Mineral Oil

Mineral oil is a generic term for petroleum-derived oils. It is used in a variety of industries, including industrial applications such as machine lubricants, plastics, and rubber, as well as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. In cosmetics, it is used in skin care products, make- up products and hair care products for its ability to protect the skin from dehydration, maintain moisture, spread smoothly and evenly. On the ingredient label, it is listed variously as mineral oil, paraffinum liquidum, petrolatum, petroleum jelly, and paraffin.

There is a concern that mineral oil may contain impurities such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are carcinogenic. Mineral oil is available in a variety of grades which are used for different applications. Cosmetic and pharmaceutical grades are highly refined to minimize the level of PAHs in current technology and are recognized as safe by scientific agencies of the regulatory authorities in countries and regions where we operate. We use mineral oil only after confirming the quality is appropriate for our products.

Kao complies with the laws and regulations of all countries and regions in which we operate. Additionally, we conduct rigorous safety assessments and perform a wide range of product-use tests based on the Kao Safety Standards^* , so that you can use our products safely. We continuously explore new scientific findings relevant to the ingredients we use and review the safety of our in-market products. We are committed to continuing to develop our products for a better customer experience and increased product safety.