Mink Oil
Also known as: Mustela Oil
What is Mink Oil?
An animal-derived oil rendered from the fat layer of mink pelts, with a fatty acid composition similar to human sebum.
Why is it used in products?
Its similarity to human skin lipids makes it an effective emollient that absorbs well and conditions both skin and leather.
Why does it clog pores?
Mink oil's similarity to human sebum is actually what makes it comedogenic — it essentially adds more of what your skin already overproduces if you're acne-prone. It creates a heavy occlusive layer that traps dead cells in follicles. It's one of the more highly rated comedogenic animal oils.
Commonly found in
- hair products
- moisturizers
- leather conditioners
- lip products