We Need to Talk About Mineral Oil

Whether you know it or not, you’ve been relying on mineral oil for decades. It’s in your baby oil, it’s in the ever popular Vaseline, and it’s even the main ingredient in the very expensive Elizabeth Arden 8 hour cream (Are you paying a hefty amount for an overpriced tub of Vaseline? You decide!) While you’ve been led to believe mineral oil is safe to use on yourself, and even on young children, the question is, to what extent?

What is Mineral Oil?

Mineral oil is a colourless and odourless oil that’s made from petroleum, which means it’s literally the material leftover after petroleum has been distilled to produce gasoline.It’s long been used as a common ingredient in lotions, creams, ointments, and cosmetics. It’s lightweight and inexpensive, and helps reduce water loss from the skin.

Is it Natural?

While mineral oils used in cosmetics are derived from petroleum, which is made from the residue of plant and animal life (fossil fuels) , the mineral oils used in cosmetics go through such an intense purification to be made safe for the skin that there is hardly anything left of the original material afterwards. Doesn’t sound too natural, does it?

Is it Toxic?

Thankfully for us, a lot of research has been carried out in regards to the safety of mineral oils in cosmetics. The European Food Safety Authority has proven that purified cosmetic mineral oil is NOT toxic. The rumour that mineral oil can cause cancer is also untrue. If you’re still wary, you’ll be pleased to know that any form of mineral oil applied to your skin only stays on TOP of your skin, and is not absorbed into your bloodstream. This is a plus point for people with extremely dry skin, or skin conditions like Eczema, because the mineral oil forms a layer of insulation which makes it difficult for moisture to evaporate, helping dry skin recover quickly.

And for those of us who are afraid that this exact sealing affect will cause acne, good news; mineral oil does not give you spots. It does not block your pores and does not trap the sebum your skin produces. This is because Skin does not breathe and only receives oxygen through your bloodstream. The fact that it’s safe, it’s incredibly moisturising as well as inexpensive, is probably why mineral oil has been used in lotion, creams, ointments and the like for decades. But is this necessarily a good thing?

The Cons

Mineral oil in it’s ‘purest’ form has a tacky and thick consistency (Vaseline for example), and does not feel pleasant on the skin. Thinner forms of the oil, which are nicer to use, will not work as effectively and hydrate the skin less. And if you thought there’s no such thing as too much hydration, we’ve got some news for you; over-hydration is real. Mineral oils trap moisture so well that your skin ends up becoming TOO moist. While at first you’ll feel like your skin is glowing and moisture rich, eventually your skin will become dependant on the mineral oil and a vicious cycle will start; your skin quickly dries without cream and you find yourself having to apply more and more.

Products with mineral oil form such an effective layer on the skin that sweat bubbles could even form! Scientifically known as Milaria Rubra, people who sweat easily, work in warm environments or do intensive physical training run the risk of these liquid bumps forming on their skin due to sweat being trapped underneath a layer of mineral oil and not being released properly.

Which brings us to our next point. Products with high concentrations of mineral oils do NOTHING except hydrate. They have no other benefits, no anti- oxidising properties or soothing ingredients. So if you’re using a cream with “ liquid petroleum,” “paraffin oil,” or “white mineral oil” as one of it’s main ingredients, it’s best to switch to a cream with other active ingredients and to just layer a mineral oil product on top, so it works more effectively and stops all the good stuff from evaporating off the skin.

It’s also important to note, while purified mineral oil is not toxic and almost no particles absorb through the skin, a recent study has found that hydrocarbons (linked to cancer) from mineral oil could be retrieved from body fat and breast milk. However, there’s no need to panic as the study couldn’t prove whether they were there due to food, inhalation of polluted air or by cosmetic products, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

While mineral oil rich products are flag-bearers of hydration, we should only be sticking to products that make your skin stronger, more beautiful and more enduring. It’s best to ditch all the mineral oil heavy cosmetics in exchange for organic skincare products with more natural ingredients that are organically derived and are better for your skin, your pocket and also the environment.

Disclaimer: All Conatural Skincare Products are 100% Mineral oil free! Conatural is the leading organic skincare brand in Pakistan.

Why Should You Use a Face Mask?

Face masks are a key component of any skincare routine. Whether you're struggling with dullness, pigmentation, breakouts, or an uneven skin tone, there's a mask that can treat your problem. Here are some reasons to use face masks in your weekly routine:

Face masks can deeply cleanse your pores
They can hydrate, brighten, or detox your skin based on the product ingredients
They improve skin texture and leave your skin with a healthy glow
They can give your skin a refreshing boost before an occasion and/or after a long day

The key is to choose the right beauty mask for your skin type and your current skin needs.

There is a mask for every skin type; you just need to choose the right one based on your skin type and current skin concerns. So, before selecting a face mask, ask yourself the following question:

Is your skin dry, oily, combination, or sensitive?

Once you’ve identified your skin type and concern, it’s easier to find the best face mask that can provide real results.

