Mineral oil is used in pharmaceutical creams and ointments cosmetics food-processing applications and as a lubricant or release agent. It is also used as a solventvehicle and processing aid in various formulations.

Its main purpose is to act as a lubricant emollient vehicle and formulation aid. In pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations it can help provide smoothness and reduce moisture loss from the skin.

Mineral oil is a purified mixture of liquid hydrocarbons derived from petroleum commonly available as light or white mineral oil. It is generally colorless odorless and chemically stable.