Is Mineral Oil really safe for you?

Mineral oil, a by-product of petroleum and an odorless, colorless substance, has become a much used ingredient of engine oils, wood preservative, facial creams, pesticides, hair care products, cosmetics and baby oil. Mineral oil is believed to relieve constipation, however recent studies show that constant use or exposure can prove detrimental.

Pregnant women who use mineral oil (orally) often can induce hypoprothrombinemia and hemorrhagic disease, which can lead to excessive bleeding in their new born babies. While, inhaling mineral oil by pregnant women can cause testicular cancer in the foetus.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported about a patient who had mineral oil injected into his lungs, leading to loss of vision, headaches, convulsions and brief coma.

Studies have shown that low quality or poorly refined mineral oil can lead to the development of skin and scrotal cancers after heavy exposure. Mineral oil has been classified as a carcinogen and tumorigenic by the U.S. Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical

Mineral oil is often used to treat constipation and its side-effects are associated with the gastrointestinal tract. Continual use of mineral oil can cause the oil to enter the anal sphincter and the pruritus ani or affect the skin outside the rectum. It can also slow down healing of postoperative wounds in the anorectal region and disrupt normal defecatory

Those working in the petroleum industry are exposed to mineral oil mist in the air, which can induce coughing, wheezing, respiratory tract irritations, shortness of breath or tachypnea. Mineral oil is considered to even cause lipid pneumonitis. The oil may even move to the lower lobes of the lungs leading to cyst formations and fibrosis.

Mineral oil users can develop vitamin deficiencies. The oil covers the mucosa of the small intestine and decreases absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K. Lack of vitamin K can inhibit the ability of blood thinners to function properly, which may result in PT/INR levels in the blood to go beyond safe ranges.

Avoid using baby products with mineral oil as it can cause your child’s skin to become dry and irritated. Maybe it is time to switch to healthier and natural alternatives to mineral oil.

Replacing mineral oil with natural oils that are derived from foods is a safe alternative. Natural oils that can acts as great substitutes for mineral oil in hair and skin products include olive oil, almond oil, apricot kernel oil, rose hip seed oil, wheat germ oil, sunflower oil, jojoba oil, grape seed oil and coconut oil.

The makers often forget their responsibility of manufacturing products that are not detrimental to their clients’ health. However customers should never forget to read the ingredients label before making a purchase.

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