Paraffinum perliquidum

Paraffinum perliquidum is a non-fluorescent, odourless, colourless and tasteless oily liquid. Paraffinum perliquidum is insoluble in water and ethanol, but soluble in organic solvents like ether, chloroform. Paraffinum perliquidum is obtained from residues of petroleum distillation.

Liquid paraffins are also known as "paraffin oils". In cosmetic products paraffin oils have film-forming, water-repellent properties. They support the formation of gloss on the skin (e.g. in lipsticks). Furthermore, they also serve as consistency regulators in creams and ointments; they protect the skin against moisture loss. The paraffin oils used in medicine and cosmetics are highly purified, very well tolerated and do not cause skin irritations. In comparative evaluations with vegetable oils for dry and irritated skin, their clinical efficiency is estimated to be similar to that of vegetable oils (e.g. olive oil, coconut oil).

1. Agero AL et al(2004) A randomized double-blind controlled trial comparing extra virgin coconut oil with mineral oil as a moisturizer for mild to moderate xerosis. Dermatitis 15:109-116
2. Carpenter P et al (2011) Olive versus mineral oil. Community Practice 84:40-42.
3. Mackerer CR et al (2004) Petroleum mineral oil refining and evaluation of cancer hazard. Appl Occupy Environ Hyg 18:890-901.
4. Mukherjee S et al.(2015) A comparison between interactions of triglyceride oil and mineral oil with proteins and their ability to reduce cleanser surfactant-induced irritation.