HYDROGENATED MINERAL OIL
Commonly Found In
Overview
HYDROGENATED MINERAL OIL is a petroleum-derived ingredient produced by catalytic hydrogenation of mineral oil fractions, which saturates residual unsaturated hydrocarbons and increases stability. It functions as an occlusive emollient and skin-conditioning agent, forming a barrier on the skin to reduce transepidermal water loss. In the EU, certain grades of hydrogenated mineral oil are restricted (Annex II/778) if they contain more than 3% DMSO extract, while refined grades with lower aromatic content may be permitted. The US and Japan permit use of refined grades in cosmetics, and the CIR has concluded that highly refined mineral oils are safe for cosmetic use.
Also known as: Hydrogenated Mineral Oil, Hydrotreated Paraffinic Mineral Oil, White Oil (pharmaceutical)
Key Benefits
Studies suggest that hydrogenated mineral oil may provide occlusive moisturizing effects by reducing transepidermal water loss, similar to petrolatum. Clinical evidence from CIR indicates that highly refined mineral oils are safe and effective emollients at cosmetic use concentrations.
Supporting Research
- β’ CIR Expert Panel β comprehensive safety assessment of mineral oil including hydrogenated grades
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Comedogenicity is grade-dependent; highly refined pharmaceutical-grade mineral oils are generally considered low comedogenic risk
Source: Kligman & Mills comedogenicity scale; CIR Expert Panel
Irritancy Rating
Non-irritating when highly refined; impurities in unrefined grades may cause irritation
Source: CIR Expert Panel Final Report on mineral oils
Typical Use Concentration
Range
1β50%
Optimal
5β20% in emollient formulations
EU: restricted if DMSO extract >3% (Annex II/778). US: FDA permits refined grades. Japan: permitted.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Use With Caution
Occlusive emollient providing long-lasting moisture retention. EU restricts grades with DMSO extract >3%; cosmetic-grade hydrogenated mineral oil must meet EU purity specifications. US and Japan permit refined grades.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Banned | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (II/778. Distillates (petroleum), hydrotreated heavy paraffinic, if they contain > 3 % w/w DMSO extract.) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
The EU restricts hydrogenated mineral oil grades with >3% DMSO extract due to concerns about polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contamination, which may have carcinogenic potential. Highly refined grades with <3% DMSO extract are permitted. The US and Japan permit use of refined grades. This divergence reflects the EU's more precautionary approach to petroleum-derived ingredients in cosmetics.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU, UK but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 84 ingredients in the SKIN PROTECTING category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Derived from petroleum (crude oil). Mineral oil itself is a byproduct of petroleum distillation. The hydrogenated version undergoes additional processing for stability.
π How It's Made
Produced by catalytic hydrogenation of mineral oil at high temperature and pressure. This process saturates any remaining unsaturated hydrocarbons, improving stability and removing impurities.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used in cosmetic products primarily for skin protecting.
π¬ Other Applications
Regular mineral oil is used as a laxative, food-grade lubricant, in food processing (bread, candy), wood treatment, and as a dust suppressant.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ The EU banned hydrogenated mineral oil from cosmetics while allowing regular highly-refined mineral oil β the distinction is based on the refining process and purity level
- β’ Mineral oil is one of the most controversial cosmetic ingredients, with fierce debates between those who consider it safe and those who avoid petroleum-derived ingredients
- β’ Despite the controversy, baby oil is essentially just mineral oil with fragrance added
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex II/778
- β’ CIR Expert Panel Final Report on mineral oils
- β’ FDA cosmetic ingredient database
- β’ Japan MHLW cosmetic ingredient database
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
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CANNABIS SATIVA FLOWER/LEAF/STEM EXTRACT
TALC
ZINC ASCORBATE HYDROXIDE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is HYDROGENATED MINERAL OIL banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning HYDROGENATED MINERAL OIL under II/778. Distillates (petroleum), hydrotreated heavy paraffinic, if they contain > 3 % w/w DMSO extract. due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is HYDROGENATED MINERAL OIL banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits HYDROGENATED MINERAL OIL (II/778. Distillates (petroleum), hydrotreated heavy paraffinic, if they contain > 3 % w/w DMSO extract.) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is HYDROGENATED MINERAL OIL used for in cosmetics?
HYDROGENATED MINERAL OIL is primarily used for skin protecting in cosmetic products. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate HYDROGENATED MINERAL OIL?
HYDROGENATED MINERAL OIL is banned in EU, UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to HYDROGENATED MINERAL OIL?
Due to regulatory restrictions on HYDROGENATED MINERAL OIL, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For skin protecting, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.