Paraffinum Liquidum: What Is That Mineral Oil on Your Label?
Arin Editorial · how this is made
You often see it in creams, serums, and makeup removers: Paraffinum Liquidum. The name sounds like a lab, but behind it is mineral oil. So what do we know and not know about this oil? Here is the picture from the records.
Name and origin
Mineral oil does not mean one single substance. The term has been used for many different oils for centuries. Merriam-Webster dates its first use to 1771. Since the 1960s it has been produced with a heavy hydro-treatment process, which is the most important step in determining the oil's quality.
What do the safety records show?
Genetic damage tests in EPA's toxicology compilation are conflicting: some saw an effect, some did not. This table alone gives no definitive result; dose, species, and route of exposure must be evaluated together. For cancer, the record says 'inadequate information.' Eye irritation is classified as Category 2B, skin irritation as Category 3, and skin sensitization is not classified.
Why is it still debated?
The main debate centers on two points. First, there are lists that call mineral oil comedogenic, meaning pore-clogging. Those lists were compiled years ago but still get quoted in dermatology literature. Second, raw mineral oils can contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) like benzo[a]pyrene. The EU cosmetics regulation allows benzo[a]pyrene in raw mineral oils at up to 0.005%.
Limits differ by route
For mineral oil mist in workplace air, OSHA and NIOSH set a limit of 5 mg/m³. These values target inhalation exposure and should not be confused with applying the oil to skin in cosmetics. The benzo[a]pyrene limit in raw material is specific to cosmetic ingredients.
The EU has a benzo[a]pyrene limit for cosmetic raw materials; mineral oil is not banned, but the cancer evaluation is 'inadequate' due to lack of data.
When you see Paraffinum Liquidum on a label, first check its position in the list; if it is near the top, the amount is high. If you have acne-prone skin, you may be cautious because of the old comedogenic lists. But those lists were prepared years ago; they are not enough on their own to avoid the ingredient. If you feel any discomfort on your skin, stop using the product.
Sources
- EPA ToxValDB
- Merriam-Webster
- European Commission, Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, Annex II
- OSHA - NIOSH