Petroleum jelly (also called petrolatum) is a mixture of mineral oils and waxes, which form a semisolid jelly-like substance. This product was discovered by Robert Augustus Chesebrough in 1859 and hasn’t changed since then. Chesebrough noticed that oil workers would use the jelly to heal their wounds and burns. He eventually packaged this jelly as Vaseline.
Petroleum jelly’s benefits come from its main ingredient petroleum, which helps seal your skin with a water-protective barrier. Here are other benefits of using this product especially as the dry season looms:
1. Petroleum jelly heals minor skin scrapes and burns
A study shows that petroleum jelly is effective in keeping skin moist during post-surgery healing. This may be particularly good for regular, less dramatic skin injuries. Ensure that the surface you apply petroleum jelly on is properly cleaned and disinfected. Otherwise, bacteria and other pathogens can get trapped inside and delay the healing process.
2. Moisturise your hands, face and feet
Face and body lotion: Apply petroleum jelly after a shower. As an occlusive moisturizer, it prevents your skin from drying out. You can also use it for dry noses during cold or allergy season. For cracked heels: Soak your feet in warm water with some salt added to them. Towel-dry thoroughly and apply petroleum jelly and clean cotton socks. Improve your gardening hands: After washing and drying, use some petroleum jelly and a clean pair of gloves to help lock in moisture and accelerate healing. For chapped lips, apply to chapped lips as you would any chapstick.
3. It prevents diaper rash
Petroleum jelly has been shown to reduce the incidence of diaper rash in babies. Clean and towel-dry your little one’s skin properly before applying. Petroleum jelly will form a protective barrier that will help protect the skin from constant exposure to moisture. Visit the doctor when there is a persistent rash.
4. It removes eye makeup
Oil is an effective way to remove makeup, and petroleum jelly is safe to use in the eye area, according to a study on eye ultrasounds. Use a cotton pad and press gently without tugging too hard on your skin. Make sure to close your eyes as you wipe. Some people also swear by using it on crow’s feet lines.
5. It saves split ends
Sun and wind exposure as well as pool water can dry up your hair. Petroleum jelly can reduce the look of split ends and add shine to your hair. Rub a small amount of jelly between your palms and apply to hair ends.
6. Petroleum jelly preserves perfume scents
Using petroleum jelly as a base for your perfume can help it last longer.