All baby oil manufacturers provide adequate safety instructions with regards to their products individually. All oils will burn if submitted to a certain amount of heat. But this does not qualify them all as “flammable”. As responsible parents, you may have the question: is baby oil flammable? Short answer to this question is NO, it is not flammable but must be kept away from fire as it will catch fire if exposed to it. It usually burns at about 300 degrees Fahrenheit or 150 degrees celsius.
Most baby oil is typically made from mineral oil, which is a petroleum derivative. It is further refined until it meets skin/cosmetic use safety requirements. Petroleum-based oils like mineral oil are combustible and can catch fire if exposed to an open flame or a source of ignition. It is important to keep baby oil away from heat sources, flames, and sparks to avoid the risk of fire. Always follow the product’s safety instructions and keep it stored in a cool and safe place.
Ingredients used in baby oils:

- Mineral Oil: It is a clear, odorless, and lightweight oil derived from petroleum. Mineral oil is commonly used as a base in baby oils due to its moisturizing properties.
- Fragrance: Many products contain a fragrance to provide a pleasant scent. The specific fragrance used can vary between products. Some products may have a neutral scent, useful to people who are allergic to certain odours.
- Vitamin E: Some products may include vitamin E, which is known for its antioxidant properties and potential benefits for the skin. Manufacturers enrich the oil with vitamin E.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a plant extract that is sometimes added to baby oils for its soothing and moisturizing properties. Almost all brands have a version of their product with Aloe Vera and follow this marketing trend. Aloe Vera is well known for its skin benefits.
- Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil is a natural oil derived from the seeds of the jojoba plant. It is often included in baby oils for its moisturizing and nourishing effects on the skin.
- Chamomile Extract: Chamomile extract is known for its calming and soothing properties. It may be added to baby oils to provide a gentle and relaxing effect.
- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is a natural oil extracted from coconuts. It is sometimes used in baby oils for its moisturizing and skin-conditioning properties.
- Olive Oil
- Vegetable oils – This type of liquid is flammable. So, if you have this ingredient in your baby oil, you need to avoid letting it gets in touch with fire.
- Other plant based oils