As a massage therapist here in Brighton I spend a great deal of my time in close proximity to skin. Skincare is very important to me – I am continually learning about new products, what I love to use and what I will not put on my skin. In that last category is mineral oils, and I’ll tell you why.
Mineral oil is a common ingredient in many household products, found in lotions, soaps, cosmetics and engine oil. It is a clear, liquid oil with no scent and doesn’t go off. The word “mineral” makes this product sound like a nutrient, but in fact it is produced as a by-product of the distillation of petroleum from crude oil. Mineral oil is the leftover liquid, and because it is abundant, it is very inexpensive. In fact, it is more expensive to dispose of mineral oil, than to buy it. Have a look at some of the skin products in your bathroom cupboard – you’ll be surprised at how prevelant mineral oil is.
The skin is the largest organ in the body and the only protective barrier you have. The importance of your skin’s health is immeasurable.
The problem is that mineral oil is foreign to the human body and has many harmful effects:
- Mineral oil acts as a thin plastic layer on the skin.
- It is difficult to absorb and clogs the pores, which slows the skin’s ability to eliminate toxins.
- Once the oil is absorbed, it is broken down by the liver and passes through the intestinal tract. When the oil is present in the intestinal tract, it will absorb all of the fat-soluable vitamins found there. It is essentially stealing important vitamins from the body, which the body will not be able to replace. This can eventually lead to nutritional deficiencies.
- Studies have also shown forms of pneumonia caused by mineral oil decreasing lung function, known as lipoid pneumonia. Because of these dangers, the medical community has condemned the use of mineral oil taken orally or as an ingredient in medications.
In my massage studio I use 100% organic oils and balms from Balm Balm that won’t clog my your pores or leave you feeling greasy after your treatment. I work with my clients to find the product blends which work best on their skin and am insured to use some wonderful aromatherapy blends which can help calm, balance and uplift. What’s more they smell divine! Why not try a massage at Brighton Bodyworks and see for yourself?