Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Label Check: Petrolatum

This is the 5th installment in my Label Check series, in which I examine a chemical in depth.

Like its name suggests, petrolatum is created from petroleum or crude oil. It's a semisolid mixture of hydrocarbons used as a skin or hair conditioner,  skin protectant, and machinery lubricant. It also absorbs UV rays. One of the most famous petrolatum products is probably petroleum jelly, in petrolatum is the main ingredient. For years, doctors have suggested parents use petrolatum to cure diaper rash for their babies.


Source: http://www.toysrus.com/graphics/product_images/pTRU1-7551287dt.jpg

Petrolatum was originally found at the bottom of oil rigs in the 1800s. However, during refining, all of the carcinogenic products may not be removed. While the brand Vaseline is generally regarded as non-toxic, other brands may not be as trustworthy. 
 
Petrolatum also blocks the pores of your skin. It keeps your skin "moisturized," because it blocks water from being able to escape from your skin. It creates an illusion of moisturization, while really blocking air and water from reaching your skin. The thick barrier of petrolatum also blocks in any dirt on your skin, making it more difficult to clean. 
 
According to the Huffington Post:  
"People suffering from skin conditions like acne and rosacea should stay away from petroleum jelly altogether, since such thick emollients can aggravate those conditions. Those who rub Vaseline on dry, cracked noses to get through a cold might want to think twice, too: If petroleum jelly gets into the lungs, it can cause lipid pneumonia. It won't happen if you apply it once in a while, but Dr. Dattner recommends not making a daily habit of it."
Instead of using Petrolatum, use more natural moisturizers.  I sell Ava Anderson Products and use them myself.



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