Mineral oil wax (petroleum jelly) in cosmetics

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If you regularly use cosmetics, do you know and care about the mineral oil wax, also known as petroleum jelly, in cosmetics? What is its use, does it cause any side effects?

Mineral oil wax (English name is petroleum jelly), known as a compound of wax and mineral oil (of petroleum origin), is a semi-solid compound similar to jelly, with the main use being Heal burns and moisturize.

1. Uses and benefits of mineral oil wax

With the main ingredient being petroleum, mineral oil wax has the following uses and benefits:
Treatment of minor burns and minor scratches: Mineral oil wax can help heal frequent skin wounds such as minor scratches, or minor burns to the skin. In addition, mineral oil wax is also used to apply to the skin after surgery. Before applying mineral oil, it is necessary to clean and disinfect the skin to be applied to avoid bacteria accumulation. Moisturizing: With moisturizing effects, mineral oil wax is a great moisturizer for the whole body as well as for each skin area on the body such as face, nose, lips, hands, heels. Products made from mineral oil wax are very useful when used in the cold dry season or when suffering from allergies. With dry heels or hands, before applying mineral oil wax, you should soak your hands and feet with warm salt water, then wipe clean, apply balm and wear gloves or clean socks for effective moisturizing. than. Prevention of diaper rash in babies : Mineral oil wax products have been researched and proven to prevent diaper rash in babies by creating a barrier and protecting the skin from frequent wetness caused by diapers. Before applying mineral oil wax cream should clean and dry the skin to be applied. Remove eye makeup, crow's feet: For people who often wear makeup, mineral oil wax is very safe to remove eye makeup. To use, you can use a cotton swab to gently roll the skin over your eyes (remember to close your eyes when applying wax). You can also apply it on the corner of your eyes to remove makeup on crow's feet. Reduce split ends: Applying a small amount of mineral oil wax to hair that is dry due to frequent sun exposure or swimming can help reduce split ends and create shine in the hair. Use with hair dye, nail polish, perfume: Applying a layer of mineral oil wax to the skin when preparing to dye hair or nail polish can prevent staining when the dye or paint gets on the skin. With perfume, applying mineral oil wax as a base helps the fragrance to stay on the skin longer.

2. Some possible side effects when using cosmetics containing mineral oil wax

Although mineral oil waxes have many uses and benefits, they should only be used externally, not in the mouth nor used as a lubricant in the genitals because they can increase the risk of infection caused by bacterial invasion.
Depending on the product and the type of mineral oil wax, the use may cause some potential side effects such as:
Allergies : People with sensitive skin may be more susceptible to allergic reactions to mineral oil waxes or other ingredients. products derived from petroleum. Infection: It is necessary to clean and disinfect the skin before applying mineral oil wax to avoid the accumulation of bacteria and fungi. If the bottle or jar containing mineral oil wax is contaminated with fungus, it can also spread bacteria when we apply it to open wounds. Clogged Pores: Using mineral oil waxes can clog pores and cause breakouts. Therefore, to avoid the risk of acne, it is necessary to clean the skin before applying mineral oil wax. Pneumonia : If mineral oil wax is applied to the face, especially near the nose, care should be taken because inhaling mineral oil wax can increase the risk of pneumonia, especially in children.

3. What is the difference between mineral oil wax and Vaseline?

Basically, Vaseline is a brand of mineral oil wax products, owned by Unilever. In theory, there should be no difference between mineral oil wax and the brand name of that product.
However, Unilever claims that, in all product lines bearing the brand name Vaseline, they are manufactured using selected and high-quality ingredients, with a special manufacturing process. If there is a difference between the product lines from mineral oil wax, it may be the smoothness and fragrance.
In general, the products of Unilever's Vaseline brand are guaranteed to be safe and are 100% made from mineral oil wax. To be sure to choose the right product for your needs, you should carefully read the ingredient information printed on the product label.

4. Things to keep in mind when using cosmetics containing mineral oil wax

Mineral oil wax is the main ingredient widely used in the medical and cosmetic industries for its moisturizing, softening and healing properties but is still safe.
To ensure safety, it is best to choose products with ingredients that are pure mineral oil wax, distilled 3 times (eg Vaseline) to not harm the skin when used, because some ingredients in it pure mineral oil wax has the potential to increase the risk of cancer).
In addition, when using mineral oil wax or any cosmetic chemical, it is necessary to monitor for any abnormalities that may appear on the skin during the first use, such as allergies or rashes.
Finally, choose products of plant origin instead of mineral oil wax if you are concerned and concerned that the exploitation and production of petroleum-based cosmetics may cause negative impacts on the environment. .
Mineral oil wax is used a lot in the medical and beauty industry because it has the uses of keeping and moisturizing, healing scratched skin, minor burns,...

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Reference source: healthline.com