what is petroleum jelly made of

Petroleum jelly, also known as petrolatum, is a translucent, yellowish to amber or white, a soapy substance derived from petroleum. It is a mixture of natural waxes and mineral oils that together lock moisture in the skin, moisturizing it to repair and relieve dryness. Petroleum jelly is made of hydrocarbons, and manufacturers refine the material into an odorless, semi-solid product. The primary component of petroleum jelly contains different proportions of both solid and liquid hydrocarbons. It is colorless (or of a pale yellow color when not highly distilled), translucent, and devoid of taste and smell when pure. The exact proportions of hydrocarbons in petroleum jelly determine its melting point, which is typically between 40 and 70 °C (105 and 160 °F) . Petroleum jelly’s benefits come from its main ingredient petroleum, which helps seal the skin with a water-protective barrier, preventing moisture loss and chapped hands and lips.