Natural vs Petroleum Oils in Skincare: 14 Important Differences

Applying the best from the plant kingdom to the skin feels incredibly luxurious while also nourishing the skin.

Here we clarify some major differences between vegetable oils found in organic skincare and petroleum oils found in conventional skincare.

14 differences between vegetable and petroleum-based oils

Advantages of vegetable oils

1. absorbed by the skin.⠀
2. similar to our own skin fat (sebum).
3. provide essential fatty acids that build skin cells.⠀
4. nourish the skin with antioxidants.⠀
5. break down easily in nature.⠀
6. protect and strengthen the skin’s protective mantle/barrier.⠀

Disadvantages of petroleum oils

1. not absorbed by the skin.⠀
2. protect the skin but clog pores.⠀
3. prevent the skin from absorbing fat-soluble vitamins.⠀
4. do not contain fatty acids or antioxidants.⠀
5. are environmentally harmful and break down poorly in nature (only 25-40% decompose).⠀
6. pollute water and soil.⠀
7. are extracted from non-renewable raw materials.⠀
8. make the skin dependent on more fat.

By choosing organic or natural skincare products without synthetic/chemical additives, we contribute to more sustainable consumption and a better future.

We think it’s an easy choice.