Is Paraffinum Liquidum Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Paraffinum Liquidum is restricted in the EU but allowed in the US (emollient).
INCI name PARAFFINUM LIQUIDUM. Also called Mineral Oil. CAS 8042-47-5.
Other names: Mineral Oil, White Mineral Oil, Liquid Paraffin
Is Paraffinum Liquidum banned in the EU?
| EU status | Restricted |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Johnson's Baby Oil, Neutrogena Body Oil, Olay Complete Body Lotion, Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula |
| CAS number | 8042-47-5 |
What is Paraffinum Liquidum?
Paraffinum liquidum is the INCI name for mineral oil — a highly refined, colorless, odorless petroleum-derived hydrocarbon liquid. It has been a staple cosmetic emollient for over a century.
Why is Paraffinum Liquidum used in personal-care products?
Used as an emollient and occlusive agent in lotions, creams, baby oils, and cleansing oils. It spreads easily, provides a smooth skin feel, and prevents moisture loss by forming a physical barrier.
Is Paraffinum Liquidum dangerous? Documented risks
Cosmetic-grade paraffinum liquidum (highly refined mineral oil) is considered safe by the CIR and FDA. The EU restricts use based on refining grade, specifically prohibiting inadequately refined mineral oils that may contain carcinogenic PAH compounds. Highly refined grades (used in cosmetics globally) have no identified carcinogenic risk. Mineral oil does not penetrate intact skin and is not absorbed systemically. It is non-comedogenic at low concentrations; higher concentrations may contribute to congestion in acne-prone skin. Inhalation of mineral oil mist in occupational settings is a separate concern not applicable to cosmetic topical use.
Products that may contain Paraffinum Liquidum
- GUMMIESLIFE SAVERS
- Nivea Soft Moisturizing CrèmeNivea
- Pantene Pro-V Classic Clean ConditionerPantene
- Eucerin Original Healing CreamEucerin
- Nivea Essentially Enriched Body LotionNivea
- Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion Fragrance-FreeLubriderm
- CoverGirl Clean Pressed Powder FoundationCoverGirl
- Swedish Fish Original Soft & Chewy CandySwedish Fish
How to avoid Paraffinum Liquidum: safer alternatives
Plant-based alternatives include jojoba oil, squalane, or caprylic/capric triglyceride for those preferring non-petroleum emollients.
Frequently asked questions about Paraffinum Liquidum
Is mineral oil in skincare safe?
Cosmetic-grade highly refined mineral oil is safe for skin use. Concerns arise from occupational exposure to inadequately refined grades, not from cosmetic applications.
Does mineral oil clog pores?
Pure cosmetic-grade mineral oil is rated as non-comedogenic. However, some people find it too occlusive, especially in high concentrations in formulas for oily or acne-prone skin.
Is mineral oil banned in the EU?
Not banned, but restricted. Only mineral oils with documented, adequate refining are permitted in EU cosmetics to ensure PAH contamination is absent.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Paraffinum Liquidum or other ingredients banned overseas.
Scan a product free →Related emollient
Avoiding banned beauty ingredients? Check your food, too.
Sources
- Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Mineral Oil — Cosmetic Ingredient Review
- EU Annex II Restrictions — Mineral Oils — European Commission CosIng
- EWG Skin Deep: Mineral Oil — Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.