Let's talk about the mineral oil in the ALL-IN-ONE Remover!
Let's talk about our ALL-IN-ONE Remover 300 mL - A must-try deep cleansing oil!✌️
We understand that mineral oils have a negative reputation in the U.S.; however, the perspective in Korea is quite different.
In Korea, mineral oils are classified into two grades based on their refining process:
1. Pharmaceutical/Cosmetic Grade: High-quality pharmaceutical-grade mineral oil is free from impurities and meets strict safety standards.
2. Industrial Grade
The mineral oil used in this product is of pharmaceutical/cosmetic grade, which is considered the safest option. This grade consists of high-purity oil that has been refined to remove harmful impurities.
To transform into Pharmaceutical/Cosmetic Grade Oil, it must go through a rigorous purifying process that eliminates all toxins and impurities. By the end of this process, CGMOs no longer resemble petroleum.
In the Korean beauty industry, there is an ongoing discussion regarding the initial negative perception of mineral oil. This perception has largely been shaped by fear-based marketing campaigns from companies promoting natural ingredients. Many articles in Korea underscore the safety of mineral oil and emphasize the importance of educating consumers about its benefits. Mineral oil is more stable on the shelf and tends to cause fewer allergic reactions compared to natural oils.
There has also been misinformation that mineral oil is so harmful it has been banned in Europe. This information is incorrect, as clarified by the European Commission. A quick Google search will provide more details on this topic.
There are several grounds for proving the safety of mineral oil. According to Cosmetic Transparent data, European manufacturers use only high-purity, high-quality mineral oils in cosmetics, adhering to the European Community Cosmetics Regulation. The quality standards for these oils align with those specified in the EU Pharmacopoeia (EU-Arzneibuch), which ensures that the mineral oils used in cosmetics meet pharmaceutical quality.
Research from the Ministerium für Umwelt (Ministry of the Environment) also confirms the safety of mineral oil. Recently, the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (Bundesinstitut für Risikobewertung) concluded, through extensive testing, that cosmetics containing mineral oil do not pose a risk to consumers' skin health and are safe to use.
Numerous studies have consistently demonstrated that mineral oil is safe. For instance, research on carcinogenicity conducted by the European Chemical Agency (ECHA) has affirmed that the mineral oil used in cosmetics is not a carcinogen. Additionally, a study conducted by the Canadian Ministry of Environment and Health in March 2015 also demonstrated the safety of mineral oil. The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment has reiterated its findings, confirming that cosmetics containing mineral oil are safe for consumer use.
It’s important to understand that mineral oil also does not clog pores and is not simply a cheap ingredient from petroleum residue. It is safe for acne, including fungal acne. The key factor is the formulation; however, we do not recommend balms or ointments containing mineral oil for those with acne-prone skin. This recommendation is not due to the mineral oil itself, but because these types of formulations tend to create a seal on the skin. If someone experiences more breakouts while using mineral oil, it is likely because the formulation is too thick, not because of the mineral oil itself.
We are currently experimenting with various ingredients for future product formulations. While we love our product as it is, it can be challenging to market it due to the misinformation surrounding mineral oil. We wanted to create this post to help educate our clients. This product is already excellent for use! The goal of this post is to help our customers better understand the product, especially since we’ve noticed misinformation circulating about its ingredients.
We always conduct thorough research before introducing any product.
This remover is unique compared to our other products, as it is the only true oil type we carry. Oil-based removers are suitable for many clients because they gently dissolve and remove built-up residue and makeup. Additionally, they smooth, calm, and nourish the skin without clogging pores. This product also enhances the effectiveness of your regular cleanser and other skincare products.
****We only use pharmaceutical-grade mineral oil because it acts as a lightweight protector for the skin, preventing dehydration without being too heavy or clogging pores, which can lead to acne. Mineral oil is classified as an occlusive ingredient because it forms a protective seal on the skin’s surface, locking in moisture and preventing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), while also keeping pollutants from penetrating the skin. This is especially beneficial for those with dry skin, as these properties help maintain moisture and hydration.
Another important characteristic of mineral oil that makes it an excellent choice for skin moisturization is its adequate substantivity. This means it remains on the skin long enough to keep it hydrated without being overwhelming in terms of sensory feel. The balance between substantivity (the degree to which a substance stays on the skin) and occlusivity is what makes mineral oil a preferred choice over other cosmetic emollients.
In Korea, the mineral oil used in the ALL-IN-ONE Remover is rated as EWG grade 1–2, indicating that it is a stable and safe ingredient.
- Safe (low risk): EWG grades 0–2
- Moderate (medium risk): EWG grades 3–6
- Dangerous (high risk): EWG grades 7–10
References:
Nash JF, Gettings SD, Diembeck W, Chudowski M, Kraus AL. A toxicological review of topical exposure to white mineral oils. Food and Chemical Toxicology. 1996;34(2):213–225. Petry T, Bury D, Fautz R, et al. Review of data on the dermal penetration of mineral oil and waxes used in cosmetic applications. Toxicol Lett 2017;280:70-78. Rawlings AV, Lombard KJ. A review on the extensive skin benefits of mineral oil. J Cosmet Sci 2012;34(6):511-518. Patzelt A, Lademann J, Richter H, et al. In vivo investigations on the penetration of various oils and their influence on the skin barrier. Skin Research and Technology. 2012;18(3):364–369. DiNardo JC. Is mineral oil comedogenic? Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2005;4(1):2–3. Tsutsumi, H., Utsugi, T. and Hayashi, S. Study on the occlusivity of oil films. J. Soc. Cosmet. Chem. 30, 345– 356 (1979). Osborne, G.E. and Gerraughty, R.J. Protective barriers for the skin. J. Soc. Cosmet. Chem. 12, 271– 279 (1961). Morrison, D.S. Petrolatum. In: Dry Skin & Moisturizers: Chemistry and Function ( M. Loden and H.I. Maibach, eds), pp. 251– 267. CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL (2000). Brown, E.B., Diembeck, W., Hoppe, U. and Elias, P.M. Fate of topical hydrocarbons in the skin. J. Soc. Cosmet. Chem. 46, 1– 9 (1995). Ceilley RI. Advances in topical delivery systems in acne: new solutions to address concentration dependent irritation and dryness. Skinmed 2011;9(1):15-21 Ro BI, Dawson TL. The role of sebaceous gland activity and scalp microfloral metabolism in the etiology of seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. J Investig Dermatol Symp Proc. 2005;10(3):194-197.