Paraffin oil in skincare: safe or not so harmless after all?
If you've ever looked at the ingredients list of a skin care product, you've undoubtedly come across names like paraffinum liquidum, mineral oil or paraffin oil. Maybe even Vaseline. These are all names for ingredients from the same family of substances that are extracted from petroleum. It may sound a bit strange, oil on your skin from petrochemicals, but it has been used in cosmetics for years because of one simple effect: it seals your skin so that no moisture is lost. In theory ideal. In practice… not always.
What does paraffin oil do on your skin?
Paraffin oil forms a sealing layer over your skin. As a result, less moisture evaporates and your skin continues to feel softer. This may seem pleasant at first, especially with dry or damaged skin. It provides immediate comfort and a kind of protective layer.
But that 'protection' is not without disadvantages. Because paraffin seals your skin, the natural recovery process of your skin can be inhibited. The skin becomes dependent on that sealing layer and eventually loses its own ability to retain moisture. Moreover, that layer can become hot for some people, resulting in itching, redness or worsening of existing skin problems such as eczema.
Paraffin oil: safe, but not for everyone
Paraffin oil is often considered a safe ingredient in the cosmetics industry. And technically it is: it is approved, purified and widely used. But it is not hypoallergenic. In practice, it appears that a surprisingly large group of people do respond sensitively to it. Think of redness, itching or a brooding feeling, especially on skin that is already vulnerable.
For us, that's enough reason not to use it. With Hypogeen we have the mission to create skin care that is truly hypoallergenic and minimizes the risk of skin irritations. Then we prefer not to take any risks. That's why we avoid ingredients that occlude the skin or increase the risk of a reaction. No paraffin oil, no petrolatum, no petroleum derivatives. Instead, we choose vegetable oils that are mild, well tolerated and really do something for your skin. Ingredients that work with your skin, instead of blocking it.
What we do use
Instead of paraffin oil, we use skin-friendly alternatives that also help with dry or sensitive skin, but without a occlusive effect. Take squalane, for example. This is a clear, light oil that also occurs naturally in your skin. Squalane hydrates, is quickly absorbed, does not feel greasy and does not close the skin. It supports the skin barrier instead of blocking it. An ideal ingredient for anyone looking for something gentle and nourishing, without any risks.
Another favorite ingredient of ours is jojoba oil. This oil is very similar in structure to the sebum that your skin produces itself. This makes it well tolerated, even by the most sensitive skin. It helps the skin remain supple, without feeling heavy or clogging the pores. Both squalane and jojoba oil are plant-based, light and hypoallergenic – exactly what your skin needs if it quickly becomes out of balance.
Our vision of truly hypoallergenic
The word “hypoallergenic” is often used, but not always well substantiated. For us it means: leaving out what the skin does not need. No perfume, no dyes, no mineral oils. And therefore no paraffin oil or Vaseline. We make products that respect the skin. That support the natural balance of your skin, without clogging it or making it dependent on one ingredient. Precisely because we know how frustrating it is when your skin seems to react to everything.
Are you currently using a cream with paraffin oil or Vaseline and do you notice that your skin quickly becomes dry or irritated? Then maybe it's time to try without it. At Hypogeen, all our products are free from paraffin oil and Vaseline, and developed with the most sensitive skin types in mind💙.
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