The Problem with Paraffin - Obvs Skincare

The Problem with Paraffin

Did you know that one of the most common ingredients in emollients and creams for dry skin is paraffin which can actually be the cause of most skin conditions?

Also known as liquid paraffin, petroleum and mineral oil, paraffin is used in a lot of emollients that are recommended or even prescribed for skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema.

It is used as it is very cheap to produce and provides an oily “protective” layer on the skin that claims to lock in moisture.

Some reasons why we should stop using paraffin -

Paraffin is neither sustainable nor environmentally friendly as it is a by-product of the petrochemical industry.

Paraffin stinks and isn’t nice to use so manufacturers add preservatives, perfumes, and fragrance-masking chemicals to paraffin to make it usable, but these can also irritate sensitive skin

It creates a waterproof layer over the skin, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts in those with oily skin or skin that is prone to acne. The barrier doesn’t allow skin to breathe, so the skin can’t shed waste products as it would naturally do. This barrier also can increase the risk of bacterial and fungal infection by locking in dirt. Creating such a barrier over a long period of time can reduce the skin’s ability to function normally.

And lastly, paraffin ignites easily! There have been deaths linked to when it has been used as an emollient and then absorbed into clothing!

Check the ingredients label of your emollient cream before you use it. Can you see paraffin, as liquid paraffin, petroleum or mineral oil listed as an ingredient?

Paraffin and related chemicals are not used in ANY Obvs Skincare product – ever!

Swap your paraffin filled creams with the Intensive Skin Recovery Cream, The Naked Organic Moisturiser or The Organic Balm for Eczema/Acne prone skin.

obvs-skincare.co.uk

#eczematreatment #emollientsforeczema #creamforeczema #acnetreatment #naturaltreatmentforeczema #acnecream #eczemacream #dryskintreatment

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