Is Mineral Oil safe during pregnancy?
Common emollient in lotions and baby oil. Fine on skin in pregnancy; avoid on nipples before feeds.
PregnancyGenerally safe
BreastfeedingUse with care
EvidenceLimited
What the sources say
Mineral oil is an FDA-recognized OTC skin protectant (50–100%). AAD recommends regular moisturizing in pregnancy. LactMed advises using water-miscible products on the breast rather than ointments, because mineral paraffins can be ingested by the infant via licking. Limit: keep off the nipple area before feeding.
Common alternatives
Also listed as
baby oil, liquid paraffin, paraffin oil, paraffinum liquidum, white mineral oil
Sources
- FDA (21 CFR 347.10): Skin protectant active ingredients - OTC monograph regulation
- AAD: Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin care
- NIH LactMed: Benzoyl Peroxide - Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed)
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.