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Petrolatum

Occlusive emollient made of purified hydrocarbons. Reduces transepidermal water loss by nearly 99% and restores the skin barrier after damage.

Evidence by route

B

Topical application

Reference occlusive with a broad clinical base. Dermatology studies show accelerated wound healing and barrier repair in atopic dermatitis and xerosis.

How to read tiers A–F
  • BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations

Tolerability and safety

Irritation potential
Low
Allergen risk
Low
Pregnancy
Safe
Suitable for
Dry, Sensitive, Normal

About this ingredient

Petrolatum (Petroleum Jelly, Vaseline) is a mixture of saturated hydrocarbons from petroleum, refined through multiple stages. At pharmacopoeial grade (USP, EP, Ph. Eur. Pharmaceutical Grade) it is fully stripped of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Mechanism. Occlusive: forms a hydrophobic film on skin that reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by 98–99%. Outperforms any other emollient on this metric (Loden 2003). Does not feed the skin from outside – it holds what is already inside. Where applied. Lip balms, infant diaper-rash products, hand protective creams, nipple-crack creams during lactation, post-procedure creams. In Spanish brands – La Roche-Posay Cicaplast B5, Bioderma Cicabio, ISDIN Nutradeica, classic Vaseline. Evidence base. AAD 2024 and NICE 2024 list petrolatum among first-line therapy for atopic dermatitis, xerosis, and diaper dermatitis. The Cochrane Review 2017 on paediatric atopic dermatitis confirms petrolatum-based emollients reduce SCORAD and prolong remission. After laser procedures and dermabrasion, petrolatum is part of standard care (AAD postoperative protocols). Safety. CIR confirmed pharmacopoeial petrolatum safety at concentrations up to 100%. EU Cosmetics Regulation requires USP/EP purity for cosmetic use. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic (Fulton score 0). No systemic absorption. 2010s controversy. Greenpeace and vegan brands criticised petrolatum as a petroleum product with PAH risk. SCCS 2020 differentiated: technical-grade petrolatum without full refining is carcinogenic (in Annex II EU); pharmacopoeial grade is safe and not classified as carcinogen. Only USP/EP petrolatum is allowed in EU cosmetics. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Drug of choice for cracked nipples during breastfeeding (heals without removal before nursing; safe if the infant ingests small amounts). Suitable on the abdomen for stretch marks and on the face for dryness. Particularly suitable for. Very dry skin, atopic dermatitis, post-procedure recovery, hand protection in healthcare workers and those who work with water, tissue protection after laser resurfacing.

Frequently asked questions

Is Petrolatum safe during pregnancy?

Petrolatum is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.

What skin types is Petrolatum for?

Petrolatum suits: dry, sensitive, normal.

What is Petrolatum and what does it do in cosmetics?

Occlusive emollient made of purified hydrocarbons.

Is Petrolatum comedogenic?

On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.

What's the INCI name for Petrolatum?

The INCI name is Petrolatum. It may also appear as: Petroleum Jelly, Vaseline.

See Petrolatum in a product composition right on the store page

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