Petroleum jelly is a semisolid jelly-like substance made of mineral oils and waxes, which form a water-protective barrier that helps seal the skin and retain moisture. It has been used for years to help with skin moisturizing and healing. The product hasn’t changed much since Robert Augustus Chesebrough discovered it in 1859. Petroleum jelly’s benefits come from its main ingredient petroleum, which helps with skin healing. However, some types of petroleum jelly could contain carcinogenic ingredients, such as Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons (MOHA) and polyaromatics. For safety, it is recommended to only buy triple-distilled products like Vaseline.
Positive:
- Helps with skin moisturizing and healing
- Affordable
Negative:
- Some types could contain carcinogenic ingredients
- Not sustainable or eco-friendly
- Can act as an impermeable barrier to the skin
Ingredients or materials:
- Mineral oils and waxes
- Hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum
- Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) - a toxic chemical that can contaminate petrolatum if not fully refined
