Paraffin
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Mineral oil, Paraffin oil, Liquid paraffin
Synthetic
Fragrance
Skin Conditioner
Clean
Paraffin is a solid mixture of hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum characterized by relatively large crystals.
CAS #
8002-74-2, 64742-51-4
Form
Powder
State
Solid
Functions
Perfuming
Added for scent. Can be natural or synthetic. Common irritant and allergen — one of the top reasons people react to products.
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Viscosity Controlling
Locks in moisture
Traditional Use
Paraffin wax, derived from petroleum refining, has been used in cosmetics since the late 19th century as an occlusive moisturizer and texture agent. Developed as a synthetic replacement for natural waxes like beeswax.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Restricted By
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
100%
0%100%
Reg. Limit
FDA OTC limit: 100% (Skin Protectant). 50-100% standalone; 30-35% when combined with colloidal oatmeal Source: FDA OTC Monograph, 21 CFR 347.10.
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR