Is Mineral Oil Comedogenic?
Comedogenic rating: 0/5 — Non-comedogenic
Mineral Oil is an occlusive that forms a barrier to seal water into the skin. In cosmetics it is typically found in balms, ointments, night creams and 'slugging' products. Its INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name is Paraffinum Liquidum. On a label it may also appear as paraffinum liquidum, liquid paraffin.
| Comedogenic rating | 0/5 — Non-comedogenic |
|---|---|
| Pore-clogging | Unlikely |
| Fungal-acne safe | Yes |
| Category | Occlusive |
| INCI name | Paraffinum Liquidum |
| Also known as | paraffinum liquidum, liquid paraffin |
Is Mineral Oil comedogenic?
No — Mineral Oil scores 0 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale. It is considered non-comedogenic and will not clog pores for the overwhelming majority of users, which makes it a reliable choice for acne-prone, oily and congestion-prone skin.
Does Mineral Oil cause fungal acne?
Mineral Oil is generally considered fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe. It is not among the oils, fatty acids or polysorbates known to feed Malassezia yeast, so it should not aggravate fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) for most people.
Should you use Mineral Oil if you're acne-prone?
Mineral Oil is suitable for virtually all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. You can generally use it with confidence in daily skincare.
How Mineral Oil compares to other occlusives
| Ingredient | Rating | Pore-clogging |
|---|---|---|
| Mineral Oil | 0/5 | Unlikely |
| Petrolatum | 0/5 | Unlikely |
Frequently asked questions
Is Mineral Oil comedogenic?
No — Mineral Oil scores 0 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale. It is considered non-comedogenic and will not clog pores for the overwhelming majority of users, which makes it a reliable choice for acne-prone, oily and congestion-prone skin.
Does Mineral Oil cause fungal acne?
Mineral Oil is generally considered fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe. It is not among the oils, fatty acids or polysorbates known to feed Malassezia yeast, so it should not aggravate fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) for most people.
Is Mineral Oil safe for acne-prone skin?
Mineral Oil is suitable for virtually all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. You can generally use it with confidence in daily skincare.
What products is Mineral Oil found in?
Mineral Oil is an occlusive that forms a barrier to seal water into the skin, and is commonly found in balms, ointments, night creams and 'slugging' products.
What can I use instead of Mineral Oil?
Look for non-comedogenic emollients rated 0–1 such as squalane, glycerin, hemp seed oil or sunflower oil.
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