Petroleum jelly, which most people know by the brand name "Vaseline", is a thick, waxy substance that if you look inside the cabinet or medicine box of all families, you will definitely find a sample of it.

Petroleum jelly is one of the most widely used products that people use to treat skin problems. However, using petroleum jelly may have side effects that everyone should be aware of. In today's Digikala Mag article, we will talk about the benefits and side effects of Vaseline, as well as the correct way to use it. Stay with us.

What is petroleum jelly or Vaseline?

Chemists make petroleum jelly from oil. This product has not changed much since Robert Augustus Chesebrough discovered it in 1859. Chesebrough discovered that oil company workers were using a waxy substance to heal their wounds and burns. He finally launched this substance in the form of Vaseline.

Refined petroleum jelly, or pure petroleum jelly, is a mineral petroleum jelly produced by many companies as a general skin care product. In addition, it is one of the most widely used ingredients used in all kinds of lotions, creams and cosmetics.

The difference between pure and refined Vaseline and unrefined Vaseline

The difference between refined and unrefined petroleum jelly lies in the production process of these two products. The use of refined petroleum jelly, which is the result of distillation processes, is considered safe. But unrefined petroleum jelly contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that have been linked to various types of cancer. It also seems that these compounds disrupt the function of endocrine glands and hormones, which can lead to diseases related to fertility and diseases related to the immune system, kidneys, blood, spleen, lungs, liver, fetal development, etc.

In addition to PAHs, unrefined mineral oils are harmful to human health and are listed as carcinogens. Therefore, you should never use unrefined Vaseline. There is not the slightest trace of PAHs and other carcinogens in petroleum jelly that has been properly refined. However, it is better to buy only products manufactured by reputable brands to reduce possible risks.

Benefits of Vaseline

Companies once marketed petroleum jelly as a miracle cure for everything from wrinkles to burns. Although Vaseline cannot cure all skin diseases, it is a versatile and affordable product. The most important benefits of petroleum jelly are:

 

 

Relieves dry skin

Dry skin may itch, crack and even bleed. Since ointments are more effective than lotions, you can use petroleum jelly on dry skin on the lips, eyelids, and other parts of the body.

It is better to apply Vaseline on irritated skin before leaving the house in cold and dry seasons. The skin cannot easily absorb petroleum jelly. This means that Vaseline isn't really a moisturizer, but instead creates a protective layer over the epidermis that keeps the skin hydrated.

 

It is effective in treating diaper rash

Rash or diaper rash is a common skin disease that is usually seen in children under two years of age. This disease causes the areas of the skin that are in contact with the diaper to suffer from abrasion, redness and burning.

The best way to prevent diaper rash is to keep your baby's skin as dry and clean as possible. However, if your child has this problem, apply some Vaseline on the skin every time you change his diaper. Vaseline reduces the risk of diaper rash by creating a moisture barrier on the skin and helps to treat it. With proper care, the rash should disappear within three to four days. Otherwise, see a dermatologist.

It helps to heal damaged skin

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using Vaseline to heal minor wounds, such as cuts and scrapes. This helps to prevent the wound from drying out and getting bigger and prevents it from itching. It also reduces the risk of scarring.

However, a study conducted in 2018 refutes this claim. The researchers of this study found that petroleum jelly can slow the healing process and increase the risk of infection.

Prevents skin abrasion

Chafing is a type of skin irritation caused by friction between skin folds (for example, armpits, groin, etc.) or between skin and inappropriate clothes. This problem is especially annoying for those who have dry skin or suffer from eczema. Using Vaseline in areas prone to wear can prevent this problem.

 

It hydrates the nails

Regular use of Vaseline on nails and cuticles minimizes the brittleness of nails and prevents them from breaking. For best results, apply Vaseline when nails are slightly damp.

Helps control eczema

Eczema is a chronic skin disease that causes irritation, itching and peeling of the skin. A study showed that moisturizing the skin of babies who are at risk of eczema can prevent the problem from spreading. According to this study, Vaseline was more effective and cost-effective than other options.