Mineral oil is a petroleum derivative used in various products, including cosmetics, lubricants, and medicines. It has different classifications based on its chemical composition and properties. While concerns have been raised about its use in cosmetics, research suggests it is generally safe. It is also used in industrial and scientific applications, as well as culinary and medical uses. However, exposure to aerosol forms can be an occupational hazard, and some people may experience allergic reactions.
Mineral oil is a clear, colorless, odorless petroleum derivative. It is chemically similar to petroleum jelly and is produced in heavy and light grades, or viscosities. There are three further classifications: paraffinic, aromatic and naphthenic, based on the type of alkanes the oil is made of and they have slightly different properties and chemical compositions. Inexpensive and easy to make, it is used in many different products, including cooling systems, lubricants, cosmetics and medicines.
Personal uses
A variety of cosmetics contain mineral oil, including popular skin care products such as cold cream and medical ointments for adults, children and babies. In a purified, semi-solid form called liquid petroleum jelly, it is often used as a base for ointments, protective dressings, and skin softeners. It is widely believed to be one of the most effective moisturizers available.
Many people have expressed concern about the role of this oil in cosmetics, particularly as it can “lock” the skin and prevent toxins from escaping. However, most researchers believe that very few toxins are expressed from the body through the skin. Unlike other skin care additives, research suggests that the refined type of oil used in cosmetics doesn’t clog pores and is generally considered safe for all skin types. People who have naturally oily skin may want to avoid items that contain it, as they can make their skin even more oily.
There are also concerns that this oil may contain harmful impurities. However, the highly refined oil that is used in personal products is not the same as that used for industrial purposes and does not contain the same impurities. There may be some legitimate fears that petrolatum (another name for mineral oil gelatin) and liquid paraffin may make skin more sensitive to the sun, so people who use products containing it should be careful to monitor their exposure to the sun. Sun.
Industrial and scientific uses
Two properties of mineral oil make it popular for use with industrial and electrical components: it does not conduct electricity and is a poor conductor of heat, and it takes the place of air and water where it is applied, so it can keep parts by corroding. Therefore, some varieties are used on tools, machines, and even the metal surface and ship components to prevent them from rusting. It also resists compression, so it is commonly used to provide strength in hydraulic assemblies.
In addition to its industrial uses, mineral oil prevents the absorption of moisture from the atmosphere, so it works well as a preservative for lithium and other alkali metals. These elements react when exposed to the atmosphere, rapidly blackening or even catching fire or exploding, depending on the metal. Some laboratories also use this substance to create an overlay for petri dish cultures.
Culinary uses
Even wooden utensils, cookware, and food preparation tools like cutting boards can benefit from the water-repellent properties of this oil. Because it is nearly odorless and tasteless, highly refined cooking oils can be used to prevent the wood from cracking and bacteria build-up without imparting an undesirable taste or odor to foods. Some people also use it to grease pans before baking or frying. Because industrial-grade oil can contain toxic impurities, cooks should only use oil that is clearly labeled as safe for cooking use.
Medical uses
Marketed as early as the 19th century under the trade name Nujol, the mineral oil has a long history as a treatment for constipation. When ingested in small amounts, it acts as an internal lubricant and prevents the large intestine from absorbing water. This also prevents the absorption of some types of nutrients, so it can cause nutritional problems if overused.
A few drops of warm, not hot, oil can also be used to soften earwax. When followed by gentle irrigation with water or hydrogen peroxide, it can help remove any excess earwax buildup in the ear canal.
Effects of exposure
While most people can use mineral oil without harmful effects, some people experience allergic reactions to it, including hives, trouble breathing, facial swelling, and tightness in the chest. Anyone with these symptoms should seek medical help promptly, as they can be dangerous. While there have been concerns about the use of high-viscosity oils as additives in foods, they are considered generally safe when consumed in moderate amounts by government agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
Exposure to aerosol forms of this substance is an occupational hazard for some workers. It is a respiratory irritant when in the form of a mist, and people who have impaired lung function can worsen their condition when exposed to it. Similarly, those with pre-existing skin disorders are more likely to develop inflammation upon contact. The risk of exposure to highly concentrated mists is a regulated occupational risk subject to workplace monitoring in many countries.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
