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Moumoujus

PETROLEUM DISTILLATES.

Valuable CAS 8002-05-9 / ANTIFOAMING, SOLVENT

Petroleum Distillates function as a versatile cosmetic ingredient, acting primarily as a solvent and an occlusive agent. This compound creates a water-repellent barrier on the skin, effectively minimizing moisture loss and improving product consistency.

Summary

solvent film-forming hydrophobing consistency enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

Petroleum Distillates serve as an efficient solvent, facilitating the dissolution of various substances within cosmetic formulations. On the skin, they form an occlusive, film-forming barrier that is water-repellent (hydrophobing), which significantly reduces transepidermal water loss and enhances skin hydration. Additionally, studies suggest that highly refined petroleum derivatives may penetrate the stratum corneum, potentially aiding the absorption of other cosmetic ingredients.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 29.2–55%
Optimal

55%

Key findings

  1. 01 Cosmetic formulations containing 29.2% to 55% Petroleum Distillates were clinically determined to be non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-photosensitizing to human skin.
  2. 02 A subchronic test on a formulation with 41.75% Petroleum Distillates revealed no adverse effects on human skin.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Conflicts

  • OXIDIZING AGENTS (such as NITROGEN TETROXIDE, PERCHLORATES, PEROXIDES, PERMANGANATES, CHLORATES, NITRATES, CHLORINE, BROMINE, and FLUORINE)
  • NITRIC ACID

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
55%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel affirmed Petroleum Distillates as safe for cosmetic use, with formulations up to 55% proving non-irritating and non-sensitizing. However, undiluted exposure may cause moderate skin and mild, transient eye irritation. The FDA lists light petroleum hydrocarbons as multipurpose direct food additives and petroleum jelly as an approved over-the-counter (OTC) skin protectant. It is notable that 'Petroleum' is listed in Annex II of the Cosmetics Directive, meaning it must not be part of the composition of cosmetics and personal care products in the European Union.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Petroleum Distillates are a valuable occlusive agent and solvent for formulated products, particularly beneficial for dry and sensitive skin due to their moisture-trapping properties, though regulatory status varies globally with restrictions in the European Union.

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