Snapshot
- Overview
- A gentle petroleum-derived oil that seals in moisture and softens skin.
- Category
- Barrier Support, Hydration, Skin Conditioning
- Type
- Occlusive
Mineral Oil
Mineral oil is a highly refined, inert hydrocarbon oil sourced from petroleum, used to create an occlusive layer that reduces transepidermal water loss, buffers against irritants in formulas, and leaves skin feeling soft without clogging pores for most users.
Like this ingredient?
Our take
Is Mineral Oil a Good Ingredient?
Highly refined and inert, it's stable, effectively reduces transepidermal water loss, and shows low irritation and sensitization in dermatology literature, which earns it Great. Decades of clinical use and data back it up as a reliable occlusive for barrier support.
What it does
Skin Benefits
Seals in moisture to minimize dryness and flaking, leaving skin feeling silky and supple, and is generally well tolerated and unlikely to clog pores for most users.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
Common in moisturizers, ointments, and barrier balms, as well as makeup-removing cleansers and baby oils. Often used in lip treatments and hand creams for intensive softness.
Before you use it
Safety
Considered safe for cosmetic use with a low likelihood of irritation or sensitization. Usually non-comedogenic for most, though acne-prone users may still prefer to patch test.
Products with Mineral Oil