What to Look for in a Face Mask?

Natural face masks with clean, non-toxic ingredients can do wonders for your skin! Here are some ingredients to look out for:

Clay: Deep cleanses and removes oil
Licorice root: Brightens and soothes
Turmeric: Reduces acne and adds glow
Fruit enzymes: Gently exfoliate and renew skin
Vitamin C: Boosts radiance and fights dark spots

Don’t settle for less. Harmful chemicals and toxic skin care products have been shown in studies to damage skin, so make sure you're using a clean product. Conatural’s face masks are made with all of these plant-based ingredients to give your skin the love it needs, with no nasty chemicals, parabens, or synthetic fragrances.

Face Mask For Dull & Tired Skin

If your face seems dull or tired, you need a facial mask that can brighten your skin and instantly give it a glowing effect. So, for people with such skin concerns, we have made a fantastic face mask, “The Instant Glow Face Mask".

It is the perfect skincare product for achieving a glowing complexion and works best when your skin appears tired, stressed, or lacking radiance. It is created with a mixture of natural clays and natural plant extracts that not only help detox your skin but also give it a beautiful glow.

Instant Glow Face Mask 120g

Rs.3,000

Key Ingredients of Instant Glow Face Mask

Contains kaolin clay to draw out impurities
Enriched with orange peel extract for natural exfoliation
Packed with licorice root to brighten and calm the skin

How to Use the Conatural Instant Glow Face Mask?

How to Use:

Empty one sachet of Instant Glow Face Mask into a bowl.
Mix with 1–2 teaspoons of yogurt (or rose water for acne-prone skin) to form a thick paste.
Apply to the face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
Massage gently for a minute, then leave on for 15–20 minutes.
Rinse with cold water and pat dry.
Moisturize if needed.
Use 1–2 times a week for best results.

This mask is perfect for anyone looking to boost skin radiance, especially before a wedding, party, or photo shoot.

Best for: Normal, combination, and oily skin
Key concern: Dullness, uneven tone, lack of glow
When to use: Before special events or weekly to maintain the glow

Face Mask For Dark Spots & Pigmentation

Uneven skin complexion and dark spots can definitely make us look older than our actual age. If you are dealing with hyperpigmentation, acne scars, or just looking dull, consider adding the Conatural’s White Face Brightening Mask to your skincare routine.

It really helps brighten the skin naturally, reduces dark spots and pigmentation over time, as well as soothes the skin with natural fruit enzymes.

So, simply put, it won’t be wrong to say that this mask is specifically formulated to give your skin a brighter, more even appearance without harsh chemicals. With regular use, it can improve overall skin clarity.

White Mask

Rs.2,700

Key Ingredients of White Mask

Bearberry extract: for natural skin lightening
Vitamin C: for antioxidant protection and brightness
Fruit acids: to exfoliate and renew the skin gently

How to Use the White Mask?

Conatural’s White Mask is designed to exfoliate, brighten, and nourish your skin!

How to Use:

Start with clean, dry skin.
Apply a thin, even layer of the mask, avoiding the eye area.
Leave it on for 3 minutes to let the ingredients activate.
Gently massage in circular motions for 3-5 minutes until the mask changes from white to grey. This indicates exfoliation is complete.
Rinse thoroughly with water and pat your skin dry.
Your skin may feel dry after use, as the mask exfoliates with a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA). To restore moisture, apply an oil-based cream to nourish and hydrate your skin.

Best for: All skin types, especially sensitive and pigmented skin
Key concern: Pigmentation, dead skin, acne scars, dullness
When to use: Twice a week for visible results

Which Mask Should You Choose?

Skin Concern	Recommended Product	Key Benefit
Dull, tired skin	Instant Glow Face Mask	Adds instant radiance
Pigmentation, dark spots	White Face Brightening Mask	Brightens and evens skin tone

End Note

Face masks are undoubtedly an essential element of skincare routines that you can’t ignore. However, to get the most out of the beauty face masks, you have to choose the one that actually works for your skin.

And to do that, first you’ll have to identify your skin type and what concerns you want to treat with a face mask. After determining these factors, go for organic face masks (like Conatural’s) and stay consistent with their use. Within a week, you’ll be able to see visibly amazing results and a natural glow on your face.

FAQs

Can I use more than one mask in a week?

Absolutely! By using different masks on different areas of your face, you can address different skin concerns. This is referred to as multi-masking. For example, you might apply the Instant Glow Face Mask to the dull areas and the White Face Brightening Mask to the pigmented areas.

How long should I leave a face mask on?

Always follow the directions on the product's label. Generally, 10-20 minutes is ideal. If you're still wearing it after this amount of time, you may be doing more harm than good, especially if it contains active ingredients, which can irritate your skin.

How often should I apply a face mask?

Once or twice a week is typically enough. If you have sensitive skin, try applying it once a week, gradually increasing the frequency if tolerated.