Vaseline oil (liquid paraffin) is a mineral oil obtained during the processing of oil, which does not contain harmful organic substances and their compounds.
It is a colorless liquid, used to soften ointments and promotes an increase in spreadability, which allows the active components to penetrate better through the epidermis. Can be mixed with any oils and fats, except castor.
Areas of use
- When making cosmetics. Often is part of creams, ointments, hair care products, because it forms a film that promotes occlusion and moisture retention in the skin.
- In medicine. For oral administration, as a laxative, as well as in some ointments.
- In the industry it is used in the production of packaging materials from plastic, as a plasticizer. And also - as a lubricant for kitchen utensils, and as a preservative for the preservation of vegetables and fruits (they cover the surface of fruit).
- In the chemical industry.
Methods of application and dosage
For oral administration, Vaseline oil is prescribed for prolonged or chronic constipation. Take it 1-2 tablespoons, twice a day. Since the mineral oil is not digested by the body, it simply serves as a kind of lubricant, and can be excreted from the body for some time after stopping the drug. In addition, in medicine, Vaseline oil is used externally, when it is necessary to lubricate the skin before carrying out the procedures (installation of cans, rectal temperature measurement, enema).
Before taking the bottle it is recommended to shake, and when buying, pay attention to the quality of the oil being purchased. The more transparent it is, the purer it is, and the poorly purified product is capable of causing allergic reactions and irritations.
Contraindications
Vaseline oil is contraindicated for internal use in acute and inflammatory diseases of the digestive tract (ulcerative colitis, peptic ulcer of stomach and duodenum, appendicitis), with hemorrhoids, pregnancy, poisoning with phosphorus. Also, the drug is contraindicated for children and in case of individual intolerance. It is not recommended to be used together with some anthelmintic medicines (medamin, vermox, avermol, natamol).
Cosmetic application
Since vaseline oil is a good emollient, and oil-soluble fragrances and flavors are ideally dissolved in it, it is widely used in the manufacture of wax and decorative cosmetics: lip glosses, lipsticks, creams, mascara, decorative pencils, protective creams and tanning agents, paraffin masks, massage oils, theatrical makeup, and the like.
In its pure form, Vaseline oil on the face is recommended to be applied only as a protective agent in severe frost, when the other fat-containing cosmetics freezes.
Mistakes and Misconceptions
- Vaseline oil is beneficial for the skin and hair. In fact, it is a mineral product that is not absorbed by the body in any form and will not contain any specific useful substances.
As part of cosmetic products, it creates a protective film that prevents evaporation of moisture, but in its pure form also blocks access to oxygen, and as a result may cause irritation and drying of the skin. - Vaseline oil can be used as a means to lose weight. This oil is a relatively harmless laxative, with which you can carry out qualitative cleansing of the intestine, but no more. Prolonged reception of any effect, except for a constant diarrhea, will not give.
- Vaseline oil is good for use as a massage. We remind you that vaseline oil in its pure form dries the skin and can cause allergic reactions. Better still, stock up a special massage cream or oil.