Although there are many misconceptions and myths about this occlusive moisturizer, petrolatum is an FDA-approved skin protectant with a well-established history as a safe and effective cosmetic ingredient. When properly refined, there are no known health concerns associated with the use of petrolatum.
Petrolatum has been around since 1872. More common names for this material are petroleum jelly or Vaseline® (a registered trademark of Unilever). It has evolved from a relatively impure waxy substance to the highly refined product that we know today.
As in case of any other cosmetic product, there is a possibility of skin irritation or an allergic reaction on using petroleum jelly. If not applied on a clean skin, there is a risk of infections. Applying petroleum jelly around the nose area, may cause aspiration pneumonia.
Yes, petrolatum is generally considered safe for use on the skin. However, it is important to follow product instructions and use only properly formulated and tested products.
Health and Environmental Hazards
A petroleum product, petrolatum can be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Studies suggest that exposure to PAHs — including skin contact over extended periods of time — is associated with cancer.
So, in 2004 the EU labeled petrolatum a carcinogen with this language, “except if the full refining history is known and it can be shown that the substance from which it is produced is not a carcinogen.” So, a nicely refined petrolatum, with a good history has no problems, not even in Europe.
Risks associated with petrolatum
The European Union classifies petrolatum as a carcinogen and restricts its use in cosmetics to only when the full refining history is known, and it can be proven non-carcinogenic. Petrolatum is considered a high human health priority to Canadian authorities [1].
It's considered to be a highly effective and safe moisturizing ingredient—and it's even sometimes used for post-surgical wound care.
Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: unusual changes in the skin (such as turning white/soft/soggy from too much wetness), signs of skin infection. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
Avoid - Vaseline, mineral oil, paraffin wax, liquid paraffin, liquid petrolatum, mineral grease and mineral jelly. Phthalates (DBP, DEHP, DMP, DEP) These are known endocrine disruptors and respiratory toxicants and may cause birth defects, male infertility and allergies associated with the skin, eyes and lungs.
The skin does not easily absorb petroleum jelly. This means that it is not really a moisturizer, but a barrier that can keep dirt out and prevent moisture loss. People can try applying it to irritated skin before spending time outside in cold, dry, windy air.
If you have very bad dryness and irritation, a hydrating moisturizer may be better for you. Never use petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline®) as a moisturizer. It can irritate your vagina and vulva. It can also raise your risk of getting a vaginal infection.
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Native Americans had also constructed complex oil pits in Western Pennsylvania and other areas. Here, too, petroleum jelly was being used as a salve for skin ailments.
To sum up: while petrolatum doesn't clog pores, make sure your skin is thoroughly cleansed and follow up with simple, lightweight products your skin tolerates well with before applying your petrolatum.
Unlike Vaseline (100% petrolatum), which is occlusive, Aquaphor (41% petrolatum) claims to form a semi-occlusive barrier on the skin. If correct, this in theory should enable the transmission of water and oxygen, which is important for wound healing and the formation of a protective moist healing environment.
Petroleum Jelly Disadvantages. Petroleum jelly may have some disadvantages in cosmetic and industrial applications. Petroleum jelly side effects on the skin might include clogging pores, the possibility of infection, and sunburn.
Exhaust from diesel engines can cause lung cancer. Exposure to gasoline vapors may increase the risk of cancer. Formaldehyde (gas) can cause leukemia and cancers of the nose, throat, and sinuses. Naphthalene and other polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) exposure may increase the risk of cancer.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: deep/open/puncture wounds, broken/damaged/blistered skin, animal bites, serious burns. If you are using this product for hemorrhoids and bleeding from the rectum occurs, stop using it and consult your doctor promptly.
CeraVe and Cetaphil are both dermatologist-recommended brands, and most of their products are fragrance-free, which is helpful for sensitive skin types. They make products such as: Facial cleansers and face washes. Moisturizing creams.
Petroleum Distillates
Banned in the EU for being a possible carcinogen, this ingredient can be found in cosmetics in the U.S. “It's a byproduct of gasoline that can have impurities and carcinogens associated with it,” says King.
Petrolatum has usability drawbacks, such as its heavy texture, potential for clogging pores, and possible impurities. Petrolatum-free skincare products, like those offered by OneSkin, are available as a safer alternative.
How likely are total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) to cause cancer? The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has determined that one TPH compound (benzene) is carcinogenic to humans. IARC has determined that other TPH compounds (benzo[a]pyrene and gasoline) are probably and possibly carcinogenic to humans.