Alleviating itching. Atopic dermatitis is a skin condition that causes patches of dry, flaky, and itchy skin. Dermatologists often recommend petroleum jelly and similar ointments as a treatment for atopic dermatitis.
Dawn Davis, M.D.: Petroleum jelly is great, and it's one of a dermatologist's main tips and tricks. Mr. Olsen: Dermatologist Dr. Dawn Davis says that's because this odorless nearly colorless jelly is so versatile.
To save on skin care, dermatologists recommend using petroleum jelly to: Relieve dry skin, including your lips and eyelids.
In terms of feel, Vaseline is a bit heavier and greasier, whereas Aquaphor is a bit lighter and easier to spread. Dermatologists say deciding which one to use often comes down to personal preference. One thing to keep in mind is that you'll want to use caution with these products if your skin is prone to breakouts.
While Vaseline helps seal moisture into the skin, some experts have suggested that it may also trap in oil and dirt. As such, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) warn that people who are prone to acne may experience breakouts after applying Vaseline to the face.
Shea Butter: Renowned for its moisturizing and healing properties, shea butter is a popular, natural alternative to petroleum jelly. Aloe Vera Gel: Known for its soothing and healing properties, it's a go-to option for sunburns, minor cuts, and skin irritation.
Petroleum jelly runs a high risk of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) contaminants linked to cancer. The European Union restricts the use of petrolatum in cosmetics and has set a PAH limit as well.
But hold on, can you put Vaseline® products on your face? The frequently asked question has a simple answer: Yes! Vaseline® products, including Vaseline® Original Healing Jelly, are absolutely safe for your skin. The Vaseline® Jelly is non-comedogenic, which means it does not block or clog your pores.
This will help keep the wound moist and allow it to heal faster with less scarring. Continue applying the petroleum jelly until the wound has fully healed. Open wounds heal more slowly. A large wound can take 4 weeks or more to heal.
While the petroleum jelly in both Vaseline and Aquaphor can prevent further water loss and help restore skin barrier function, Aquaphor also contains glycerin, a humectant. “Humectants have the added benefit of helping to hydrate skin that has experienced transepidermal water loss,” she says.
Although there is no scientific evidence to indicate that petroleum jelly can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, its moisturizing properties may help keep skin looking and feeling soft and supple. It can also provide a protective barrier against environmental damage, which may slow down the natural aging process.
Peter Elias, M.D. '67, UCSF dermatology professor emeritus, found that applying Vaseline petroleum jelly to mice reduced the levels of inflammation in their blood. A small study by Elias and other researchers suggested the same might be true of humans.
Coconut Oil's ability to penetrate the skin seamlessly makes it equally as effective as Petroleum Jelly when treating dryness. However, Coconut Oil is gentler on the skin, the hair, and the environment.
The American Academy of Dermatology talks about using petroleum jelly to help heal wounds and minimize scars. Dermatologists typically recommend using plain petrolatum for wounds rather than topical antibiotic ointments due to the high rates of contact allergies associated with many topical antibiotics.
While they look and feel similar, their ingredients are different. Aquaphor combines petrolatum with several moisturizing and skin-healing ingredients. Vaseline is 100% petrolatum. Aquaphor is the better choice to use on very dry skin, chapped lips, and eczema.
Locks in Moisture and Prevents Water Loss
But that's not all, because while the Vaseline jelly works to seal moisture into skin, it also locks in all the other beauty products from your night-time routine. Which can help your beauty products to work more effectively.
A: There is no medical proof that applying Vaseline under the eyes will help eye bags caused by the natural aging process. The Vaseline website encourages applying a thin layer to help heal and protect dry or chapped skin around the eyes. However, they do not recommend the product as a means of reducing under-eye bags.
Vitamin deficiencies can cause chapped lips—for example, deficiencies in B vitamins, iron, zinc, and vitamin C. Other factors that may cause chapped lips include dehydration, sun exposure, and cold weather.
A great, natural lip alternative to petroleum jelly–based balms and moisturisers is lanolin. Lanolin is a deeply moisturising oil naturally occurring in sheep's wool, making lanolin ingredients all-natural and extremely hydrating.