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. These ointments seal in moisture, thereby reducing the skin dryness and flakiness that contribute to itching.
Is Vaseline a good moisturizer? According to researchers , petroleum jelly is one of the most effective moisturizers on the market. It works by sitting on top of the skin, where it forms a barrier and prevents water from leaving your skin. Vaseline can be used as an everyday moisturizer for very dry skin.
It turns out that dermatologists agree that Vaseline is an excellent addition to your skincare routine. The American Academy of Dematology even has a whole article that's titled, ``5 ways to use petroleum jelly for skin care''.
Additionally, as detailed below, petrolatum or mineral oil jelly and mineral oils can cause skin damage. Petrolatum may interfere with the body's moisturizing mechanism, leading to dry skin and chapping despite its cosmetic use as lip and skin protection.
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.
Dr. Davis says because petroleum jelly is chemically similar to proteins in our skin, it's also a good choice for treating everything from chapped lips to dry cuticles, hands and feet.
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.
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.
Vaseline® has been a fixture in homes for decades. This much-loved product is safe to use on your body and your face. The triple-purified petroleum jelly helps restore the skin and seal in moisture making it ideal for use on the face.
Applying Vaseline® Jelly under eyes is a tried-and-tested way to lock in moisture, keeping skin in the eye area soft and elastic, and rejuvenating skin that looks dry and tired.
Slugging is basically the process of slathering your face (or, in some cases, your nails) with petroleum jelly overnight. Social media skin care gurus claim it has given them a gorgeous glow. So, how does it work? “Petroleum jelly is a simple and very occlusive ointment,” Dr. Kassouf says.
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.
"If you need a basic protective barrier, Vaseline is a great option. But if you want something that helps with healing, moisture retention, and skin repair, Aquaphor is the better choice.
Petroleum jelly is made from a blend of natural waxes and mineral oils. People often refer in general to petroleum jelly as “Vaseline®”, but the real Vaseline® petroleum jelly is different. The real Vaseline® petroleum jelly is triple purified to remove impurities. It is gentle enough to be used on sensitive skin.
Certain all-natural ingredients like coconut oil or olive oil are considered comedogenic (pore-blocking)16, and might not be appropriate for many types of skin, including sensitive skin. For more sensitive areas, opt for moisturizing agents that are non-comedogenic, like Vaseline® Jelly.
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.
As consumers look for products more aligned with their health and environmental values, several alternatives to Vaseline have gained popularity: Plant Oils and Butters (Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Coconut Oil): These are natural fats that provide hydration and nourishment to the skin.
Vaseline is recommended to prepare the buccal cavity, lubricate the sensitive areas and improve sliding of the rubber dam. Composed with healthy pure petrolatum jelly for dental use, the gel is hypoallergenic, unscented, stable and non-water soluble.