Questions and Answers on Mineral Oil in Cosmetic Products
BfR FAQ of 26 May 2015
Cosmetic products can contain mineral oils, waxes and white oils from refined and processed crude oils. The proportions of potentially carcinogenic hydrocarbons are reduced and/or eliminated through the processing of the crude oil.
The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has assessed whether the amount of aromatic hydrocarbons in cosmetic products which can conceivably be absorbed through the skin constitute a health hazard. Taking into account all scientific evidence available, health risks for the consumer are unlikely. The BfR answers some frequently asked questions in the following paragraphs.