Exploring Plant Oils: Their Components and Common Uses
Understanding the Contex
When I began crafting soap and other products for my family, I wanted to deepen my understanding of the oils I was using. Beyond fatty acid profiles—which influence a soap’s cleansing ability, conditioning feel, and lather—I became curious about the other components naturally present in plant oils.
These include vitamins, minerals, phytosterols, squalene, phenolic compounds, and more. My goal was to better understand what these constituents are, what roles they play, and how they’re commonly utilized in a wide range of products beyond soap.
A Journey of Research and Understanding
Over the course of many months—spanning even years—I researched plant oils extensively to create formulations for gifts I made for my family and close friends. This process involved compiling information about oils’ constituents and their traditional or commonly referenced uses. Since this information was initially gathered for personal reference, it’s presented here for educational purposes only, with the understanding that there is always more to learn.
This list is intended for educational purposes and reflects my ongoing research. Due to the complexity of plant oils and the challenges in finding complete, accurate information, I cannot guarantee its full accuracy or comprehensiveness. I’ve reviewed numerous sources to build my understanding, and while I’ve gathered significant insights, I recognize that there’s still much more to learn.
The Nature of Soap vs. Leave-On Products
It’s important to note that soap is a rinse-off product, and as such, it does not deliver the same potential effects as leave-on products like lotions, facial oils, serums, or balms. During saponification—the chemical process used to make soap—oils are transformed into soap and glycerin, meaning their original properties are altered.
While well-made soap can be a gentle and effective cleanser, it simply isn’t on the skin long enough for oil constituents to function in the same way they might in a leave-on formulation.
The following list highlights plant oils I’ve researched, along with their commonly discussed constituents and typical applications in topical formulations. This information is provided for educational purposes only, with the intent of encouraging curiosity and further exploration of these versatile ingredients.
Here is my list of plant oils, which doesn’t encompass all the oils I have used at one time or another in my concoctions:
Almond Oil (Sweet)
- Components: Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, D, & E
- Commonly Used For: Commonly used in DIY formulations like lotions or balms for moisturizing dry or sensitive skin.
- Comedogenic Scale: 2 (Low risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: Low risk of clogging pores. These oils are lightweight and generally safe for most skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin, though they may still cause issues for extremely sensitive individuals.
Apricot Oil
- Components: Vitamins A, B, B17, C, D, E, K, & Potassium
- Commonly Used For: Commonly used in DIY formulations like lotions or balms for moisturizing dry or sensitive skin.
- Comedogenic Scale: 2 (Low risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: Low risk of clogging pores. These oils are lightweight and generally safe for most skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin, though they may still cause issues for extremely sensitive individuals.
Argan Oil
- Components: Vitamin E, Carotenes, Phenols, & Squalene
- Commonly Used For: Often used in DIY formulations for softening skin and hair, providing a lightweight, non-greasy feel in hair oils or facial moisturizers.
- Comedogenic Scale: 0 (No risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: No risk of clogging pores. These oils are ideal for acne-prone or sensitive skin.
Avocado Oil
- Components: Vitamins A, B1, B2, D, & E, Lecithin
- Commonly Used For: Commonly used in DIY balms and body butters for deep hydration.
- Comedogenic Scale: 3 (Moderate risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: Moderate risk of clogging pores. These oils are heavier and may cause some breakouts, particularly in individuals with sensitive or oily skin.
Canola Oil (High Oleic)
- Components: Amino Acids, Vitamins A, E, & K
- Commonly Used For: Often used in DIY projects for lightweight skin conditioning and in hair oils.
- Comedogenic Scale: 2 (Low risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: Low risk of clogging pores. These oils are lightweight and generally safe for most skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Castor Oil
- Components: Vitamins B6, B7, C, & 90% Ricinoleic Acid
- Commonly Used For: Used in DIY soap making to enhance lather and create creamy textures in balms.
- Comedogenic Scale: 1 (Very low risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: Very low risk of clogging pores. Ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Coconut Oil
- Components: Vitamins A, B, E, & K, a small amount of polyphenolic compounds like ferulic acid
- Commonly Used For: Commonly used in DIY soap making for cleansing and creating a rich lather.
