What Is Mineral Oil?
Mineral oil is a clear, colorless, transparent, and odorless liquid derived from refined and purified petroleum. Mineral oils (including lubricant base oils) are used in construction, mining, and manufacturing industries. The mineral oils used in cosmetic and skin care products are highly refined. They are also used in medicines (liquid paraffin) and drugs. Some of the common names to identify the presence of mineral oils in the products are:
Liquid paraffin or paraffin Liquid petrolatum or petrolatum Paraffin oil Paraffinum liquidum Petrolatum liquid Petroleum oil White mineral oil or white oil
They have been used for decades in skin care and cosmetic products due to their excellent skin tolerance levels, protective and cleansing properties, and viscosity. Here are some of the advantages of using mineral oils for your skin.
Benefits Of Mineral Oil For The Skin
Water Retention Properties: Mineral oils may reduce water loss in the skin (1). They act as occlusive agents, trapping water in the skin to keep it hydrated and healthy. The occlusive properties also prevent the entry of foreign particles. Emollient Qualities: Mineral oils can keep the skin soft and moisturized by improving its barrier function. That is why they are often recommended to manage dry skin conditions. Is Non-Allergenic: Mineral oils do not penetrate the skin and are non-allergenic (2). They are highly stable and do not turn rancid. May Help Manage Skin Conditions: Mineral oils can trap moisture and may help soothe diaper rash, rough and mildly irritated skin, and dry skin conditions like xerosis (3). They are often used to heal skin burns from radiation therapy and cracked heels. They may also be effective in soothing atopic dermatitis due to their skin-protecting properties (4).
A skincare enthusiast and blogger excitedly reports after experimenting with mineral oil, stating, “The next day, after my morning bath, I saw that the cluster of SFs [sebaceous filaments] are now barely noticeable. My pores also looked tighter, which is a welcome surprise. I re-examined my routine from the previous night and because I did not change any part of my routine, I came to the conclusion that it was the mineral oil (or rather baby oil, also mineral oil but fragranced) which helped clean that annoying area (i).” Mineral oils may have numerous benefits, but they also have side effects. Here is what you should know about the adverse effects of mineral oil.
Side Effects Of Mineral Oil
While it is generally considered safe for the skin, there may be some cases where mineral oil may cause:
Mild erythema (dryness) Increased sensitivity to UV rays. Acne breakouts, as it is mildly comedogenic (1).
Donna Kay Parrish , a licensed esthetician, says, “Mineral oil has been used in cosmetics and skin care products since almost the beginning of time. Many products carry mineral oil. Oily skin sometimes has a problem with mineral oil because it may cause breakouts but, it usually does not create any harm to the skin and the benefits outweigh the risks, and plays well with the skin.” If you are lactating, consult your doctor before using mineral oil for sore and cracked nipples. When used in moderation, mineral oil products may benefit your skin. Here is how you can use mineral oil for the skin.
How To Use Mineral Oil
To use mineral oil, apply it to your damp skin after showering. If you are using it with other products, apply mineral oil as the last step. Here are a few precautions to follow:
Use mineral oil products as per the instructions. Do a patch test to avoid allergic reactions. If you have skin issues like eczema, psoriasis, and acne, please consult a dermatologist before using mineral oil. If you notice mild irritation or redness, avoid using mineral oil products and consult a dermatologist. Avoid applying it on sensitive areas, such as your eyes and the groin area. Do not ingest mineral oil. Do not apply mineral oil on broken and bruised skin.
Is it always safe to use mineral oil? Here’s when you should be staying away from this petroleum-derived ingredient.
When To Avoid Using Mineral Oil
If you have acne-prone or oily skin, it is best to avoid using mineral oil. It is mildly comedogenic and occlusive and may worsen the existing lesions or cause new breakouts (1). Avoid using mineral oil-based products if you are allergic to it as it may cause:
Redness Dryness Irritation
If mineral oil products suit your skin, you can continue using them. What is the ideal frequency of application? Find out in the next section.
How Often Can You Use It?
Use mineral oil-based products once or twice a day. If you have skin issues like erythema, eczema, psoriasis, or rashes, check with a dermatologist to determine the frequency. Knowing about various mineral oils for hair, their benefits and how to use them can help you get soft, frizz-free locks.
Wondering whether mineral oil is the right choice for your skin? The following video explains the benefits and possible side effects of using mineral oil. Watch it out to learn more! Which is better for the skin: mineral oil or coconut oil? Mineral oil and coconut oil are both equally efficient skin moisturizers with no adverse effects. Is Vaseline a mineral oil? Vaseline is formulated with a combination of mineral oils and waxes. Is mineral oil cancerous? Highly refined mineral oils are not cancerous. However, unrefined or partially refined mineral oils may contain PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), which are carcinogenic in nature and may increase the risk of developing cancer. Is mineral oil and olive oil the same thing? No, mineral oil is derived by refining petroleum products, whereas olive oil is plant-based and derived from olives. However, olive oil can be used as a mineral oil alternative for relieving constipation and hydrating the skin and hair. Is mineral oil an effective makeup remover? Yes, mineral oil can be an effective makeup remover as it is lightweight and non-comedogenic oil, which means it moisturizes the skin without does not clog the pores. Mineral oil readily dissolves oil-based makeup such as waterproof mascara and lipstick, making it an effective solution for stubborn makeup. You can pour a small amount of mineral oil onto a cotton pad or ball and gently wipe the areas with makeup. Once you are done removing the makeup, wash your face properly with a gentle cleanser. Pat it dry and apply a good moisturizer to keep your skin smooth and healthy.
