Moreover, the CDC explains that when chemicals are applied to the skin, they can pass into the bloodstream, where they can cause health problems in other areas of the body. In its natural form, petroleum jelly contains high amounts of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons PAHs.
These chemical compounds occur naturally in crude oil and coal, and one of the largest sources of human exposure is in vehicle exhaust.
Cosmetics are another primary source of hydrocarbon contamination , since many cosmetic products contain petroleum. Hydrocarbons have been shown to accumulate in the body over time, meaning that continued exposure can have cumulative, adverse effects.
Unsafe levels of hydrocarbon exposure were shown to affect the central nervous system, the cardiovascular system, the kidneys, and the gastrointestinal system.
In the same study, researchers outlined the main sources of hydrocarbon exposure as follows: aromatic glues and paints , halogenated refrigeration solvents, insecticides, and herbicides , Terpene turpentine, pine oil, and spray paint , and aliphatic petroleum distillates like asphalt, jet fuel, mineral oil, and yep, you guessed it, petroleum jelly.
Lastly, PAHs are also a known carcinogenic and have been linked to breast cancer. Specifically, petroleum-based products were shown to elevate estrogen levels, which can lead to premature sexual development in people born with female characteristics, and prepubertal gynecomastia development of breast tissue in people with male physical characteristics.
Endocrine disruptors have also been associated with breast cancer , and have been linked to infertility, endometriosis, nervous system disruption, diabetes, learning challenges, and more, according to the Hormone Health Network.
Proponents of petroleum jelly tout that the cosmetic-grade version of the product has been refined multiple times, thereby eliminating PAHs before they reach the shelves. Because petroleum jelly is considered occlusive, which means products that contain it seal the skin in a barrier layer that prevents moisture from evaporating. Petrolatum in drugs, food, and food packaging must meet FDA impurity restrictions. White petroleum jelly is a refined, purified extract of heavy waxes and paraffinic oils, and USP white petroleum jelly has passed the safety standards of the FDA for use in food and cosmetics.
The problem is that not all manufacturers choose to use refined petrolatum or use low-grade refinement processing, and there is the potential for PAHs to still be present.
Eur in Europe , which indicates the grade, where it was refined, and that it meets specific purity standards, and go with trusted brands like Vaseline and Aquaphor. The formula is as simple as it gets, with no additives or fragrances, and is safe to use on eczema and minor injuries.
Another simple, fragrance-free option that's safe to use directly on irritated skin. Kim's other recommendation is fragrance-free and contains gentle, soothing ceramides for an ultra-moisturizing formula. CeraVe is lanolin-free and boasts a seal from the National Eczema Association. Wallo explains that the skin needs moisture to repair itself and considers petroleum jelly to be safe for use in cosmetics.
However, he does share that it's an individual choice and one that consumers can make with the help of their physician and trusted reference sources. In other words, you might need to do some research. It hasn't been definitively proven that petroleum-based products are carcinogenic in humans. However, if you want to avoid petrolatum in your skincare products , be sure to review the ingredients listed.
Up next: Discover the skincare ingredient that is the complexion savior you've never heard of. Postoperative wound care after dermatologic procedures: a comparison of 2 commonly used petrolatum-based ointments. J Drugs Dermatol. Thank you [email] for signing up. Please enter a valid email address. Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for Byrdie. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page. These choices will be signaled globally to our partners and will not affect browsing data.
We and our partners process data to: Actively scan device characteristics for identification. It is essential to read the ingredients label and contact the manufacturer with any questions about the refining and purification process.
Companies once marketed petroleum jelly as a miracle cure for everything from wrinkles to burns. While it cannot heal every skin condition, it is a versatile and affordable skin care option. The skin does not easily absorb petroleum jelly. This means that it is not really a moisturizer, but a barrier that can keep dirt out and prevent moisture loss. People can try applying it to irritated skin before spending time outside in cold, dry, windy air.
People with a cold may apply it under their nose to prevent irritation due to a runny nose or frequent nose-wiping. Chafing, which occurs when skin rubs against another body part or clothing, can be very irritating. This is especially so for people with eczema or dry skin.
Some people develop rashes or broken skin due to chafing. Applying petroleum jelly to areas prone to chafing may help prevent it. Many babies develop diaper rash after sitting in wet diapers. Petroleum jelly creates a moisture barrier that can reduce the risk of diaper rash. The American Academy of Dermatology advise using petroleum jelly to support skin healing. Because petroleum jelly creates a natural barrier, it may prevent infection and reduce the risk of scarring. However, one study disputes this claim.
The researchers found that petroleum jelly could actually prevent the skin from performing its natural protective film, slowing healing and increasing the risk of infection. Peeling skin can be irritating. When skin is so dry that it peels, petroleum jelly can soothe the irritation and help skin heal.
People can try applying it to dry, chapped lips or irritated eyelids during cold weather seasons. A study suggested that petroleum jelly might prevent eczema outbreaks. The study found that frequently moisturizing the skin of newborns at high risk of eczema could prevent outbreaks.
Apply market research to generate audience insights. Measure content performance. Develop and improve products. List of Partners vendors. Share Flipboard Email. Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph. Chemistry Expert. Helmenstine holds a Ph.
She has taught science courses at the high school, college, and graduate levels. Facebook Facebook Twitter Twitter. Updated November 05, Featured Video. Cite this Article Format.
0コメント