Mineral Oil: Properties and Cosmetic Applications

What Is Mineral Oil?

Mineral Oil refers to highly refined liquid hydrocarbons derived from petroleum distillates. Other commonly used names include liquid petrolatum, liquid paraffin, paraffin oil, white oil and white mineral oil.

Medium- and low-viscosity mineral oils are produced through several refining processes, including distillation, extraction and crystallisation, followed by purification using acid treatment and/or hydrotreatment. They consist mainly of highly refined paraffinic and naphthenic liquid hydrocarbons with boiling points above 200°C.

Key Properties of Mineral Oil

Lightweight and Odourless
Mineral oils used in cosmetics are lightweight and are generally odourless and tasteless.

Highly Refined
Cosmetic-grade mineral oils undergo extensive refining and purification to achieve the required quality for cosmetic applications.

Versatile Cosmetic Ingredient
Mineral Oil is compatible with a wide range of cosmetic formulations and is particularly common in emollient and protective products.

Cosmetic Applications

Mineral Oil is commonly used in:

• Baby lotions
• Cold creams
• Ointments
• Skincare products
• Make-up removers
• Products designed to condition eyelashes

It can also be used for removing make-up and temporary tattoos.

Ingredient Information

INCI: Paraffinum Liquidum
CAS: 8042-47-5
EINECS/EC: 232-455-8

References

Cosmetic Formulation Principles and Practice – Heather A.E. Benson, Michael S. Roberts, Vânia Rodrigues Leite-Silva, Kenneth A. Walters.

‍