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Skincare Ingredient

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Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil

In Skincare: Is Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects

Comedogenicity (pore clogging)
1/5 — Very low risk
Safety (overall safety)
2/5 — Low risk
Irritancy (skin irritation)
1/5 — Very low risk

Safety Information

Highly refined mineral oil is generally non-comedogenic and non-irritating. According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), it is considered safe for use in cosmetics when formulated to be readily washable. Does not clog pores; remains on the skin surface and is non-comedogenic when cosmetic-grade. Very low irritation and allergy risk; suitable even for sensitive and compromised skin.

Overview

Ingredient Profile

White mineral oil (petroleum) a highly refined petroleum mineral oil consisting of a complex combination of hydrocarbons obtained from the intensive treatment of a petroleum fraction with sulfuric acid and oleum, or by hydrogenation, or by a combination of hydrogenation and acid treatment. Additional washing and treating steps may be included in the processing operation. It consists of saturated hydrocarbons having carbon numbers predominantly in the range of C15 through C50. Mineral oil (US)
Classifications
Emollient
Occlusive/Opacifying Agent

Data & Research

Scientific Facts

Mineral oil is a highly refined petroleum-derived ingredient that is chemically inert and stable, meaning it does not easily oxidize or react with the skin. In cosmetic and dermatological formulations, only pharmaceutical- or cosmetic-grade mineral oil is used, which undergoes extensive purification to remove potentially harmful impurities. It acts primarily as an occlusive agent, forming a protective barrier on the skin surface that reduces transepidermal water loss and helps maintain skin hydration. Due to its large molecular structure, mineral oil remains on the skin’s surface rather than penetrating deeply, resulting in a very low risk of irritation or allergic reactions. Regulatory bodies such as the FDA, EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel consider highly refined mineral oil safe for topical use, even on sensitive or compromised skin.

Common Uses

Formulation in Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil

Mineral oil is widely used in skincare and cosmetic products for its moisturizing, protective, and texture-enhancing properties. It is commonly found in creams, lotions, ointments, balms, and cleansing products, particularly those formulated for dry, very dry, or sensitive skin. Due to its excellent safety profile, it is frequently used in baby care products, medical-grade skincare, and barrier repair formulations. Mineral oil also plays a role in makeup products such as foundations, lipsticks, and makeup removers, where it helps dissolve pigments, improve spreadability, and prevent moisture loss. Its stability and non-reactive nature make it suitable for long-lasting formulations with minimal risk of skin irritation.

Role of Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil

Active Cosmetic Mechanisms

ANTISTATIC

Static Eliminator

Reduces static electricity and flyaway hair

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Antistatic agents neutralize electrostatic charges through cationic surfactants (quaternary ammonium compounds like behentrimonium chloride) or conductive polymers that increase surface conductivity to dissipate charge or attract moisture. The mechanism involves forming a conductive film on fiber surfaces, neutralizing charge buildup. Particularly effective on damaged hair with raised cuticles.

SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT

Skin Softener

Softens and smooths skin by filling gaps between cells

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Emollient ingredients create smooth, soft skin by filling spaces between corneocytes in stratum corneum. These include esters (isopropyl palmitate), oils (jojoba, argan), fatty alcohols, and silicones. The mechanism involves spreading on skin surface, filling microscopic irregularities, and creating lubricious film. Effects are immediate tactile improvement and visual smoothing. Emolliency measured by spreading coefficient and skin feel assessments.

SKIN PROTECTING

Defensive Shield

Shields skin from external aggressors and damage

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Skin protecting ingredients defend against environmental stressors, irritants, and damage through barrier enhancement, antioxidant activity, anti-pollution effects, or physical barriers. Include dimethicone (barrier), allantoin (soothing protectant), zinc oxide (physical protectant), and film-formers. Mechanisms vary: forming protective films, neutralizing oxidative stress, chelating pollutants, strengthening barrier function. Used in protective creams, barrier treatments, and defensive skincare against urban pollution, extreme weather.

SOLVENT

Ingredient Dissolver

Dissolves other ingredients to create uniform formulations

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Solvents dissolve, dilute, or disperse other ingredients creating homogeneous solutions. Water is universal solvent for hydrophilic ingredients. Organic solvents include ethanol (dissolves fragrances, some actives), propylene glycol, and glycerin. Selection based on polarity matching between solvent and solute. Mechanism involves disrupting intermolecular forces in solute and surrounding with solvent molecules. Critical for maintaining ingredient solubility and product stability.

Products

containing Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil

3215 formulations
Denní Krém S Amarantovým Olejem A Hedvábím
Denní Krém S Amarantovým Olejem A Hedvábím
Ryor · moisturizer
Invisible Solid Antiperspirant Deodorant - Cocoa Butter & Shea
Invisible Solid Antiperspirant Deodorant - Cocoa Butter & Shea
Suave · body-skincare
M Perfect Cover BB Cream SPF 42
M Perfect Cover BB Cream SPF 42
Missha · moisturizer
Deep Cleansing Milk
Deep Cleansing Milk
Anne French · cleanser
Výživný Krém S Přírodními Oleji
Výživný Krém S Přírodními Oleji
Ryor · moisturizer
Výživný Krém Exclusive
Výživný Krém Exclusive
Ryor · moisturizer
Cicalfate Lips Repair Balm
Cicalfate Lips Repair Balm
Eau Thermale Avène · eye-lip-care
Antiseptic Healing Cream
Antiseptic Healing Cream
Sudocrem · serums-treatment
Cocoa Butter Hand & Body Lotion
Cocoa Butter Hand & Body Lotion
Queen Helene · body-skincare
Ultra Light Face Cleansing Oil & Makeup Remover
Ultra Light Face Cleansing Oil & Makeup Remover
Neutrogena · makeup
See all products with Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil
Semantic Analysis

Similar Ingredients

Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil — common questions

What is Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil in skincare?

White mineral oil (petroleum) a highly refined petroleum mineral oil consisting of a complex combination of hydrocarbons obtained from the intensive treatment of a petroleum fraction with sulfuric acid and oleum, or by hydrogenation, or by a combination of hydrogenation and acid treatment. Additional washing and treating steps may be included in the processing operation. It consists of saturated hydrocarbons having carbon numbers predominantly in the range of C15 through C50. Mineral oil (US)

What does Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil do? / Functions of Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil?

Common functions: ANTISTATIC, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SKIN PROTECTING, SOLVENT.

What is the comedogenic rating of Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil? / Is Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil comedogenic?
1 1/5 — Very low risk

Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is unlikely to clog pores.

Does it clog pores?
Unlikely to Clog Pores

Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil is unlikely to clog pores (rating 1/5).

Is Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil safe for skin?
2 2/5 — Low risk

Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil has a safety rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: Highly refined mineral oil is generally non-comedogenic and non-irritating. According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), it is considered safe for use in cosmetics when formulated to be readily

Is Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil good for sensitive skin?
1 1/5 — Very low risk

Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil has an irritancy rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is generally well-tolerated.

What are the side effects of Paraffinum Liquidum/ Mineral oil in skincare?

Known considerations: Highly refined mineral oil is generally non-comedogenic and non-irritating. According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), it is considered safe for use in cosmetics when formulated to be readily washable. Does not clog pores; remains on the skin surface and is non-comedogenic when cosmetic-grade. Very low irritation and allergy risk; suitable even for sensitive and compromised skin.

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