Specimen No. 0022
AvoidSyntheticemollient
Petrolatum / Mineral Oil
petrolatum · petroleum jelly · white petrolatum
Petroleum-derived occlusive agents. Safe when highly refined, but poorly refined grades may contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are carcinogenic.
medium confidence
Researched April 18, 2026Specimen 0022Petrolatum / Mineral Oil
Concerns
- EU restricts impure petrolatum — only cosmetic-grade (highly refined) permitted
- Contamination with carcinogenic PAHs in lower grades
- Occludes pores — may worsen acne-prone skin
- Petroleum-derived — environmental concern
Regulatory flags
- ⚑EU restricts — only permitted if full refining history documented and not carcinogenic
- ⚑Impure grades may contain PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons)
Commonly found in
Lip balmLotionBaby productsHair productsOintments
Sources & references
Last researched: April 18, 2026
Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.
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