Light Liquid Paraffin (LLP) Oil is a colourless, odourless mineral oil made by purifying petroleum. In cosmetics and personal care it is used as an emollient, lubricant and stabiliser because it spreads easily, sits well on the skin and resists heat and chemical change. It is INCI-listed as Paraffinum Liquidum and carries CAS number 8002-74-2.
What is Light Liquid Paraffin?
LLP is a mixture of saturated hydrocarbons in liquid form. Unlike heavy paraffin, the light grade is thinner and lighter, which makes it easier to blend into lotions, oils and hair products. It is transparent, has no strong smell, and does not react easily with other ingredients — one reason formulators like it as a carrier and consistency agent. The Azlok grade is a technical-grade oil with around 99% purity and a shelf life of roughly 24 months.
A few quick facts worth knowing before you use it: it is not soluble in water, it has a neutral-to-slightly-alkaline pH (around 7 to 9), and it has a high flash point (about 190 °C), which makes it stable during normal handling.
Common uses in cosmetics and personal care
- Skincare: Added to creams, lotions, balms and massage oils as an emollient that softens skin and slows moisture loss by forming a light surface layer.
- Haircare: Used in hair oils and serums to add slip and shine and to reduce frizz and tangling.
- Baby and gentle products: Its mild, odourless nature makes it a common base in mild oil blends and cleansing products.
- Formulation aid: Acts as a lubricant and helps stabilise the texture of finished cosmetics, giving them a smooth, spreadable feel.
- Industrial and lab lubrication: Because it is inert and heat-stable, it is also used as a lightweight lubricant and release agent.
How to use it in your formulations
LLP is an oil-phase ingredient, so it goes into the oil part of a recipe rather than the water part.
- Decide the percentage. In most leave-on products it is used at a small to moderate level — usually a single-digit to low double-digit percentage of the total recipe. Start low and adjust for feel.
- Add it to the oil phase. Combine it with your other oils, butters and oil-soluble ingredients before emulsifying with the water phase.
- Blend well. Since it does not dissolve in water, you will need a suitable emulsifier to create a stable cream or lotion.
- Test the finished feel. A little gives glide and softness; too much can feel greasy. Trial small batches first.
Safety and handling
LLP is a widely used cosmetic raw material, but treat it sensibly as you would any concentrated ingredient.
- External use only. This is a cosmetic raw ingredient, not a food or medicine. Do not swallow it.
- Patch test any new finished product on a small area of skin before regular use.
- Keep away from children and pets.
- Store away from open flames and high heat despite its high flash point.
- Clean up spills promptly — being an oil, it makes surfaces slippery.
- Refer to the product COA and MSDS for exact specifications and handling details.
Buying and storage tips
Azlok offers Light Liquid Paraffin in a range of pack sizes — 450 Gm, 900 Gm, 4.5 KG, 9 KG, 18 KG and 22.5 KG — so hobbyists making small batches and small businesses buying in bulk can both find a suitable size. Prices start at ₹299.
- Keep the container tightly closed to avoid dust and contamination.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Use clean, dry utensils each time to protect the oil and extend its usable life.
- Label your container with the purchase or opening date and use within the shelf life of about 24 months.
FAQ
Is Light Liquid Paraffin the same as mineral oil?
Yes. LLP is a refined mineral oil derived from petroleum. The light grade is simply a thinner, lighter version that blends more easily into cosmetics.
Does LLP dissolve in water?
No. It is oil-based and not soluble in water, so it must be added to the oil phase of a recipe and combined using a suitable emulsifier.
Can I apply Light Liquid Paraffin directly on skin or hair?
It is used as an emollient in skincare and haircare, but it is best used within a proper formulation and after a patch test. It is for external use only and should not be ingested.
What is the shelf life of LLP oil?
Around 24 months when stored correctly — in a tightly sealed container, in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.
Which pack size should I choose?
For testing recipes at home, the 450 Gm or 900 Gm packs are convenient. For regular production or small-business use, the 4.5 KG and larger packs are more economical.