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Moumoujus

MINK OIL.

Valuable CAS 8023-74-3 / HAIR CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING

Mink oil is a highly emollient animal-derived lipid prized for its ability to integrate with the skin's natural barrier. Rich in palmitoleic acid and Vitamin E, it effectively restores moisture, acts as an occlusive agent to prevent water loss, and offers protective benefits.

Summary

Skin conditioning Hair conditioning Emollient Occlusive Antioxidant

Science

Mechanism of Action

Mink oil is readily absorbed by the skin, functioning primarily as an occlusive agent to minimize transepidermal water loss by forming a protective surface barrier. Its chemical profile, particularly its high content of palmitoleic acid (Omega 7 fatty acid), closely resembles human sebum, facilitating its seamless integration into the skin barrier. This structural similarity enhances the skin's ability to retain moisture, providing deep nourishment, softening, and protection against dehydration. Palmitoleic acid also contributes to cellular regeneration, supports wound healing processes, and can elevate triglyceride concentration within the lipid barrier, thereby strengthening the stratum corneum. Furthermore, it delivers antioxidant benefits through its Vitamin E content.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

No data indicates that Mink Oil is commonly 'dusted' or associated with ingredient transparency issues in cosmetic formulations.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Mink oil demonstrates superior oxidative stability, providing enhanced resistance to rancidity compared to many other animal or vegetable oils.

Conflicts

  • Prescription topicals such as retinoids or benzoyl peroxide, due to the potential for increased irritation or reduced active ingredient efficacy through occlusive trapping.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
0.1%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel affirmed Mink Oil as safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products in 2005 and reaffirmed this in 2022. While recent reported maximum concentrations are around 0.1%, historical uses included up to 3% in general products, 2% in self-tanning formulations, and 0.2% in hair products. Manufacturers are responsible for product safety under U.S. law, with FDA participation in the CIR Panel. It is advised that total PCB/pesticide contamination should not exceed 40 ppm, with individual residues below 10 ppm.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
No Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Medium

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Mink oil is a valuable emollient, particularly for dry and sensitive skin, due to its sebum-mimicking composition and barrier-supporting properties, despite its medium comedogenicity rating.

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