Petrolatum
Also known as: Petroleum Jelly, Vaseline, White Petrolatum
Description
Petrolatum is the gold standard occlusive agent in dermatology, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by over 98% — the most effective of any topical moisturizing ingredient. A semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum refining, it has been used therapeutically for over 150 years. Petrolatum does not merely sit on the skin surface; it penetrates into the intercellular lipid domain of the stratum corneum, where it aids barrier repair by integrating with endogenous lipids. It is FDA-approved as a Category I skin protectant at concentrations of 30–100%.
Mechanism of Action
Petrolatum creates a hydrophobic occlusive layer that dramatically reduces TEWL, trapping moisture within the stratum corneum. Uniquely, it also penetrates into the intercellular spaces of the upper stratum corneum layers, supplementing and reorganizing the lipid lamellae. This dual action — surface occlusion and intercellular lipid integration — accelerates barrier recovery. Petrolatum has been shown to upregulate antimicrobial peptide expression and support the skin's innate immune barrier. It does not interfere with normal desquamation or occlude eccrine glands.
Indications
- Atopic dermatitis / eczema
- Xerosis / severe dry skin
- Contact dermatitis management
- Wound healing and post-surgical care
- Diaper dermatitis
- Psoriasis adjunct
- Chapped or cracked skin
- Barrier protection for occupational dermatoses
Available Concentrations
Side Effects
- Greasy texture and aesthetic concerns
- Folliculitis (rare, primarily with comedogenic-grade petrolatum)
- Allergic contact dermatitis (exceedingly rare with USP-grade white petrolatum)
- May stain clothing and fabrics
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity (extremely rare with purified USP-grade)
- Fresh deep burns (may trap heat)
- Application over topical medications where occlusion is not desired
Pregnancy Category
Not classified (safe for use during pregnancy)