Who would ever think that a product made for babies could also hurt them? Unfortunately, baby oil-a staple of the nursery-contains almost 100% mineral oil which has many hazardous side effects...
First of all, mineral oil is a petroleum ingredient. It comes from crude oil and and is used as a metal cutting fluid.
It coats the skin like plastic wrap. When applied, mineral oil can promote acne and other skin disorders. Mineral oil also slows down normal cell development and causes the skin to prematurely age.
The most significant hazard is that mineral oil blocks the pores of the skin. This does not allow the skin to breathe and prevents the natural release of toxins from the skin. Since the skin is the body's largest elimination organ, this is a serious health hazard, especially for a baby.
Another significant problem with mineral oil for babies is that it may possibly cause vitamin deficiencies because it is absorbed into the skin, gets processed by the liver and then nutrients get bound by the oil, blocking their absorption.
According to the International Agency for Research into Cancer in Geneva, mineral oils are probably carcinogenic as 'analyses of mineral oils used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes reveal the presence of several carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons which are in the Eighth Report on Carcinogens, including benzofluoranthene, benzofluoranthene, and benzo[a]pyrene.' They're noted as a human teratogen by inhalation which has caused testicular tumours in the foetus. They are also skin and eye irritants and may be implicated in aspirational pneumonia.
I cannot recommend strongly enough that you do not use mineral oil for yourself, but especially not on a baby. Instead, choose a natural vegetable oil alternative. It will work far better and be safe for your baby.
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