Petrolatum, also known as petroleum jelly, is a purified, highly refined ingredient used in skincare for its occlusive properties—it forms a breathable barrier on the skin, preventing water loss while allowing normal skin function.

A common concern is its origin. Since petrolatum is derived from crude oil, some assume it retains harmful impurities. However, cosmetic-grade petrolatum undergoes an extensive purification process, meeting strict regulatory standards set by global health authorities, including:

• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• The European Pharmacopoeia (considered the highest standard for cosmetic safety)
• The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)

These stringent refinements ensure that petrolatum used in skincare is free from harmful contaminants and completely safe for topical use.

A widespread myth suggests that petrolatum is comedogenic—meaning it clogs pores. However, scientific research and dermatologists confirm that highly refined petrolatum is non-comedogenic.

Unlike some heavier plant-based oils, petrolatum molecules are too large to penetrate pores deeply. Instead, they sit on the surface of the skin, forming a protective shield without blocking sebum or bacteria inside. This is why it is frequently recommended for sensitive, dry, and compromised skin.

Petrolatum is widely used in dermatology because of its barrier-restoring and healing properties. It has been clinically proven to:

• Prevent Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL): It locks in moisture, keeping skin hydrated and resilient.
• Support Wound Healing: Used in hospitals for burns, post-procedure recovery, and even on premature babies’ skin.
• Soothe Irritated Skin:Ideal for eczema, dry patches, and compromised skin barriers.

Dermatologists continue to trust petrolatum because it is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and less likely to cause irritation compared to many botanical extracts and essential oils.

For all the petrolatum hate in mainstream beauty discourse, dermatologists swear by it.

It’s a staple in treating eczema, burns, post-procedure healing, and severe dryness. It’s hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and has a lower likelihood of causing irritation than many “natural” ingredients.

Still sceptical? Consider this:

• The American Academy of Dermatology recommends petrolatum as one of the safest and most effective moisturisers.
• It’s used in hospitals to treat premature babies’ skin.
• It’s been a NASA-approved ingredient in astronaut skincare to combat extreme dryness in space.