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emollient

Mineral Oil

Commonly feared, low concern·Strong evidence·INCI: Paraffinum Liquidum

A highly refined, purified oil that forms a light protective layer to slow water loss from skin. Cosmetic-grade mineral oil goes through purification steps that remove the contaminants associated with crude petroleum, and CIR has found it safe as used.

The myth vs the evidence

Myth: mineral oil is "petroleum" and therefore toxic or pore-clogging. Evidence: cosmetic and pharmaceutical-grade mineral oil is highly refined and purified to remove polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, unlike crude petroleum. CIR reviewed it as safe as used, and clinical studies have not shown it to be comedogenic in typical cosmetic formulations.

Questions

Is mineral oil just petroleum that clogs pores?
Cosmetic-grade mineral oil is highly refined and purified to remove crude petroleum's contaminants. CIR found it safe as used, and clinical studies have not shown it to be comedogenic in typical cosmetic formulations.
Does mineral oil suffocate or strangle the skin?
No. Mineral oil forms a light occlusive layer that slows water loss, which is why dermatologists recommend it for dry and eczema-prone skin. It does not seal pores or prevent them from functioning normally.

Products with Mineral Oil

In our guides

References

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.