredients:

Optional: A preservative of your choice, follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Safety:

    • Do not use it in the first 37 weeks of pregnancy

    • Do not use more than 10% Rosehip carrier oil of your overall volume

Method:

Again, very simple to make. Combine all of the oils, mix thoroughly and decant into your bottle with a funnel. Label listing all ingredients and relevant safety precautions. Add a production and expiry date of 3-6 months. 

How To Use:

    1. Always do a 24-48 hour patch test before you first use it. 

    2. Follow the same instructions for the Skin Brightening Serum above.

    3. If your skin is particularly dehydrated and parched, it will soak this up, so use a few more drops than normal.

    4. Use this 2-3 times a week, preferably at night. It is a bit rich to use daily unless your skin is exceptionally dehydrated and damaged. If it is, use it daily for one week only and then 2-3 times a week thereafter.

    5. Store this out of direct light in a dark place at a cool, ambient temperature.

Final Thoughts: Does Rosehip Oil Clog Pores?


You asked, “Does Rosehip oil clog pores?”
The answer? Absolutely not. We’ve explored its comedogenic rating (just 1!), unpacked the 10% dilution rule, and walked through why—despite being rich and potent—Rosehip oil is an ally, not a foe, when it comes to clear skin. Why the 10% Rule Matters. Rosehip oil is deeply active and beautifully nourishing, but using too much—especially undiluted—can trigger breakouts or irritation. That’s why we stick to a 10% dilution in skincare formulations.

Let’s quickly recap why:

    • It’s powerful: Packed with retinoid-like compounds and antioxidants.

    • It can be sensitising: Especially under sun exposure (always pair with sunscreen).

    • It’s potent: Less is more. A patch test is always a smart start.

Note: You can use Rosehip oil neat on hair strands—just not on the scalp.

Clearing Up Common Questions

Throughout this article, we’ve tackled your top concerns:

    • Will Rosehip oil clog pores? → No.

    • Does it cause acne? → No.

    • Can it make acne worse if misused? → Possibly—if overused or applied undiluted.

We used the Comedogenic Ratings Table to guide these answers, and Rosehip came through with flying colours.

Rosehip Oil & Acne: More Coming Soon

I’ve got a full article on Rosehip oil and acne coming your way soon. It’ll answer questions like:

    • Can Rosehip oil help with breakouts?

    • What’s the best way to apply it for acne-prone skin?

    • Which essential oils pair beautifully with it for clearer skin?

Sign up for the Vinevida newsletter so you don’t miss it.

Ready to Try It?

If you’re curious to explore Rosehip’s benefits firsthand, try one of these rejuvenating recipes:

    • Rosehip Oil Pore Refining Cleansing Balm – gently cleans and smooths the skin.

    • Skin Brightening Serum – targets dark spots and sun-induced pigmentation.

    • Rescue & Repair Serum – for days when your skin is in meltdown mode.