- Comedogenic Scale: 4 (High risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: High risk of clogging pores. These oils are thicker and more likely to cause breakouts, especially for those with acne-prone or oily skin. Use sparingly.
Grapeseed Oil
- Components: Beta Carotene, Vitamins C & E, polyphenols, including proanthocyanidins
- Commonly Used For: Often used in DIY projects for lightweight hydration in massage oils and skin care formulations.
- Comedogenic Scale: 1 (Very low risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: Very low risk of clogging pores. Ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Hazelnut Oil
- Components: Vitamins B6 & E, Minerals, phytosterol & Proteins
- Commonly Used For: Commonly used in DIY facial and body oils for non-greasy hydration.
- Comedogenic Scale: 2 (Low risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: Low risk of clogging pores. These oils are lightweight and generally safe for most skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Hemp Seed Oil
- Components: Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, C, D & E
- Commonly Used For: Used in DIY leave-on products like lotions and balms for boosting moisture retention.
- Comedogenic Scale: 0 (No risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: No risk of clogging pores. These oils are ideal for acne-prone or sensitive skin.
Jojoba Oil
- Components: Vitamins B & E, Sterols, & Zinc
- Commonly Used For: Commonly used in DIY formulations to balance sebum production and condition both skin and hair.
- Comedogenic Scale: 2 (Low risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: Low risk of clogging pores. These oils are lightweight and generally safe for most skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Olive Oil
- Components: Vitamins E & K, polyphenolic compounds, Proteins, & Minerals
- Commonly Used For: Traditional soap making and gentle cleansing in DIY formulations.
- Comedogenic Scale: 2 (Low risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: Low risk of clogging pores. These oils are lightweight and generally safe for most skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Palm Oil
- Components: Vitamins A & E, Tocopherols, Tocotrienols
- Commonly Used For:
- DIY Projects: Palm Oil is commonly used in DIY projects like soap making due to its ability to create a hard bar and contribute to lather. It is also included in some candle-making recipes.
- Culinary Uses: Palm Oil is often used in food products such as cooking oils and margarine.
- Comedogenic Scale: 4 (High risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: High risk of clogging pores. These oils are thicker and more likely to cause breakouts, especially for those with acne-prone or oily skin. Use sparingly.
Palm Kernel Oil
- Components: Vitamins A & E
- Commonly Used For:
- DIY Projects: Palm Kernel Oil is often used in soap making, as it can help harden soap bars and contribute to lathering properties. It is also a component in some candle-making projects.
- Culinary Uses: Palm Kernel Oil is used in food products such as snacks and baked goods, often for frying and as a shortening alternative.
- Comedogenic Scale: 4 (High risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: High risk of clogging pores. These oils are thicker and more likely to cause breakouts, especially for those with acne-prone or oily skin. Use sparingly.
Pumpkin Seed Oil
- Components: Vitamins A, C, E, & Niacin (B3)
- Commonly Used For: Commonly used in DIY creams and balms for its emollient properties.
- Comedogenic Scale: 2 (Low risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: Low risk of clogging pores. These oils are lightweight and generally safe for most skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Rice Bran Oil
- Components: Vitamins B & E, Squalane, Beta-carotene, CoQ10, Ferulic Acid (a polyphenolic compound)
- Commonly Used For: Often used in DIY lotions and serums to help smooth and moisturize the skin.
- Comedogenic Scale: 1 (Very low risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: Very low risk of clogging pores. Ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Safflower Oil (High Linoleic)
- Components: Vitamins E & K, Antioxidants
- Commonly Used For: Used in DIY body oils and creams for locking in moisture.
- Comedogenic Scale: 0 (No risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: No risk of clogging pores. These oils are ideal for acne-prone or sensitive skin.
Wheat Germ Oil
- Components: Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, D & E, Squalene, & Proteins
- Commonly Used For: Often used in DIY anti-aging products and hair conditioners for adding richness.
- Comedogenic Scale: 5 (Very high risk of clogging pores)
Explanation: Very high risk of clogging pores. These oils are very heavy and should be avoided by individuals with acne-prone or oily skin, as they are highly likely to cause blackheads and breakouts.
