Mineral Oil is a hydrocarbon compound obtained from the refining process of crude oil through filtration and treatment to obtain a clear, colorless, odorless, and tasteless liquid. Well-refined mineral oil is often so pure that it can be safely used in skincare products, food, and medicine.
Mineral oil has outstanding properties in preventing moisture evaporation, providing good lubrication, and is not prone to oxidation reactions. Therefore, it is popular in various industries, from the beauty industry to the machinery industry.
What are Mineral Oils?
Although it may seem like an “industrial” ingredient, mineral oil is widely used in everyday life, such as:
• In cosmetics: lotions, lip balms, hand creams, and eye creams
• In medicine: laxatives, skin creams, and ointments for treating dry skin
• In food: coatings for fruits such as apples and pears and as a lubricant in food production lines
• In industry: machinery lubricants, brake fluids, and anti-rust oils
Is Mineral Oil Really Safe?
Mineral oil can be divided into several grades, depending on the refining process and application. They are generally divided into:
• Industrial grade: used in machinery Not safe for consumption or direct skin contact
• Pharmaceutical Grade: Through multiple refining processes, high purity, used in cosmetics, medicines and food
Organizations such as the FDA (USA) and EFSA (Europe) allow the use of mineral oil in various products if it meets safety criteria. However, there are some concerns, such as the risk of residues such as MOAH (Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons) that may accumulate in the body or affect health in the long term if consumed continuously in large quantities.
ConclusionMineral oil is more part of modern life than many people think, in personal care products, food and industry. Due to its outstanding properties and low cost, it is widely used. However, choosing mineral oil should consider the source, grade of the product and the credibility of the brand for safety for both the body and the environ
