Is petroleum jelly the same as mineral oil?

Is petroleum jelly the same as mineral oil?

Petrolatum, often called petroleum jelly in cosmetics, is its semi-solid state; the kind of mineral oil you’ll see in beauty products is the liquid’s refined synthetic state. “It’s the industrial-grade mineral oil that gives the cosmetic-grade oil a bad name,” says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD.

Is petroleum a mineral oil?

Mineral oil is a clear, odorless liquid and a common ingredient in a variety of cosmetics and personal care products. Mineral oil is made from highly refined, purified and processed petroleum.

What category is petroleum jelly?

Petroleum jelly, petrolatum, white petrolatum, soft paraffin, or multi-hydrocarbon, CAS number 8009-03-8, is a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons (with carbon numbers mainly higher than 25), originally promoted as a topical ointment for its healing properties.

Why is mineral oil harmful?

Mineral oil is an occlusive emollient, meaning that it helps to keep your skin hydrated by locking in moisture by forming a barrier on your skin’s surface. Based on my research, it’s actually considered very safe and rarely causes irritation or an allergic reaction.

Why is petroleum jelly bad for you?

Unrefined petroleum jelly does contain some potentially dangerous contaminants. The EWG suggest that a group of carcinogens called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons could cause cancer and damage the reproductive organs. While vaseline can be used as lubricant if there are no better options, it is not recommended.

Why you should stop using petroleum jelly on your skin?

One concern with using petroleum jelly on your skin is that your body can’t metabolize it. Therefore, petroleum jelly provides no benefit to your skin or body other than softening dry skin. Some research also suggests that petroleum jelly contains harmful substances that can build up in the body.

Is mineral oil bad for cosmetics?

Now why mineral oil is bad for you: “Mineral oil has also been linked to a number of skin problems, including acne. The problem with mineral oil in moisturizers and other skin care products and cosmetics is that it clogs the pores of the skin.

Where does mineral oil come from?

Mineral oil is derived from fossilized plankton and algae found deep inside Earth’s crust, so it is completely natural (2). It is then refined through multiple processes to arrive at its cosmetic form, but its source is anything but synthetic. The pros and cons of mineral oil continue to be debated.

Is mineral oil toxic?

Mineral Oil is not a toxic waste created when petrol products such as gasoline and motor oil are made. This by-product can be disposed of in our environment, so it is sold very expensively to cosmetic companies who then use it as a base for their products.