What Is Paraffin Oil? Uses, Properties and Grades

What is paraffin oil?

To answer what is paraffin oil: paraffin oil and solid paraffin are two different materials. Paraffin oil is usually clear and colourless (sometimes slightly yellow) and is known as mineral oil. It is obtained by distilling and refining crude oil and is colourless and odourless. Paraffin oil is divided into light and heavy grades, with light mineral oil having the lower viscosity. It does not dissolve in water and is chemically stable. In general, paraffin is a petroleum product supplied on the market in both liquid and solid forms.

Uses of paraffin oil

Paraffin oil is a hydrocarbon produced from crude oil. It is used as a lubricant to reduce friction on moving surfaces and, thanks to its water resistance, heat stability and other properties, it is used in many industries.

For example, in textiles it is used as machine oil and fibre softener, in plastics and rubber as a plasticiser, and in the food industry its food grade is used to lubricate machinery and as a mould release agent. In pharmaceuticals it is used as a skin-protecting ingredient in creams and lotions. It is also useful as a surface polish, a skin softener and an ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products.

Types of paraffin oil

Industrial paraffin oil is used for industrial purposes, usually as a lubricant, insulator and protective agent.

Medical (pharmaceutical) paraffin oil is used in the medical and personal care industries, in creams, lotions and ointments and for skin protection.

Food-grade paraffin oil is produced by very deep refining and is used in the food industry to lubricate machinery, as a release agent for bread and pastry moulds and as a glazing coating for some foods.

Each type of paraffin oil should only be used for its intended purpose and according to the relevant instructions. For medical or cosmetic use, choose products with valid certification.

Properties of paraffin oil

Paraffin oil comes in food, cosmetic and industrial grades, and each has its own uses. Mehr Gostar cosmetic paraffin oil is suitable for both general and commercial use.

Benefits of paraffin oil for the skin

Cosmetic paraffin oil is one of the most common ingredients in skincare products. Its proven benefits come mainly from its ability to form a protective layer:

1. Make-up remover: paraffin oil dissolves make-up and oily dirt well, which is why it is used in many make-up removers.
2. Skin softener: by filling the gaps between surface skin cells, it makes the skin look softer and smoother. Note that paraffin oil does not protect against the sun and is not a substitute for sunscreen.
3. Reduces the look of dryness lines: by keeping the skin moist, fine lines caused by dryness are less visible; but paraffin oil does not remove wrinkles.
4. Moisturiser: by forming a thin layer on the skin, paraffin oil helps keep it hydrated and prevents water from evaporating.
5. Suitable for sensitive skin: pure cosmetic paraffin oil is not an allergen, which is why it is used in baby products and products for sensitive skin.

Because of these properties, paraffin oil is popular in skincare and in paraffin therapy.

For eczema

Eczema is a skin condition with swelling, redness, itching and dryness. Paraffin oil can work as a moisturiser for people with eczema: by forming a thin layer on the skin it prevents moisture loss and helps relieve dryness and itching, and less dryness also means less irritation. Before using it to manage eczema, however, it is best to consult a doctor or dermatologist.

For hair

Paraffin oil can make hair look softer and shinier for a while, but it does not nourish or repair the hair. It only coats the surface, weighs hair down and washes out at the first shampoo. Used heavily on the scalp, it can make hair look greasy and leave a build-up. If you use it, apply a very small amount to the lengths and ends rather than the scalp.

Paraffin oil grades and standards

Paraffin oil is also divided by viscosity into light (light liquid paraffin) and heavy (heavy liquid paraffin) grades. Viscosity is measured according to ASTM D445 and whiteness by Saybolt colour (ASTM D156).

Safety warnings for paraffin oil

• Keep paraffin oil out of the reach of children. Accidental swallowing and inhalation into the lungs can cause aspiration pneumonia.
• Oral use as a laxative should only be on a doctor’s prescription and for a short time, because long-term use reduces the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
• For skin use, choose only cosmetic or pharmaceutical grade, never industrial paraffin oil.

Conclusion

Paraffin oil, especially from a reliable producer such as Mehr Gostar, can be an effective option for skin and hair care. Mehr Gostar supplies high-quality paraffin oil as well as a range of paraffins, including crystalline paraffin, liquid paraffin and paraffin jelly.

Frequently asked questions

What is paraffin oil?

Paraffin oil, or liquid paraffin, is a refined mineral oil produced from the oil fractions of crude oil; it is clear, colourless, odourless and tasteless.

What is paraffin oil used for?

In cosmetics and personal care, pharmaceuticals, the food industry (food grade), textiles, plastics and rubber, polishes and light lubrication.

Is paraffin oil good for the skin?

Yes. Cosmetic paraffin oil forms a protective layer that prevents moisture loss and helps reduce dryness, but it does not remove wrinkles and does not protect against the sun.

Is paraffin oil good for hair?

It can make hair look softer and shinier for a while, but it does not nourish or repair hair, and its effect washes out.

What is the difference between industrial and cosmetic paraffin oil?

Cosmetic and pharmaceutical paraffin oil is much more deeply refined and meets standards such as the pharmacopoeias; industrial oil is not suitable for skin or food use.

Related articles and products

• Buy industrial and food grade liquid paraffin
• What is cosmetic liquid paraffin?
• What is paraffin?
• What is isoparaffin?