Paraffinum Liquidum vs Petrolatum: which is worse?

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.

What is Petrolatum?

Petrolatum is a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum refining. It forms an occlusive barrier on the skin surface, sealing in moisture and protecting against external irritants. It has been used in skincare since 1872.

Documented risks

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.

Petrolatum: Fully refined white petrolatum (as used in cosmetics) is considered safe by the FDA and CIR, and is an FDA-approved OTC skin protectant. The EU restricts petrolatum unless full refining history is known due to concerns about polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in inadequately refined grades. Cosmetic-grade petrolatum in the US undergoes extensive refining that removes PAHs. It does not penetrate the skin, is non-comedogenic in pure form, and has no evidence of systemic toxicity or endocrine disruption at cosmetic use.