Straight off the bat: it’s a don’t. Mineral and petroleum products come from the distillation of crude oil (which winds up in your heat tank and gas tank). It is used frequently in many inexpensive products because it is cheaper than plant based oil and its clear and odorless. It is commonly found in moisturizers for the protective residue it leaves behind on the skin, keeping toxins out and moisture in.
The downside is that mineral oil can very easily clog pores and lead to breakouts. In many cases, it causes allergic reaction, psoriasis, or acne. Your skin is like a sponge. Over time, the mineral oil residue will be absorbed into your body. The Cosmetic Safety Database states that mineral oil is associated with cancer, allergies, organ toxicity, immunotoxcity, and skin irritation, among other things. Many people stopped taking mineral oil orally because of the associated risks. Remember, what goes on your skin will still get into your body.
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