Petroleum jelly: A comprehensive review of its history, uses, and safety - PubMed (original) (raw)

Review

. 2024 Apr;90(4):807-813.

doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2023.06.010. Epub 2023 Jun 12.

Affiliations

Review

Petroleum jelly: A comprehensive review of its history, uses, and safety

Payvand Kamrani et al. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2024 Apr.

Abstract

Petrolatum, also known as petroleum jelly, is a widely used topical agent, with a variety of uses in dermatology. Despite its popularity, many myths surround this ubiquitous dermatologic staple. This review details the history of petrolatum and how it is manufactured as well as how its biologic properties make it a great moisturizer. Additionally, data on its potential for flammability, allergenicity, and comedogenicity are detailed, dispelling misconceptions about petrolatum use around oxygen and as a cause of acne. The uses and benefits of petrolatum in dermatology are wide-ranging-a patch test instrument, a vehicle for medicated ointments, and a wound care essential. Given its ubiquitous presence, it is important for dermatologists to understand the history, safety profile, and myths surrounding this humble skincare staple.

Keywords: allergenicity; allergic contact dermatitis; comedogenicity; flammability; flammable; moisturizer; neonatal; oxygen; petrolatum; petroleum jelly; safety; slugging.

Copyright © 2023 American Academy of Dermatology, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

PubMed Disclaimer

Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of interest Payvand Kamrani, Jamie Hendrick, and James G. Marks have no conflicts of interest to disclose. Andrea Zaenglein is an editor-in-chief of Pediatric Dermatology.

Publication types

MeSH terms

Substances

LinkOut - more resources