What isn't as well known are the potential side effects of using Vaseline. Side effects. These side effects include allergies, infections, clogged pores, and hydrocarbon exposure. Petroleum jelly runs a high risk of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) contaminants linked to cancer.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects.
But there are definitely reasons why vaseline is probably not the ideal everyday moisturizer: it's sticky and shiny (which looks and feels gross), and long-term use can cause your skin to be over-hydrated and that can cause your skin to be less good at moisturizing itself.
Vaseline is a mixture of natural waxes and mineral oils and is considered minimally toxic when ingested.
Share on Pinterest Vaseline is safe for most people to use as a moisturizing product. Vaseline is a moisturizing product that is safe for most people to put on their face. People can apply Vaseline to help with short-term skin concerns, such as temporary skin dryness or irritation.
Even if the ingredient is similar to the main ingredients in artificial tear lubricants (mineral oil), it still should not be used because it is not an antibiotic and it is also not sterile! If you do have a corneal abrasion, you could be adding bacteria by applying the non-sterile petroleum jelly.
Studies suggest that exposure to PAHs — including skin contact over extended periods of time — is associated with cancer. On this basis, the European Union classifies petrolatum a carcinogen ii and restricts its use in cosmetics. PAHs in petrolatum can also cause skin irritation and allergies.
In that regulation, petrolatum is banned from the use in cosmetic products unless the full refining history is known and the substance from which it is produced is not a carcinogen.
Several natural and sustainable alternatives provide similar benefits to Vaseline: Shea Butter: Extracted from the nuts of the shea tree, it's known for its moisturizing and healing properties. Coconut Oil: A versatile oil that's solid at room temperature and melts on contact with skin, offering excellent hydration.
People should never use Vaseline as a sexual lubricant. Vaseline can damage latex condoms, trap bacteria that can lead to an infection, and stain clothing and bedsheets. Instead of Vaseline, people may want to consider choosing a high quality, water-based lubricant.
The natural oils reduce friction and lock in moisture. Without it, you may experience hair breakage, split ends, and frizz. Vaseline can act as a stand-in for these natural oils, combating dryness and acting as a protective barrier for your hair. So, it just might be worth using Vaseline on your hair and scalp.
Olsen: One recent study called petroleum jelly the best way to reduce the risk of eczema in newborns. 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.
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 petroleum jelly has many benefits, it shouldn't be used for everything. Avoid putting petroleum jelly on your face if you are acne-prone, as this may cause breakouts in some people. If you have questions about your skin or how to take care of it, see a board-certified dermatologist.
Using Vaseline on your lips
That said, as noted above, it won't add moisture, which is why you should hydrate your lips first if they're dry.To use Vaseline on your lips, apply a thin layer using your finger or a cotton swab. For a healthy, hydrated pout first thing in the morning, leave it on overnight.
Unrefined (unprocessed) petrolatum products used in manufacturing and industry contain impurities that may be associated with cancer development. Manufacturers refine petrolatum products meant for human application, meaning they have removed these impurities, and the cancer risk associated with using them is minimal.
This is because occlusive moisturizers, such as Aquaphor, can trap bacteria in an open wound and increase the risk of infection. 1. Inside your nostrils. Using Aquaphor inside your nostrils may cause you to accidentally inhale the ointment.
This ingredient creates a barrier on the skin, preventing it from breathing and releasing toxins. This can lead to clogged pores, which can lead to acne and other skin irritations. Additionally, petroleum jelly can also interfere with the skin's natural ability to moisturize itself.
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.
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.
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.