Skincare with Petroleum Jelly

 

What is petroleum jelly?

Petroleum jelly, also known as petrolatum, is a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum. It is a versatile and widely used product known for its moisturizing properties. Often used in skincare, cosmetics, and medical applications, petroleum jelly forms a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss and promoting healing. Its inert nature and lack of irritants make it suitable for various skin-related purposes, such as soothing chapped lips, moisturizing dry skin, and aiding wound healing.

1. Relieve dry skin : Dry skin may peel, itch, break, or even bleed. Because ointments are more effective and less irritating than lotions, use petroleum jelly on dry skin, including your lips and eyelids. The skin of your eyelids is the thinnest on the body and is easily inflamed. If your eyelids get dry and flaky, apply a little dab of petroleum jelly to provide hydration and protection. Apply petroleum jelly on moist skin for optimal effects.

2. Heal injured skin : To keep minor wounds like cuts, scrapes, and scratches wet, apply petroleum jelly. This prevents the wound from drying up and developing a scab, which takes longer to heal. This will also help keep the scar from becoming excessively wide, deep, or itchy. Antibacterial ointments are unnecessary as long as the wound is cleaned daily.

3. Prevent chafing : Chafing is a painful skin irritation caused when body parts rub together or against clothing. Apply petroleum jelly on problematic areas, such as the feet or thighs, to avoid chafing and blister formation.

4. Rehydrate nails : If you get manicures and pedicures frequently, use petroleum jelly to protect your nails and cuticles between finishes. This reduces brittleness and helps keep your nails from chipping. Apply it to moist nails for best results.

While petroleum jelly has several benefits, it should only be used externally. Do not ingest or implant petroleum jelly. Do not use petroleum jelly for masturbation or as a vaginal lubricant. According to Reuters, a study of 141 women discovered that 17% used petroleum jelly internally, and 40% tested positive for bacterial vaginosis.

The brand and type of petroleum jelly you purchase may cause different reactions. These include

• Allergies : Some people are more sensitive to petroleum-derived goods, and using them can cause allergies. When using a new product, be aware of any irritations or unpleasant reactions.

• Infections : Neglecting to allow the skin to dry or to adequately clean the skin before applying petroleum jelly can lead to fungal or bacterial infections. If you enter jelly vaginally from a contaminated jar, you risk spreading bacteria.

• Aspiration risks : Check with your doctor before applying petroleum jelly around the nose, especially in children. Inhaling mineral oils may result in aspiration pneumonia.

• Clogged pores : Some people may experience breakouts after using petroleum jelly. To prevent the possibility of outbreaks, make sure to thoroughly clean the skin before using the jelly.

Vaseline : 

Vaseline can lock in moisture and has some specific benefits and uses for the skin of your face.

Vaseline refers to a popular brand of petroleum jelly. It's a mineral and wax mixture that spreads easily. For almost 140 years, Vaseline has been used as a healing balm and ointment for wounds, burns, and chapped skin.

Petroleum is the primary ingredient in Vaseline. You might be more familiar with other petroleum byproducts, such as kerosene and gasoline. Vaseline, like those products, has a smooth, filmy consistency. But unlike other forms of petroleum, Vaseline is safe to use on your skin and hands. It’s even a favorite for some as a moisturizer.

It’s safe to use Vaseline as a moisturizer for your face, but there are some things you should know if you’re doing this.

Vaseline and your skin :

Vaseline works as an occlusive ingredient. That means that, for the most part, it doesn’t actually add moisture to your face. Vaseline seals existing moisture into your skin. It also protects wounded or irritated skin by generating a seal or barrier wherever it is applied. Petroleum jelly's barrier efficiently decreases moisture loss from the skin. A review of studies found petroleum jelly to be more effective than lanolin, olive, and mineral oils for this purpose.

Vaseline prevents your skin from losing moisture, thus some mixed petroleum jelly products may be more effective at hydrating. Aquaphor, another petroleum jelly product, combines lanolin and ceresin to provide both moisturizing and occlusive properties.

To make the best use of Vaseline’s barrier effect, use it as a makeup remover every night and thoroughly wipe off the excess product. This will, in theory, lock moisture in your skin while you sleep.

Conclusion

Petroleum jelly has long been a staple of the medical and beauty industries due to its emollient characteristics, ability to aid in skin healing, and safety record. To avoid putting hazardous pollutants on your skin, use a triple-distilled, purified product (Vaseline is one example).