
General Description:
Paraffinum Liquidum, also known as Mineral Oil, is a highly refined, clear, odorless, and colorless oil derived from petroleum. It undergoes extensive purification processes to meet pharmaceutical and cosmetic-grade standards, ensuring safety and purity. It is inert, stable, and non-reactive, making it suitable for use in formulations where occlusive properties and moisture retention are needed.
Uses in the Cosmetic Industry:
Primary Functions:
Occlusive Agent: Forms a barrier on the skin surface to prevent moisture loss.
Emollient: Softens and smooths skin by filling in cracks and gaps in the skin barrier.
Solvent: Helps dissolve other oil-based ingredients.
Lubricant: Improves texture and spreadability in creams and lotions.
Common Applications:
Moisturizers and body lotions
Baby oils and diaper rash products
Lip balms and ointmentsa
Hair oils and scalp treatments
Makeup removers and cleansing balms
Hazards & Safety Considerations:
General Safety:
Cosmetic-grade Paraffinum Liquidum is non-toxic, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic.
It is considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel and approved by the FDA.
- Toxicity Concerns: Only highly refined versions are used in cosmetics. Industrial or technical-grade mineral oils may contain impurities such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are not allowed in cosmetic applications.
- Environmental Impact: Derived from non-renewable fossil sources
Not readily biodegradable
Its use in eco-conscious formulations is increasingly being phased out in favor of natural alternatives. - Allergenicity: Very low risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Safe for sensitive skin and baby care when properly refined.
CAS Number: 8012-95-1 (generic mineral oil)
8042-47-5 (highly refined white mineral oil used in cosmetics)
INCI Name: Paraffinum Liquidum
Composition: A complex mixture of saturated hydrocarbons (CₙH₂ₙ₊₂)
Derived from the distillation of petroleum, then highly purified to remove impurities
Composed primarily of liquid alkanes and cycloalkanes
Purity Grade: Cosmetic and pharmaceutical grade
Free from aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
Complies with USP, EP, BP, and cosmetic regulation standards
Appearance: Clear, colorless, and odorless oily liquid
Solubility: Insoluble in water
Soluble in ether, benzene, chloroform, and petroleum-based solvents
Preservation: Self-preserving in pure form
Does not support microbial growth due to lack of water content
Storage: Store in cool, dry, and well-ventilated environment
Keep away from direct sunlight and heat
Recommended temperature: 15–30°C (59–86°F)
Shelf life: Typically 3–5 years if properly stored in sealed containers
Raw Material Sources: Derived from crude petroleum
Undergoes hydrotreatment, dewaxing, and de-aromatization to meet cosmetic-grade specifications
Manufacture: Processed through fractional distillation and then refined using hydrogenation and filtration
Strict vacuum distillation and adsorption techniques remove impurities and potential contaminants
Animal Testing: Not tested on animals (when sourced from certified cruelty-free suppliers)
EU and many global markets ban animal testing for cosmetic ingredients
GMO Status: Non-GMO
Not derived from genetically modified organisms
Vegan Status: Vegan-friendly
Does not contain animal-derived ingredients
Warnings and Regulatory Notes:For external use only
Avoid contact with eyes in raw form
Use only refined, cosmetic-grade mineral oil in formulations
Not suitable for eco-labeled or biodegradable product claims due to its petrochemical origin and low biodegradability
Regulatory approved by FDA, EU Cosmetic Regulation, Health Canada, ASEAN, etc.
THE STORY OF PARAFFIUM LIQUIDUM
Paraffinum Liquidum: The Ultra-Pure Mineral Oil for Smooth, Protected Skin
Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil) is a highly refined, colorless, and odorless cosmetic-grade oil valued for its exceptional purity and skin-protective qualities. Known for creating a soft, smooth, occlusive film, it helps reduce moisture loss, improves glide, and enhances the luxurious feel of modern skincare and personal-care formulations.
Refined to Exceptional Purity Through Advanced Filtration
Paraffinum Liquidum is derived from carefully selected petroleum fractions, then extensively purified through hydrogenation, distillation, and multi-stage filtration. The result is a stable, inert, pharmaceutical-grade oil free from aromatic compounds and impurities—safe and suitable for cosmetic, dermatological, and baby-care applications.
Silky Texture, Superior Glide, and Lasting Moisture Protection
In cosmetics, Paraffinum Liquidum acts as a skin-conditioning agent, emollient, and occlusive moisturizer.
It forms a protective barrier that prevents water loss, enhances smooth glide, and improves the richness of creams, lotions, ointments, and cleansing formulations. Its inert nature makes it ideal for sensitive skin, baby care, and dermatological treatments.
Highly Stable, Dermatologist-Approved, and Formulator Friendly
Used in moisturizers, baby oils, makeup removers, ointments, balms, and hair products.
Recommended usage: generally 1–50%, depending on texture and formulation needs.
Store in sealed containers away from heat and direct sunlight.
Cosmetic-grade Paraffinum Liquidum is non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, inert, and globally approved, making it one of the most trusted ingredients in skincare and personal care.
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is Paraffinum Liquidum?
Paraffinum Liquidum, also known as Mineral Oil, is a highly refined, clear, odorless oil derived from petroleum. It is used in cosmetics for its moisturizing, protective, and emollient properties.
2. What is the CAS Number and INCI Name of Paraffinum Liquidum?
CAS Number: 8012-95-1 or 8042-47-5 (cosmetic/pharmaceutical grade)
INCI Name: Paraffinum Liquidum
3. Is Paraffinum Liquidum safe for use in personal care products?
Yes. When highly refined and used in accordance with regulations, Paraffinum Liquidum is safe, non-irritating, and non-comedogenic. It is approved by the FDA, EU Cosmetic Regulation, and other global regulatory bodies.
4. What are the main uses of Paraffinum Liquidum in cosmetics?
Paraffinum Liquidum is widely used in:
Moisturizers and body lotions
Baby care products (e.g., baby oil)
Lip balms and ointments
Hair oils and scalp treatments
Makeup removers and cleansing oils
Its key functions include hydration, barrier protection, and improving product texture.
5. Is Paraffinum Liquidum comedogenic? Will it clog pores?
No. Cosmetic-grade Paraffinum Liquidum is non-comedogenic. It does not penetrate deeply into pores and is generally safe for acne-prone and sensitive skin when formulated properly.
6. Is Paraffinum Liquidum a natural or synthetic ingredient?
It is a synthetic ingredient derived from refined petroleum, a naturally occurring mineral source. While not “natural” by green beauty standards, it is chemically stable and inert, making it suitable for sensitive formulations.
7. Is Paraffinum Liquidum vegan and cruelty-free?
Vegan: Yes, it contains no animal-derived substances.
Cruelty-Free: When sourced from certified suppliers, it is not tested on animals in accordance with cruelty-free standards and regulations like the EU ban.
8. Is Paraffinum Liquidum biodegradable?
No, Paraffinum Liquidum is not readily biodegradable and is derived from non-renewable fossil fuels. This makes it unsuitable for brands seeking eco-label certifications or pursuing sustainable formulation goals.
9. Can Paraffinum Liquidum be used in natural or organic products?
Because it is petroleum-derived, Paraffinum Liquidum is not permitted in certified organic formulations and is typically avoided in natural cosmetic lines, even though it is highly purified and safe.
10. Is Paraffinum Liquidum regulated?
Yes. It is strictly regulated to ensure purity and safety. Only white, pharmaceutical- or cosmetic-grade mineral oil is allowed in personal care products. It complies with USP, EP, BP, FDA, EU, and more.