John Hopkins University named mineral oil in cosmetics and moisturizers as the number two cause of aging – the first being direct exposure to the sun.
Why? The reason mineral oil causes aging is that it forms a thin layer on the skin that resembles a layer of plastic. This is commonly referred to as the “cling film” effect that leads to many of the known side-effects of the use of mineral oil.
Because of this thin layer on the skin, mineral oil pulls moisture away from the skin and can contribute to dry skin and chapping -- the condition that you are trying to alleviate. This can also interfere with normal cell development, slowing down the cell renewal rate that contributes to premature aging of the skin. I know I don't want this happening to me!
Your skin needs to be able to breathe! Mineral oil coats the skin with an impermeable layer that inhibits the skin's natural ability to breathe. This can interfere with the skin's ability to eliminate toxins through sweat that can cause blocked pores and acne.
If this ingredient causes premature aging and has some serious known health risks the genuine question remains – why do so many products contain mineral oil?
Mineral oil has two benefits that cosmetic manufacturers love. Firstly, as mineral oil is essentially a leftover liquid and very abundant it is inexpensive. It is CHEAP! In fact, it is more expensive to dispose of mineral oil than to purchase it. This means higher profits for the manufacturer. Secondly, these non-biodegradable oils provide long-term oxidative stability and they have replaced natural oils in cosmetic formulations – this means they never go rancid and last forever!
Mineral oil is commonly used in baby lotions, cold creams, ointments and cosmetics. The majority of parents simply do not realize that most baby lotions are nothing but mineral oils in different forms (liquid and solid),that are modified with fragrance. Another common concern regarding the use of mineral oil is its presence on several lists of comedogenic (tending to produce or aggravate acne) substances.
Are you using products that create the very conditions you are trying to alleviate?
Before you put that lotion on yourself or someone in your family, STOP and check the back of your products then ask yourself this....
Do you really want to put crude oil on yourself?
Do you wonder why your skin does not look as young or fresh as you think it should?
Do you have problems with acne?
Do you have problems with blackheads?
Do you want to use mineral oil on your baby?
Does your baby put his/her hands in their mouth?
Do you want your baby eating mineral oil?
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