Mineral oil is a by-product of petroleum. It is a popular moisturizer in skin and hair products, baby oil and Vaseline being the most well known.
Mineral oil is not easily absorbed, instead it sits like a thin, plastic film on the epidermis. This blocks the pores by 40-60%, depriving the skin of vital oxygen. It may slow down the evaporation of water from the skin, it will also stop sweat from escaping as readily as it should. The result is black heads and blemishes. Mineral oil is contaminated with toxins and does not contain any nutrients to benefit the skin. Long term effects might be carcinogenic. However mineral oil is popular with skincare manufacturers because it rarely produces allergic reactions, is cheap to produce and has a long shelf life.
Vegetable and nut oils do go rancid especially if left open to the air. By adding a natural antioxidant – vitamin E, their oxidization can be postponed, if not prevented.
‘Green’ oils protect the skin without blocking pores. Each oil benefits the skin in its own wonderful way, almond oil is a cell re-generator, sesame seed oil is a great source of natural vitamin E, coconut oil is anti bacterial and anti fungal and the list goes on.
There are so many choices out there, be wise with what you use on your body. Remember, finally it’s all going to get absorbed into your blood stream and get filtered through your lungs, liver and kidneys.
Glow Naturally!
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