A Note About Accuracy
The information presented here reflects what I’ve gathered through years of research and learning. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and clarity, this content is intended as an overview—not a definitive or exhaustive source.
I encourage readers to continue their own exploration and consult reliable, authoritative resources for a deeper and more comprehensive understanding.
These sources should offer reliable and scientific insights into the components and constituents of plant oils. Simply search for the specific oil you are interested in and explore the detailed information available.
Here are some reliable sources where you can find information on the constituents and components of plant oils:
PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
PubMed contains a wealth of scientific research articles that detail the chemical compositions of plant oils. Searching for specific oils (e.g., “olive oil composition” or “argan oil components”) will lead you to studies and reviews on the constituents. Website: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.govScienceDirect
This site offers access to a broad range of academic journals covering topics like the chemical analysis of plant oils, including the components such as fatty acids, antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds. Website: https://www.sciencedirect.comFAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations)
The FAO provides reports and articles on various oils, focusing on their chemical properties, uses, and nutritional value. They often discuss the constituents found in oils. Website: http://www.fao.orgNational Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
NCBI hosts many detailed publications about plant oil components, including both primary and secondary metabolites. It’s an excellent resource for understanding the full chemical makeup of plant oils. Website: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.govThe Olive Oil Times
If you’re looking for information on olive oil specifically, this website provides detailed content on its composition, including fatty acids, polyphenols, and antioxidants. Website: https://www.oliveoiltimes.comThe American Oil Chemists’ Society (AOCS)
The AOCS publishes scientific information related to the chemical properties of oils, including fatty acid profiles, saponification values, and other important components. They offer detailed resources on oil analysis. Website: https://www.aocs.orgResearchGate
This platform offers access to peer-reviewed papers and articles published by researchers on the chemical constituents of various plant oils. Searching for oils by name will lead you to specific studies. Website: https://www.researchgate.netLinus Pauling Institute – Micronutrient Information Center
This site offers detailed information about various oils, including their constituent fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. Website: https://lpi.oregonstate.eduWebMD
WebMD provides general information on the nutritional components of common oils, including their fatty acid profiles and essential nutrients. Website: https://www.webmd.comThe Essential Oil Resource
While this site focuses primarily on essential oils, it also provides information about carrier oils, their constituents, and how they can be used in various DIY projects. Website: https://www.essentialoils.co.za
Below I have included some that I found in my research
PubMed / National Library of Medicine:
Avocado Oil: Characteristics, Properties, and Applications
PubMed / National Library of Medicine: (Constituents such as fatty acids & other components are found throughout the whole article)
Effect of Dietary Intake of Avocado Oil and Olive Oil on Biochemical Markers of Liver Function in Sucrose-Fed Rats
PubMed / National Library of Medicine: (Mentions constituents in hazelnut oil as including “vitamin E, phytosterol, vitamin B6, etc.”)
Dietary Supplementation with hazelnut Oil Reduces Serum Hyperlipidemia and Ameliorates the Progression of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Hamsters fed a High-Cholesterol Diet
PubMed / National Library of Medicine: (Mentions constituents in Hemp Seeds: Vitamins E, D, & A)
Hemp Seeds (Cannabis sativa L.) as a Valuable Source of Natural Ingredients for Functional Foods—A Review
PubMed / National Library of Medicine: (Mentions constituents in Hemp Seeds: and includes Squalene)
An Insight into Wheat Germ Oil Nutrition, Identification of Its Constituents and Computer-Aided Multidimensional Data Analysis of Its Potential Anti-Inflammatory Effects via Molecular Connections
Educational & Informational Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only. It is intended to share general knowledge about traditional soapmaking, ingredient behavior, historical context, and manufacturing processes.
Nothing on this site is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. The products offered are classified as soap under FDA guidelines and are not intended to affect the structure or function of the skin or body. Individual experiences and preferences may vary.
Information presented here should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical condition, skin concern, or sensitivity, please consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any product.
This website may reference or link to third-party scientific, technical, or educational resources for general learning purposes. These references are provided to support transparency and encourage independent research, not as endorsements or medical guidance.
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