Barrier & Lipid ·
Paraffinum Liquidum
What is it?
Paraffinum Liquidum (liquid paraffin/mineral oil) is a highly refined petroleum-derived emollient used in skincare for its occlusive, moisture-sealing properties; it is closely related to petrolatum (a semisolid mineral-oil derivative) which is more often directly studied in the literature.
What does it do?
Commonly used as an occlusive emollient to reduce transepidermal water loss. Clinical studies of petrolatum (the closely related semisolid mineral-oil derivative) show real, measurable skin barrier and hydration effects, and it remains a benchmark comparator in dermatology research for occlusive moisturizers — evidence specific to the liquid form (paraffinum liquidum) itself is more limited.
Real products containing this
Sources
This page provides general skincare information and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Ingredient interactions and evidence summaries reflect published, cited sources — not a personal assessment of your skin. For medical skin conditions, rashes, pregnancy/lactation questions or persistent concerns, please consult a licensed dermatologist or HPCSA-registered practitioner.