Should You Use Baby Oil On Your Face? (Plus, 6 Alternative Products To Try)
It's not just for babies.
Can you put baby oil on your face? It makes sense to use baby oil on our faces when removing makeup. Because if it's called baby oil, it's pretty safe, right? And surely gentle, too? Well, while not categorically unsafe, it may not be the best option for your skincare routine.
"Whether to use baby oil on your face depends on whether you are comfortable using products derived from petroleum and how prone to acne you are,” advises Dr. Sonia Batra, co-host of The Doctors.
But exactly what is baby oil? Well, it's primarily comprised of mineral oil.
“Mineral oil is a by-product of petroleum and is created when petroleum is distilled to create gasoline. Although refined mineral oil used in cosmetic products is considered non-toxic, industrial-grade mineral oil is controversial due to claims about carcinogenicity,” says Dr. Batra.
There are plenty of baby oil uses, but mineral oil is used as an ingredient in a variety of cosmetic products because of its occlusive properties, which means it forms a seal on the skin to trap moisture.
That means using this product comes with risks. According to Dr. Batra, “The large molecule size prevents mineral oil from penetrating the skin. While it is considered to have a low potential to directly clog pores, because it is heavy and difficult to remove, over time, it could form a layer that prevents natural cell turnover and thereby causes breakouts.”
Many brands of baby oil contain fragrances that could be irritating. But since oil-based cleansers help remove makeup and dirt from the face, baby oil could be used as the first step of a double cleanse or oil cleansing method.
“While I don’t think there is anything dangerous about the use of baby oil on the face, there are better options in terms of well-formulated skin care products on the market,” Dr. Batra warns. That means you can always opt for alternatives.
If you do want to use an oil on your face, there are lots of options. You might want to look for coconut oil, shea butter or olive oil. But to get you started, here are a few products to choose from.
1. Spectrum Unrefined Coconut Oil
Virgin coconut oil is totally safe to use on your face and body and can also be used for cooking. But this is unrefined organic coconut oil, has no fragrances or preservatives, and is great for skin or hair. It restores skin and hair integrity, and provides a protective layer to combat the damaging effects of sun, wind and cold weather.
(Amazon)
2. Avene XeraCalm Cleansing Oil
This cleansing oil restores the skin's barriers, seals in moisture, and is perfect for the bath or shower. It's made using Avène Thermal Spring Water that calms itching sensations and irritation while helping to support the skin's defense system.
"For an oil-based cleanser that is from plant-derived rather than mineral oil, I usually recommend Avene XeraCalm Cleansing Oil. However, even though it is labeled as noncomedogenic, I tell my acne-prone or oily patients to use caution," says Dr. Batra.
(Amazon)
3. CannaSmack Luxe Hemp Infuser Oil
CannaSmack’s Luxe Hemp Infuser Oil is a raw, uncooked Hemp Seed Oil that can be used alone or added to any moisturizer. It also contains honey, Argan Oil, Rosehip Oil, and Orange Oil to keep your skin glowing.
(Amazon)
4. Amalia Skincare Milk
This featherweight serum contains a high dose of Niacinamide (vitamin B3) to refine the appearance of fine lines and enlarged pores while visibly enlivening dull skin. Amalia’s Milk will not clog your pores or cause acne. Instead, it fully absorbs into your skin, leaving it healthy and well hydrated.
(Amazon)
5. Osmosis Skincare Nourish Organic Facial Oil
Wonder-working, frequency-enhanced organic avocado boosts skin plumpness and improves the elastic feel to restore a youthful glow. The harmonious benefits from rich nutrients and cold-pressed, organic avocado oil hydrates and rebalances deep into the dermal layer of the skin to protect from moisture loss and environmental aggressors.
(Dermstore, $54)
6. Elina Organics Skin Renewing Oil Blend
This organic oil is specifically beneficial for dry, sensitive and aging complexions. One of the key ingredients in the product is Sea Buckthorn Oil, which is loaded with antioxidants, including Vitamin C and E. Using this powerhouse fruit daily helps to slow down the signs of aging by nourishing the tissues in your skin and body, hydrating your complexion and preventing wrinkles.
(Elina Organics Skincare, $55)
Aly Walansky is a NY-based lifestyles writer. Her work appears in dozens of digital and print publications regularly. Visit her on Twitter or email her at alywalansky@gmail.com.
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