A good lipstick, especially lip balms, should have the ability to moisturize and protect the lips from drying and cracking. To choose the right lipstick, you need to understand the ingredients contained in it.
Mineral oil is one of the main ingredients in many lipsticks, but there is ongoing debate about whether or not to use lipsticks that contain mineral oil. Let’s explore this issue together!
Should you use lipsticks containing Mineral Oil?
What types of oils are commonly found in lipsticks?
Mineral oil from petroleum
Currently, most lipsticks (especially lip balms) on the market contain petroleum oil because it is extremely inexpensive.
The petroleum oil in lipsticks is usually found in common forms such as: Petrolatum, mineral oil, liquid paraffin, white oil, vaseline, petroleum jelly,… Thus, if you see any of these substances listed in the ingredient list, then that lipstick contains petroleum oil!
Check the ingredient list to see if the lipstick contains Mineral Oil.
Naturally derived oils
There are many lipstick lines, especially lip balms, that include oils extracted from natural ingredients. These products contain vitamins from fruits, natural essential oils from avocado, beeswax, coconut, almond,…
Natural ingredient lip balms are not only very safe for health but also have the ability to maintain good moisture, increase elasticity, and provide antioxidant properties to the skin cells of the lips.
Many lipsticks contain natural ingredients.
Should you use lipsticks containing mineral oil?
Lipsticks that contain mineral oil can raise several health concerns for users, so you should limit their use.
Firstly, mineral oil and refined products derived from it can be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) if not processed correctly. This is one of the substances that can cause cancer.
Secondly, humans can accumulate some paraffin as the body cannot excrete it through metabolism. This is also a substance that can cause cancer in humans.
Lastly, mineral oil can cause the most noticeable damage by darkening the lips if used for a long enough period.
Mineral oil poses many health risks.
How to choose a good lip balm
First, you should limit the use of lip balms that contain mineral oil or petroleum ingredients. Additionally, there are many alternatives to lipsticks containing mineral oil, the most notable being to look for lip balms made from natural ingredients.
For example, Shea butter is a wonderful ingredient that helps enhance moisturizing properties and softens the lips. Moreover, it contains substances that help increase the elasticity and rejuvenate your lips.
Furthermore, coconut oil, olive oil, sunflower oil, cocoa butter, almond oil… are also natural ingredients that provide safe moisturizing solutions for the lips.
Finally, you should trust reputable natural cosmetic brands that have certifications regarding safety or legal documents proving that their products do not contain mineral oil.
