Must be highly refined (food/pharmaceutical grade), crude mineral oil is IARC Group 1 carcinogen; highly refined cosmetic-grade is safe; not COSMOS-permitted; occlusive; no penetration; excellent barrier function
Function & Common Use
Emollient / Occlusive
Emollient
Baby oils barrier creams cold creams
Mineral (petrochemical)
Concentration Limits
No limit
No limit
No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked
No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category
Baby restriction: Highly refined grade only
Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mineral Oil safe to use in skincare?
Mineral Oil has a High concern rating. Must be highly refined (food/pharmaceutical grade), crude mineral oil is IARC Group 1 carcinogen; highly refined cosmetic-grade is safe; not COSMOS-permitted; occlusive; no penetration; excellent barrier function
Is Mineral Oil allowed in India?
Mineral Oil is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. No concentration limit is specified for India.
What is Mineral Oil used for in cosmetics?
Mineral Oil functions as: Emollient / Occlusive. It is commonly found in: Baby oils barrier creams cold creams.
Is Mineral Oil safe for babies?
Mineral Oil has baby/child restrictions: Highly refined grade only. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
Identifiers
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