Petrolatum
INCI: Petrolatum
Also known as: Petroleum jelly, Vaseline
EmollientsemollientsyntheticStrong evidencePregnancy safe
88
Skinlumis Rating
Comedogenic
0/5
Irritancy
0/5
Best applied
PM
Effective range
1%–100%
How It Works
The single most effective occlusive ingredient known. Reduces TEWL by 99%, gold standard for compromised barriers.
Forms an inert hydrophobic film that physically blocks water loss from the stratum corneum.
pH Range
5.0–7.0
Benefits
- Best-in-class occlusion
- Reduces TEWL 99%
- Non-irritating
- Accelerates wound healing
Proven For
What the evidence supports.
Severe drynessWound healingEczemaCompromised barrier
Best For
- All skin types
Avoid If
- Strong personal preference against mineral-derived ingredients
Layering Order
9/10
Final occlusive/SPF layer.
Max Safe Concentration
100%
Concentration range in well-formulated products: 1%–100%
Seasonal Use
Winter slugging hero.
Nutrition Connection
-
Skin Signals When You Need It
- Severe TEWL
For Estheticians & Professionals
USP-grade petrolatum is the safest occlusive available. Use in 'slug' final step.
Notable Research
- Ghadially et al. 1992, petrolatum penetrates between corneocytes, accelerating barrier recovery
Clinical Evidence
The research behind Petrolatum.
Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.
Systematic Review
Chronic psychological stress elevates cortisol, accelerating skin aging through collagen degradation and barrier disruption.
Chen Y, Lyga J
Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets, 2014
View Study →Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets, 2014
Randomized Controlled Trial
Nano-hyaluronic acid significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity after 8 weeks.
Jegasothy SM, Zabolotniaia V, Bielfeldt S
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2014
View Study →Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2014
Randomized Controlled Trial
Ceramide-dominant emollients improved skin barrier function by 63% within 6 weeks.
Draelos ZD, Ertel K, Berge C
Cutis, 2006
View Study →Cutis, 2006
Systematic Review
Vitamin D deficiency significantly associated with acne vulgaris, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
Mostafa WZ, Hegazy RA
Journal of Advanced Research, 2015
View Study →Journal of Advanced Research, 2015
Pairs Well With
Conflicts With
No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.
Your Skin Compatibility
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