Ingredient · Updated

Ozokerite

Neutral in 7 Flagged in 5

Found in 12 productsSee all

What is Ozokerite?

Ozokerite is a naturally occurring mineral wax, typically obtained through mining. It is a mixture of hydrocarbons and is found in various solid forms. After extraction, it is purified and refined for use in different applications.

In cosmetics and personal care products, ozokerite is used to give products a thick and creamy consistency, providing stability and improving texture. The safety evidence indicates that it is generally considered safe for use in the quantities typically found in cosmetics, though it might not be suitable for every skin type, particularly sensitive skin.

When you see ozokerite on a label, it's being used mainly for its textural properties, helping products maintain a solid form at room temperature. It is not known for having any significant health concerns.

Commonly found in: lip balms, lipsticks, creams, lotions, deodorants

What to watch

  • May cause irritation in individuals with sensitive skin when used in high concentrations.

Benefits

  • Contributes to product stability and texture, providing a creamy and solid consistency.
FDA

Ozokerite is generally recognized as safe by the FDA when used in cosmetics and personal care products.

Research

Studies on ozokerite indicate that it is safe for topical use, with minimal risk of adverse effects.

Vegan

While ozokerite itself is mineral-based, some vegans may choose to avoid it due to its mining origins and potential environmental impact.

Sources: Safety Assessment of Ozokerite as Used in Cosmetics

Scout's take

Petroleum-derived wax used to give the stick structure. Refined but still petroleum-source — the main demerit in otherwise clean naturals.

The case against

There are minimal risks, though it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.

from the analysis of The INKEY List Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Stick, Size:, None · echoed in 2 other analyses

There are minimal risks, primarily related to potential impurities if not properly refined.

from the analysis of Salt & Stone Natural Deodorant - Bergamot & Hinoki

Ozokerite is generally safe, but it may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

from the analysis of Salt & Stone Deodorant - Neroli & Basil

There are no significant risks associated with ozokerite in topical applications.

from the analysis of Crystal Magnesium Deodorant Stick Coconut & Vanilla

Generally considered safe, but can cause minor irritation if used excessively.

from the analysis of Native Deodorant Aluminum Free Sea Salt & Cedar for Women and Men

The case for

It helps to maintain the solid form of the deodorant, ensuring ease of application.

from the analysis of Crystal Magnesium Deodorant Stick Coconut & Vanilla

It helps to stabilize the product, ensuring consistent application.

from the analysis of Salt & Stone Deodorant - Neroli & Basil

It helps to stabilize the product and improve its application.

from the analysis of Tone Aluminum-Free Deodorant - Fresh

It helps to stabilize and thicken cosmetic formulations.

from the analysis of The INKEY List Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Stick, Size:, None

More from Scout's analyses

Ozokerite is a naturally occurring mineral wax used as a thickening agent in cosmetics. It helps to provide structure and stability to formulations. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

from the analysis of The INKEY List Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Stick, Size:, None

Ozokerite is a naturally occurring mineral wax used to stabilize and thicken formulations. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics. It provides structure to the product.

from the analysis of Salt & Stone Natural Deodorant - Bergamot & Hinoki

Ozokerite is a mineral wax used to thicken and stabilize formulations. It helps to provide structure to the deodorant stick. Its role is primarily functional, with no direct benefits or risks to the skin.

from the analysis of Native Deodorant Aluminum Free Sea Salt & Cedar for Women and Men

All 12 products with Ozokerite

Where Ozokerite shows up

Higher-scoring picks without Ozokerite

Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Ozokerite, scoring 80 or above.

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