Glossary
A refined petroleum byproduct widely used in conventional skincare as an emollient and occlusive. While technically effective at preventing moisture loss, mineral oil provides no active nourishment to the skin and is derived from non-renewable crude oil refining.
Mineral oil is a highly refined fraction of crude petroleum. After crude oil is distilled to produce gasoline, lubricants, and other products, the remaining fractions undergo extensive purification to remove potential carcinogens (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons). The result is a clear, odorless, lightweight oil that the cosmetics industry has used for over a century because it is cheap to produce, extremely stable, and has a long shelf life.
Mineral oil goes by many names on ingredient labels: mineral oil, paraffinum liquidum, petrolatum (its semi-solid form), white oil, liquid paraffin, and cera microcristallina (microcrystalline wax). It is the primary ingredient in many baby oils, makeup removers, hand creams, and lip balms.
From a pure functionality standpoint, mineral oil is an effective occlusive. It creates a film on the skin surface that reduces transepidermal water loss. Cosmetic-grade mineral oil has a comedogenic rating of 0-1, meaning it is unlikely to directly clog pores. Dermatologists who support its use point to its long safety record and its effectiveness for severely dry or eczematous skin.
Critics raise several points. First, mineral oil coats the skin but does not deliver any vitamins, fatty acids, or active compounds. Unlike shea butter, argan oil, or beeswax, it is nutritionally inert. Second, its petroleum origin raises sustainability and environmental concerns. Third, the very effectiveness of its occlusive properties can create a dependence cycle where the skin's own moisture-regulation processes are suppressed by the constant external barrier.
We do not use mineral oil, petrolatum, or any petroleum derivatives in any of our products. Our occlusive is beeswax, which provides a breathable barrier while contributing natural vitamin A. Our emollients are shea butter, coconut oil, and other plant-derived ingredients that deliver active nourishment with every application. We believe that what you put on your skin should come from nature, not from an oil refinery.
Cosmetic-grade mineral oil is generally considered safe by the FDA and most dermatological organizations. However, it provides no active nutrition to the skin and is derived from petroleum. Many consumers choose to avoid it in favor of plant-derived alternatives that provide both moisture and nourishment.
Highly refined cosmetic-grade mineral oil has a low comedogenic rating (0-1). However, less refined forms or formulations combining mineral oil with other heavy ingredients can contribute to pore congestion. The answer depends on the specific product and individual skin type.
They are related products from the same source. Mineral oil is a liquid fraction of refined petroleum. Petroleum jelly (petrolatum, brand name Vaseline) is a semi-solid mixture of mineral oils and waxes. Both are petroleum derivatives used as occlusives in skincare.
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