Emollient
Petrolatum
A highly effective, inert occlusive that locks in moisture and protects skin barrier — one of the most studied and reliable barrier-repair ingredients.
occlusivebarrier repairinert
✓ Safe
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5
What is it?
Petrolatum (petroleum jelly) is a purified mixture of mineral hydrocarbons. Cosmetic-grade petrolatum is highly refined and considered one of the most effective and inert occlusive agents available.
Used in barrier-repair balms, healing ointments, and intensive moisturizers for very dry, cracked, or compromised skin.
Key Benefits
Highly effective occlusion
Reduces transepidermal water loss by over 98% in clinical studies — among the most effective occlusives known.
Supports wound healing
Widely used in dermatology to support healing of compromised skin.
Non-irritating and inert
Generally well tolerated, including on broken or highly sensitive skin.
Suitable for
Main Actions
When it may be insufficient
Petrolatum does not add hydration itself — it locks in moisture already present, so it works best applied over a hydrating product, not instead of one.
CategoryEmollients
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Petrolatum do for skin?
Used in barrier-repair balms, healing ointments, and intensive moisturizers for very dry, cracked, or compromised skin.
Who should use Petrolatum?
Petrolatum is suitable for: very dry or cracked skin, compromised or healing skin, all skin types as an occlusive layer.
Are there any warnings about Petrolatum?
Petrolatum does not add hydration itself — it locks in moisture already present, so it works best applied over a hydrating product, not instead of one.
Check if this ingredient works for your skin — analyze your full product formula for free.
Analyze your product