Petrolatum

Also known as: Petroleum jelly, white soft paraffin

INCI name: Petrolatum

What it does

A highly purified blend of hydrocarbons that sits on the skin as an occlusive seal — one of the most effective ways known to stop water evaporating from the skin.

Benefits

Slows water loss more than almost any other common moisturising ingredient, and studies show the barrier's own lipids recover faster underneath it. Gentle enough for eczema-prone and freshly treated skin.

Concerns & Risks

Cosmetic-grade petrolatum is highly refined and has an excellent safety record; allergy is very rare. The contamination worries sometimes raised online concern unrefined grades, not those used in skincare. It can feel greasy.

Comedogenic rating

0/5

Non-comedogenic (0)

Suitable for

Dry, very dry, eczema-prone and barrier-damaged skin

Avoid if

You dislike a greasy finish, or your skin is very oily

Typical concentration

1–10% in creams; up to 100% in ointments

Products containing Petrolatum

2 products in our database