Occlusives, such as petroleum jelly, create a barrier over the skin, helping prevent water loss. Two other common occlusive moisturizers are lanolin and mineral oil.
While not as bad as grease, Vaseline (petroleum jelly) can still cause clogs and requires proper disposal.
Since petroleum jelly is both waterproof and not water soluble, it creates a waterproof barrier on the skin.
Petroleum jelly (vaseline) is insoluble in water. It is soluble in dichloromethane, chloroform, benzene, diethyl ether, carbon disulfide and turpentine.
Vaseline isn't a humectant, meaning it doesn't add moisture to the lips or skin—it just seals it in. One of the most effective occlusive moisturizers on the market, Vaseline can reduce water loss through the skin by nearly 99%.
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.
Petroleum jelly is an oil-based product that forms an oily film over the surface of the skin. This oily film seals in moisture, helping keep skin hydrated and soft. According to a 2016 review article, Vaseline prevents more than 98% of water loss from the outer layer of the skin.
These substances commonly cause allergic contact dermatitis, which can cause eczema flares. The main downside to pure petroleum jelly is that it is very thick, which makes it hard to apply or rub on the skin. It also leaves a shiny, greasy residue on the skin.
However, it's important to choose the right type of grease for the job at hand, as some types can actually damage pipes and you never want to use vaseline or other household items as a substitute.
May harm pipes: Blocking the top of the drain after pouring in baking soda and vinegar may create pressure that's difficult to control. This pressure may damage thin, delicate PVC drain pipes.
Although it's most commonly used on lips – in the form of Vaseline – as an occlusive, meaning it helps skin retain moisture, it also effectively melts away waterproof mascara. It's literally a case of coating lashes with it, wait around five minutes and then remove with a cotton pad.
What is the Difference Between White and Yellow Vaseline? White petroleum jelly or white Vaseline is more refined and purer, making it suitable for cosmetic and medical uses, while yellow Vaseline, being less refined, is typically used for industrial purposes.
Though not as harmful as grease, Vaseline (petroleum jelly) is a viscous solution that can and will cause clogs.
Vaseline is not as good as wool fat at keeping you warm, however it is still effective. It also means you slip through the water slightly easier and it can also reduce the effects of jellyfish stingers during ocean swims as the tentacle barbs slip off, rather than penetrate your skin.
The main difference between petroleum jelly and petrolatum is their purity level. Petroleum jelly is a mixture of semi-solid hydrocarbons that may contain some impurities, while petrolatum is a purified form of petroleum jelly that is free of impurities.
Petroleum jelly is water repellent, making it an effective barrier against moisture.
Moisturize Your Skin – It's not just the skin on your face that shows the signs of aging. As you begin menopause, the rest of your skin can become drier, causing itching and peeling. Moisturizing your skin with Vaseline® Mature Skin Rejuvenation Lotion can help keep it soft and smooth.
Avoid on Fresh Burns and Deep Wounds: Do not apply petroleum jelly on fresh, severe burns or deep wounds. It can trap heat and bacteria, hindering the healing process. Not for Acne-Prone Skin: If you have oily or acne-prone skin, avoid using it on your face as it can exacerbate acne by clogging pores.
Aquaphor is a semi-occlusive formulation with 41% petroleum jelly and panthenol, glycerin, and lanolin alcohol. Like Vaseline, the petroleum jelly in Aquaphor keeps moisture in the skin—but because it's not pure petroleum jelly, it also allows for the flow of oxygen.
Vaseline® Jelly is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, non-irritating and held to the highest purity standards. It's 100% pure, and a great ingredient for locking in moisture. That's why so many people reach for it to heal their dry skin.