Petrolatum

Petroleum-Derived
Benefits
ProtectionSofteningUV Protection

What is Petrolatum?

Petrolatum, commonly called petroleum jelly, originates from the refining of crude petroleum into a purified mixture of saturated hydrocarbons. This semi-solid, colorless, odorless substance falls into the emollient and occlusive category in cosmetics. Found in products like lip balms, ointments, and barrier creams, it works by creating a hydrophobic film on the skin's surface. This barrier impedes transepidermal water loss, helping maintain hydration levels without penetrating deeply. It also shields against external aggressors such as wind, cold, and minor irritants. In hair care, it coats strands to reduce friction and enhance smoothness. Highly stable and inert, petrolatum requires careful purification to remove impurities like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons for safe topical use.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-4 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Hair conditioning
Improves softness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction and static; commonly achieved with cationic agents, silicones, oils, or conditioning polymers.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
Skin protecting
Forms a barrier to protect skin from external irritants.
Emollient
Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.
Moisturising
Improves skin hydration and comfort by combining water-binding (humectant) and barrier-supporting (emollient/occlusive) mechanisms to reduce dryness.
Sunscreen agent
Absorbs or reflects UV radiation to protect skin from sun damage.

Benefits

Forms a barrier to shield skin from irritants and environmental stressors.

Softens and smooths skin texture by filling surface irregularities.

Supports moisture retention, promoting comfortable hydration.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with dry or chapped skin seeking barrier support.
People with oily skin due to its occlusive nature.
People with sensitive skin needing protection from irritants.
Individuals prone to clogged pores in humid conditions.
Those requiring softening for rough or cracked areas.
Those preferring non-petroleum-derived ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • Safe for cosmetic use when highly refined and purified.
  • Rated low concern by safety assessments across concentrations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Petrolatum

Is petrolatum comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, making it unlikely to clog pores for most users.

Can petrolatum protect against UV?

It offers minor physical UV blocking as a barrier but is not a replacement for dedicated sunscreens.

Is petrolatum suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, its inert nature makes it gentle and protective for sensitive skin types.