Is MCT Oil Good for Dry Skin?

Ashley Reynolds is the Co Founder of EMTCBD. Working with those ready to make the transition to plan based medicine is the driver behind Ashley’s ambitions to marry education with safe consumption of cannabis. A mom, dental hygienist, wife, and Vermonter, Ashley brings a unique story sharing perspective to the everyday women just trying to be well in a life of ups and downs.


What is MCT Oil?

MCT oil is a form of oil made up of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of saturated fat that is commonly found in coconut oil. MCT molecules are known to be small, really small. When ingested, these tiny MCTs absorb quickly into the bloodstream. MCT oil is often used for products like CBD oil, which requires fast-absorbing carrier oils to be effective.

Where does MCT oil come from?

Palm kernel oil and coconut oil are two commonly used starter oils that are refined to create MCT oil. MCT oil is typically made by putting one of these MCT-containing oils through a refining process called fractionation. This process concentrates the natural MCTs and removes other compounds.  The end result is an oil that usually contains 100 percent MCTs.

New To EMT? Here is 20% Off Your First Order

**The 20% off coupon will be automatically applied to your cart at checkout.

Our Best Selling Tincture

EMT CBD is the best quality! I’ve tried lots of different brands…local, larger well-known names…and yours can’t be beat. It’s the only thing that has saved me from chronic sacral nerve issues & anxiety and depression. You totally need a bundle that’s “one of everything” from your site!” – Carla Dombrowski, Review of our 1500mg CBD Oil

Is MCT oil good for dry skin?

MCT oil can help with dry skin because it’s a fatty moisturizer that mimics the consistency of fat lipids in the skin. This is beneficial for people who suffer from severe flaking and itching on their skin’s surface. However, because MCT oil’s comedogenic qualities can contribute to clogged pores, it’s generally better known as a carrier oil for products that require ingesting (like CBD Oil).

A Look at the Comedogenic Properties of MCT Oil

MCT oil is a comedogenic oil, or more comedogenic than some other oils, which means it is not readily absorbed by the skin and may have some potential to cause clogged pores. When it comes to moisturizing your skin, it is usually best to steer clear of anything that could lead to clogged pores, because this can actually encourage breakouts to occur. If the pores can’t “breathe,” you are more likely to trap dirt and oils inside that aggravate the skin.

Better Alternatives Beyond MCT Oil for Dry Skin

Because MCT oil is more comedogenic by nature, the best skincare products with CBD are not formulated with MCT oil, but other oils that are easier broken down and absorbed. A few examples of oils that are far less comedogenic include:

  • Hemp seed oil
  • Neem oil
  • Grapeseed oil
  • Avocado oil
  • Safflower oil
  • Apricot oil

If you will notice, our skincare products at Elmore Mountain Therapeutics are not made with an MCT oil base. Instead, we opt for oils that are less likely to cause clogged pores or lead to skin irritation. For example, our CBD face serum is made with a hemp seed oil base.

Find Better Options for Skin Moisturizing with CBD Included

When you are struggling with dry skin, you definitely don’t want to use a product that could bring about other problems. So, while MCT may be good for surface-level moisturization on your skin if you have major patches of dryness, this is not the best option for general moisturization. To find good-quality skincare products that include CBD and no MCT oil, take a look at our collection.

Written by Ashley Reynolds.