Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride vs Paraffinum Liquidum: which is worse?

What is Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride?

Caprylic/capric triglyceride (CCT) is a mixture of medium-chain triglycerides (caprylic acid C8 and capric acid C10) derived from coconut oil or palm kernel oil. It is a light, odorless, dry-feeling emollient and carrier oil widely considered one of the most versatile cosmetic ingredients.

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.

Documented risks

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride: Caprylic/capric triglyceride is one of the safest cosmetic ingredients with essentially no known safety concerns. The CIR has reviewed medium-chain triglycerides and confirmed their safety. It does not clog pores (comedogenicity rating 1–2/5), is suitable for all skin types including acne-prone, and is used in the most sensitive formulations. No carcinogenic, mutagenic, or endocrine-disrupting effects are known. It is suitable for vegan formulations (plant-derived).

Paraffinum Liquidum: 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.