The Effects of Mineral Oil

Mineral oil has many uses; from the removal of makeup to being used as a skin softener. More commonly, mineral oil is used for constipation. The oil can promote movement in your bowels by coating your intestinal surfaces. As a result, water isn't absorbed into your body and the excess water softens your stools. The effects of using mineral oil can be mild to severe depending on how often you use the oil.

Common Effects

• The ingestion of mineral oil may cause you to feel nausea. Abdominal cramping may also be experienced. According to the American Cancer Society, if you take mineral oil in the laxative form for long periods of time (over a week), your bowels will lose their normal function. This is due to your bowels developing a dependency on the use of mineral oil laxatives.

Rare Effects

• Some people may experience leakage from the rectum while using mineral oil. However, this occurs if you ingest mineral oil over the recommended dosage. Diarrhea and vomiting are also rare effects of taking mineral oil. Allergic reactions can be encountered while taking mineral oil. Such reactions can include hives, rashes, swelling of your face and tongue or difficulty in breathing.

Lipid Pneumonia

• Young children and sick elderly should avoid mineral oil.

  Lipid pneumonia is a condition that results after the inhalation of lipids. Lipids refer to organic components such as fats or oils. Humans naturally have bacteria such as Staphylococci living within their nostrils. However, when you accidentally inhale mineral oil droplets, this bacteria can be transferred into you lungs via the droplets. This will result in lipid pneumonia. According to the Mayo Clinic, it isn't recommended for children under six or the bedridden elderly to take mineral oil due to the possibility of developing pneumonia.

Mineral Absorption

• Skin infections can develop due to a lack of vitamins.

  Mineral oil can prevent the absorption of minerals into your body. Mineral oil can stop the absorption of carotene. When you take in carotene, this nutrient is converted into vitamin A. Without vitamin A, your body can develop skin infections.