Petroleum Jelly For Skin - An Overview

Introduction

Skin is the human body's largest organ, and taking good care of it is essential. It may sometimes look like breaking the bank. The most common inexpensive product found in people’s medicine cabinets is petroleum jelly; it provides skin care for the entire family. This can have multiple benefits, although it should not be used for everything. If someone is acne-prone, they must not apply petroleum jelly directly over the face as it may lead to breakouts in some people.

Petroleum jelly hit the market almost 150 years ago and still stands as a favorite among dermatologists, as it seals water into the skin. It is also suitable for wound healing as it moistens the place that requires healing. This also eases the redness of a new scar and leads to a lower chance of infection. It also does not burn when put on. It has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), remains widely used in cosmetic skincare, and is referred to as mineral oil.

What Is Petroleum Jelly, and How Does It Work on the Skin?

Petroleum jelly is also known as petrolatum, a semi-solid mixture derived from petroleum. It comes with occlusive properties and is obtained from hydrocarbons. It has its uses in various skin care routines. Petroleum jelly forms a protective layer over the skin and works like a barrier. It seals the moisture and prevents water loss, serving as an excellent moisturizer, especially for dry and irritated skin. It protects the skin from external irritants and environmental factors. It forms a skin shield and protects from harsh climates, pollutants, and other irritants. Due to its occlusive properties, it is used in wound care to protect from minor burns, cuts, and scrapes, thereby providing faster healing. This makes it versatile and widely used in skin care products for various skin concerns.

What Are the Benefits of Using Petroleum Jelly on the Skin?

Using petroleum jelly can have various benefits, thus making it a popular choice for skin care. The benefits are:

• Moisturizing: The moisture gets locked, and a barrier is formed. This prevents the loss of moisture and keeps the skin hydrated. Thus, it is effective in treating dry skin.

• Soothing: Petroleum jelly can soothe and calm irritated skin. It’s used to alleviate skin discomfort caused by minor burns.

• Protecting: It offers protection from environmental factors, like wind, cold weather, and pollutants.

• Barrier Function: There is protection from loss of moisture from the skin, thereby making it beneficial for people who present with eczema and psoriasis and maintaining the hydration of the skin, which is crucial.

• Lip Care: Petroleum jelly moisturizes the lips and protects chapped lips.

• Makeup Removal: Gentle and effective makeup removal, particularly for long-lasting and waterproof makeup.

• Hair Care: The dry and damaged hair can be moisturized with the help of petroleum jelly.

Is Petroleum Jelly Safe to Use on the Skin?

Petroleum jelly is considered a safe option for its use over the skin, but it must be used as directed by the physician. It has been in use for several years, causing adverse reactions. A few considerations are:

• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals might be allergic to petroleum jelly. A patch test is necessary before using petroleum jelly, especially for sensitive skin with an allergy.

• Purity: Ensure a high-quality petroleum jelly is used to avoid contaminants and impurities. Always look for labeled pharmaceutical products.

• Wound Care: This can be used for protection against wounds and cuts, but one must consult a skin care specialist before applying for deep skin wounds.

• Avoid Ingestion: Petroleum jelly is used only for external purposes, must not be used for any other purpose, and must not be ingested as there is a risk of ingestion before eating or drinking.

• Clogged Pores: These are seen among those with oily skin and acne-prone skin. People may find it too heavy, and experience clogged pores and breakouts.

Can Petroleum Jelly Be Used on Sensitive Skin or the Face?

Petroleum jelly can be used on sensitive skin as it is hypoallergenic and does not contain ingredients that cause skin irritation. It helps to soothe sensitive areas, such as chapped lips or irritated patches. But be it any skin care product, a patch test is a must to assess its effectiveness on the skin and ensure no side effects over its use. For facial use, people who have oily skin or are acne-prone may find it a little hard to use as it may be heavy or greasy. Petroleum jelly is usually recommended as a thin layer to clean and dry the skin, mainly focusing on dry and irritated areas. Avoid using it in places around the eyes, as it may be too heavy for the areas around the skin and may lead to irritation.

How Should Petroleum Jelly Be Applied for Best Results?

The steps to be followed when applying petroleum jelly include:

• Cleanse the Skin: Clean the skin with a gentle cleanser. Pat it dry with a clean towel. Remove the dirt, oil, and impurities. Prepare the skin so that it can optimally absorb the petroleum jelly.

• Apply a Thin Layer: Take a pea-sized amount of petroleum jelly, spread it between fingers, make it soft, and apply it over the desired skin area. Do not apply too much, apply little to seal moisture and obtain protection.

• Focus on Dry or Irritated Areas: Concentrate the petroleum jelly over the skin that feels dry, irritated, and chapped. Includes elbow, skin, knee, chapped lips, and areas prone to burns.

• Massage Gently: Use a circular motion to massage gently until it is evenly distributed over the skin.

• Reapply as Needed: Reapply depending on the skin's and the environment's needs.

• Avoid Sensitive Areas: Such as eye or open -wounds.

• Use as Part of a Skincare Routine: Incorporate it into one’s daily skincare routine after bathing or showering.

Conclusion:

The use of petroleum jelly must be very appropriate and according to the guidelines provided by the healthcare professional. If there is any concern or adverse effect, its use must be discontinued, and a skin care specialist must be consulted to avoid further complications. It is the most easily and economically available product. This ensures that it does not put an economic burden on the user and can be easily used by people from all strata of society.