Mineral oil is a product made through the refining of petroleum. It may be used to moisturize the skin, hair, and cuticles, and it can also help support bowel function.
This is because mineral oil has moisturizing, laxative, conditioning, and solvent properties. It is also known as liquid paraffin (sometimes called “Vaseline oil”) and is sold in pharmacies and used to make cosmetic products such as lipsticks, moisturizers, and makeup removers.
Mineral oil can be taken by mouth or applied directly to the skin, and it can also be mixed into creams or hair products. However, even though it is considered safe, it is recommended to talk with a doctor before using mineral oil due to possible side effects and contraindications.
Main uses
Mineral oil can be used for:
1. Moisturizing the skin
Because it helps reduce water loss from the skin, mineral oil can moisturize dry skin and skin that is irritated by cold weather. It is especially effective for very dry skin because it helps lock in moisture and nourish the skin quickly and effectively.
Mineral oil is found in many beauty and skincare products, such as makeup, creams, ointments, and lotions.
How to use: mineral oil can be applied on its own directly to clean, dry skin, or mixed into a moisturizing cream to help improve absorption.
2. Improving bowel function
Mineral oil acts as a lubricating laxative. It helps retain water in the stool and intestines, which softens the stool, makes bowel movements easier, and supports healthy bowel function.
How to use: it is generally recommended to drink 1 Tbsp of purified mineral oil (about 15 mL) at night on an empty stomach, followed by a glass of water.
However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking mineral oil by mouth so the appropriate dose can be recommended, as it may vary depending on each person’s weight and age.
3. Treating sunburn
To treat sunburn without blisters, purified mineral oil may be recommended. This is because it moisturizes and soothes the skin, helping relieve symptoms such as discomfort, redness, dryness, and a burning sensation.
Mineral oil can also help soothe diaper rash, which is common in babies.
How to use: apply to the skin 2 to 3 times per day and let it air-dry.
4. Moisturizing the cuticles
Mineral oil can be used to moisturize dry cuticles, and may be found in creams and lotions.
How to use: apply the mineral oil or a cream containing this ingredient directly to clean, dry nails before bed, then gently massage.
5. Removing makeup
Mineral oil can be used as a makeup remover because its solvent properties help dissolve and remove makeup, especially water-resistant products.
How to use: place a few drops of mineral oil on a cotton pad and wipe over the face. Then wash the area with water and mild soap.
6. Moisturizing hair
Mineral oil can moisturize dry, brittle hair and help add shine and softness. This is because it has a conditioning effect and forms a thin layer over the hair shaft, helping retain moisture.
However, it is recommended to use it only once per week so it does not leave hair greasy or contribute to scalp flaking.
How to use: after showering, apply a few drops of mineral oil to damp hair, focusing on the strands and avoiding the roots.
Leave the oil on for 3 to 5 minutes, then gently comb the hair with a soft-bristle brush or wide-tooth comb to help it absorb more effectively.
Mineral oil for babies
Mineral oil may be recommended for a baby’s skin to help keep it moisturized and to support care for diaper rash.
However, mineral oil should not be given by mouth to babies due to the risk of accidental aspiration.
How to take
Mineral oil can be taken to help treat constipation and typically takes 6 to 8 hours to work and stimulate a bowel movement.
This oil should be taken at night on an empty stomach, or at least 2 to 4 hours after taking medications or supplements.
The typical recommendation is to take about 15 mL of purified mineral oil daily, but the exact dose should always be determined by a healthcare provider based on individual age and needs.
Do not use mineral oil for more than 7 days unless directed by a healthcare provider, and avoid lying down right after taking it.
Side effects
Taking too much mineral oil by mouth can cause side effects such as anal leakage, which can stain clothing and cause itching or irritation around the anus.
In addition, taking large amounts of mineral oil can also cause abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and dehydration.
Using mineral oil for more than 7 days may also cause the body to become dependent on laxatives and may lead to intestinal damage.
In some people, mineral oil may also cause an allergic reaction, including symptoms such as a skin rash, itching, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Risks of injecting mineral oil
Injecting mineral oil is not a legal or recommended practice by medical societies.
This is because, when injected, mineral oil can cause complications such as:
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Paraffinoma (oleoma), which is the body’s reaction to injections of oily substances;
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Local damage, such as irregular, hardened plaques and ulcers;
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Symptoms similar to autoimmune or inflammatory diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic sclerosis;
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Genital complications when applied to the penis, such as necrosis, deformities, impaired erectile function, ulcerations, and paraffinoma;
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Granulomas.
In addition, injecting mineral oil can also cause complications such as pneumonitis, pulmonary embolism, and death.
Contraindications for use
Mineral oil taken by mouth should not be used by children under 6 years old, older adults, people who are allergic to any component of the product, or people who are bedridden or have conditions that make swallowing difficult.
Taking mineral oil is contraindicated for people with bowel obstruction, rectal bleeding, symptoms of appendicitis, hiatal hernia, or gastroparesis.
People who use medications or supplements should consult a healthcare provider before taking mineral oil, as it may reduce the absorption of medications and supplements.
Mineral oil should only be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding with a doctor’s recommendation and guidance.
On the skin, mineral oil should not be applied in the case of open wounds or signs of infection.