The vital benefit of petrolatum is that it improves the skin's barrier function by inhibiting water loss through the skin, called trans-epidermal water loss. Increased trans-epidermal water loss is the key factor that leads to the development of skin conditions such as eczema and chapped lips.
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''.
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.
Vaseline, or petroleum jelly, is highly regarded for skin care due to several beneficial properties: Occlusive Barrier: Vaseline forms a protective barrier on the skin's surface, preventing moisture loss. This occlusive nature helps to keep the skin hydrated, making it particularly effective for dry or chapped areas.
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.
If you don't experience allergic or adverse reactions when you apply Vaseline®, you can use it as frequently as needed to enjoy the benefits of petroleum jelly. Apply the petroleum jelly using your fingertips. Before you apply it, wash your hands and face thoroughly with soap and water.
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.
Petroleum jelly is a mixture of natural waxes and mineral oils that together lock moisture in skin, moisturizing it to repair and relieve dryness.
I've tried 4 of the brands below- Honest, Alba Botanica, Waxelene and Doctor Rogers. They are all great alternatives to Vaseline and Aquaphor. I personally find that Doctor Rogers Healing Balm was the most impressive at soothing very dry lips.
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.
Never use petroleum jelly in or around nostrils, especially on children, says Dr. Parcells. You may end up with a condition called lipid pneumonia, an infection caused by the inhalation of fats. Though rare, it can lead to serious and long-term health problems.
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.
Putting Vaseline into the eye can cause temporary blurred vision. Vaseline is a moisture barrier, and it may prevent certain creams and treatments from penetrating the eyelid or the eye. People using other moisturizers or prescription drops should apply those first, before using Vaseline.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In most cases, your dermatologist will notice warning signs of lip cancer when performing a regular visual examination of the skin. If a concerning spot is found, your dermatologist will often perform a biopsy by removing a small sample of skin from the affected area.