Petroleum jelly in skincare
A semi-solid, refined lipid, also known as petrolatum.
What is petroleum jelly?
A semi-solid, refined lipid, also known as petrolatum. On the ingredient list, you can find the name Petrolatum. The dictionary uses both the common name and the INCI name, so you can compare the explanation with the packaging.
What does petroleum jelly do for skin and the product?
Forms a film that effectively helps limit water loss.
Moisture-retaining ingredients form a film on the surface that limits water loss. This differs from binding water with ingredients such as glycerin. The film's properties depend on the formulation.
Petroleum jelly is not a humectant. It helps retain moisture and is therefore relevant in moisturising care.
How to read the ingredient list
Look at the product's purpose and overall composition. Position on the list does not tell you the exact concentration used or how your skin will react. One substance can serve several purposes in the same product.
Questions about petroleum jelly
What does petroleum jelly do in skincare?
Forms a film that effectively helps limit water loss.
What should I know about petroleum jelly?
Petroleum jelly is not a humectant. It helps retain moisture and is therefore relevant in moisturising care.
Related ingredients
About sources and ingredient names
The European Commission's CosIng database is a reference for cosmetic ingredient names and functions. An entry does not constitute approval of all uses or evidence of a particular product effect.
DermNet: functions of moisturising care · DermNet: cosmetic formulations