Feed Your Skin - Oil for Moisturizing

Petroleum jelly and mineral oil are used extensively in personal care products around the world to protect the skin and prevent water loss. The use of petrochemicals is controversial and each person must make their own decision to use them or not. Here is why we don’t use them.

• The main reason we avoid petroleum-based ingredients is because we are doing our part to decrease dependence on the petroleum industry. It’s not sustainable or eco-friendly.
• Petroleum-based products are good at holding moisture in but they are so good at creating a barrier that they clog pores. We prefer to allow our skin to breathe.
• If not properly refined Petroleum could potentially be contaminated with PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), which may be carcinogenic, or cancer causing. White Petroleum is said to be properly refined and safe for use.
• Petroleum doesn’t offer any nutrients for our skin. If faced with the choice to use natural, nourishing ingredients derived from plants why would we choose Petroleum, a byproduct of crude oil that lends no nutritional value for our skin?

Some people swear by the occlusive nature of Petroleum as it truly locks in moisture. An alternative solution is to ensure sufficient water intake and hydrate from the inside out and then use natural oils to hold in moisture. In any case, the use of Petroleum is a personal choice and no one should be put down for his or her opinions.

If you want to avoid petrochemicals here is what to look for on labels: Petroleum, Petroleum Jelly, Liquid Paraffin, Paraffin Oil, Mineral Oil and White Petroleum.

For something that will nourish your skin and hold in moisture try olive oil, avocado oil, vitamin E, coconut oil and Shea butter. They are all-natural; contain essential fatty acids and vitamins to feed your skin.

Stay Healthy and Happy!