EmollientUnderstated
Linoleic Acid
Also known as: Omega-6, Safflower oil linoleic
Medically reviewed by ChokChok · Updated April 15, 2026
The missing fatty acid in most acne-prone skin — studies show sebum of acneic patients is deficient in linoleic acid.
What It Does
Barrier repairAnti-inflammatoryHelps acne-prone skin
Deep Dive
Published research (Downing et al., 1986 onward) demonstrated that sebum of acne-prone skin is depleted in linoleic acid relative to oleic acid. Topical linoleic-rich oils (safflower, grapeseed, rosehip, hemp) can partially correct this imbalance and improve follicular keratinization. Result: fewer comedones over weeks of use. Not a cure, but a meaningful adjunct.
Best For
Acne-ProneCombinationSensitive
Pairs Well With
Effective Concentration
Most plant oils rich in linoleic (safflower, grapeseed, rosehip, hemp) deliver it.