Do you recognize the feeling that you always feel like you need to moisturize your skin after taking a shower? Or do you have a shiny T-zone in your face? This may have to do with mineral oils, a common ingredient in cosmetics.

Mineral oils (also called paraffin, petroleum jelly) are a waste product from the oil industry and often the basis for a (non- or semi-natural) skin cream. Unfortunately, because mineral oils seal your skin with a waterproof layer, your skin can no longer absorb or excrete anything – two of the most important functions of your skin.

The result of using lubricating mineral oils is that your skin gets out of its natural balance. It becomes drier or more oily than it naturally is, causing your skin to age faster or get more blockages. But the most important drawback is that your skin becomes addicted to its use. You notice this when you stop, for example, after a shower, before applying your cream. Tight, dry, skins or pimples can then develop, which makes you want to lubricate again soon. This is already a well-known phenomenon among users of lip balm.

But, once you know what you’re putting on, how do you get rid of that addiction? We recommend a skin detox. Read more about this in our next blog.