What it is
Paraffin is a blend of straight-chain saturated hydrocarbons obtained by refining petroleum fractions, ranging from soft microcrystalline grades to harder waxes. In cosmetics it provides an occlusive film that slows transepidermal water loss and lends body, hardness, and a smooth glide to balms and sun sticks. Its chemical inertness and oxidative stability make it useful for setting the structure of anhydrous stick products.
Safety & warnings
Cosmetic-grade paraffin is highly purified and is widely regarded as well tolerated and non-sensitizing. Because it is occlusive and waxy, very rich anhydrous formulas may feel heavy on oily or acne-prone skin, though refined paraffin itself is generally considered low on the comedogenicity scale. It is not a recognized fragrance allergen.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic in the sense of being industrially refined from petroleum (mineral source); it is a purified petrochemical rather than a plant- or animal-derived material.
Questions everyone asks
Is paraffin the same as mineral oil?
They are chemically related, both being refined petroleum hydrocarbons, but paraffin refers to the semi-solid to solid waxy grades while mineral oil is the liquid fraction. In sticks, paraffin contributes hardness.
Why is paraffin used in sunscreen sticks?
It helps build a firm, smooth structure and forms an occlusive emollient film, which suits anhydrous stick formats that need to stay solid and glide evenly.