Mineral Oil Health Risks
Mineral oil is an ingredient commonly found in items like baby oil, lipsticks, baby lotions, petroleum jelly and other cosmetic products. Not every ingredient found in these products is safe for extensive use; there are a number of health risks associated with mineral oil.
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Affects of Mineral Oil on the Skin
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According to TheStork.bidz when mineral oil is applied to the skin it prevents skin from breathing. Sweat, oil and toxins are not released from the skin and oxygen is prevented from entering the skin. Mineral oil can clog the pores of the skin leading to acne and other skin problems. It can prevent skin cells from developing normally and when used regularly mineral oil may cause skin to age prematurely.
Mineral Oil and Cancer
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There has been some evidence that mineral oil that is not refined properly can potentially cause cancer. This is particularly true if mineral oil is used frequently and applied thickly. The area most likely to be affected by the use of mineral oil and prone to cancer are the skin and the scrotum.
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Mineral Oil and Liver Function
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If mineral oil is absorbed into the skin because of habitual use it may affect the functioning of the liver. The liver has to work very hard to break down mineral oil and may not be able to break down toxins efficiently. This can lead to poorer health and weakened immune system.
Mineral Oil and the Digestive System
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HerbalLuxuries.com states that mineral oil can cause a number of digestive issues if ingested. Mineral oil will have a laxative effect when taken orally. Mineral oil will also have an effect on the absorption of fat soluble vitamins and minerals in the body. If fat soluble vitamins are not being absorbed there is the risk of developing severe vitamin deficiencies and poor health.
Mineral Oil and Pneumonia
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Mineral oil use can cause a serious problem when ingested, used in the nose or inhaled. If mineral oil enters the lungs it can cause lipid or oil pneumonia. There is no treatment for lipid pneumonia and there is not a very effective way of diagnosing this problem. Lipid pneumonia is not usually diagnosed until a victim dies and an autopsy is done.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of D. Sharon Pruitt
