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Answer: Paraffinum Liquidum is restricted (not fully banned) in EU. The FDA still allows it in US cosmetics and personal-care products. Risk level: low. Commonly found in: Johnson's Baby Oil, Neutrogena Body Oil, Olay Complete Body Lotion.
TL;DR: Paraffinum Liquidum is restricted in the EU but allowed in the US (emollient).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
INCI name PARAFFINUM LIQUIDUM. Also called Mineral Oil. CAS 8042-47-5.
Other names: Mineral Oil, White Mineral Oil, Liquid Paraffin
| 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 |
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.
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.
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.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Paraffinum Liquidumwith citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Plant-based alternatives include jojoba oil, squalane, or caprylic/capric triglyceride for those preferring non-petroleum emollients.
Cosmetic-grade highly refined mineral oil is safe for skin use. Concerns arise from occupational exposure to inadequately refined grades, not from cosmetic applications.
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.
Not banned, but restricted. Only mineral oils with documented, adequate refining are permitted in EU cosmetics to ensure PAH contamination is absent.
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