Common Name(s): Hydrogenated mink oil,mustela vison (mink) mink animal fat (hydrogenated) ester

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Softens and conditions skin with a light, non-greasy feel.

Why It's Used: Used for its animal-derived waxy emollient; mink oil composition close to human sebum; strongly discouraged due to animal welfare (mink farming) concerns emollient properties; suitable for lightweight skin care where non-greasy texture is key.

How It Works: Ester of mustela vison (mink) (branched or specialty alcohol) with mink animal fat (hydrogenated); branching reduces crystallinity and greasiness; provides smooth, dry-oil skin feel.

Typically Found In: Lightweight moisturizers,sunscreens,skin serums,body lotions

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Functional ingredient – emollient

Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning,texture modification,spreading agent

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–10%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: No - animal-derived

Halal Status: Conditional - species, slaughter status, and synthetic-versus-animal confirmation required

Source Notes: Mustela vison (mink) and mink animal fat (hydrogenated); plant or synthetic origin. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: animal origin; may also be a synthetic bearing a legacy animal name. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low

Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1.

Works Well With: Other emollients,silicones,natural oils,humectants

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Hydrogenated mink oil is solid form of mink fat; mink oil's fatty acid profile (palmitoleic, oleic, palmitic dominant) closely resembles human sebum; use is strongly discouraged due to mink farming animal welfare concerns; plant alternatives preferred.

Last Verified: 2026-03-28

Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary