Product Description
Product overview
A classic Scandinavian petroleum jelly that creates an ultra-protective barrier to lock in moisture, heal dry and cracked skin, protect minor cuts and burns, and shield against windburn and harsh weather. Triple-purified for guaranteed purity with just one simple ingredient.
99% Water Loss Prevention
Creates an ultra-protective occlusive barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss, keeping skin hydrated from within.
Texture & feel
SENSORY99% Water Loss Prevention
Creates an ultra-protective occlusive barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss, keeping skin hydrated from within.
Triple-Purified Formula
Undergoes three purification processes to remove impurities, guaranteeing 100% pure, pharmaceutical-grade petrolatum.
Cold Weather Protection
Shields skin from windburn, chapping, and harsh Scandinavian weather conditions. Perfect for outdoor protection.
Wound Healing Support
Creates optimal moist healing environment for minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. Reduces scarring potential.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEPure, refined petrolatum is considered safe during pregnancy. FDA-approved skin protectant with no known reproductive concerns when properly refined.
Low risk for nursing mothers. Petrolatum is not absorbed systemically through skin and poses minimal transfer risk to infants.
While petrolatum has a comedogenic rating of 0, its occlusive nature may create conditions that allow Malassezia yeast to thrive. Use sparingly if prone to fungal acne.
Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. Contains no dyes, perfumes, or common allergens. National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPetrolatum (White Petroleum Jelly) 100%Proven
A semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum, triple-purified to pharmaceutical grade. The gold standard occlusive ingredient that has protected skin since 1870.
- Mechanism: Forms a hydrophobic barrier on skin surface, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by up to 99%
- FDA Status: Category I approved OTC skin protectant (50-100% concentration)
- Clinical Evidence: Dermatologist recommended for over 150 years; accelerates wound healing by maintaining moist environment
- Safety Profile: CIR Expert Panel rated safe as used in cosmetics; comedogenic rating of 0
1 ingredient
Petrolatum
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final step to seal in all previous skincare layers. Best applied to slightly damp skin for maximum hydration lock. Can be used as a targeted treatment on dry patches anytime.
How to use
HOW TO USEPrep Your Skin
Complete your regular skincare routine. For best results, apply while skin is still slightly damp to lock in maximum moisture.
Scoop a Small Amount
Using clean fingertips, take a pea-sized amount. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Warm Between Fingers
Rub between fingertips to warm and soften the jelly for easier application and better spreadability.
Apply to Target Areas
Gently pat onto dry areas: lips, cuticles, elbows, heels, or use as an all-over face occlusive for slugging. Can also apply to minor cuts and burns.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have severely dry, cracked, or chapped skin
- You want intense overnight moisture (slugging)
- You need protection from cold, wind, or harsh weather
- You're healing minor cuts, scrapes, or burns
- You have eczema or extremely sensitive skin
- You want a simple, single-ingredient product
- You're looking for lip care and cuticle treatment
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer lightweight, fast-absorbing textures
- You dislike greasy or occlusive finishes
- You want active ingredients (vitamin C, retinol, etc.)
- You have very oily skin and don't want added shine
- You're looking for daytime wear under makeup
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe ultimate solution for dry skin. Creates an impenetrable moisture barrier that heals cracked, flaky skin overnight.
Use sparingly on targeted dry patches only. Full-face application may feel too heavy and greasy for oily skin types.
Excellent for dry zones (cheeks, around mouth) while avoiding oily T-zone. Perfect for targeted treatment approach.
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula with National Eczema Association approval. Minimal ingredients mean minimal irritation risk.
Non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) but use caution if prone to fungal acne. Great for healing post-acne dryness.
Results timeline
2-4 WEEKSInstant Barrier Protection
Creates protective occlusive layer immediately upon application. Lips and dry patches feel instantly soothed and protected.
100% notice immediate protectionIntense Hydration Boost
Wake up to visibly softer, more supple skin. Dry patches appear plumper and less flaky after one night of slugging.
95% report softer skinCracked Skin Healing
Chapped lips, cracked heels, and rough patches show significant improvement. Minor cuts and burns begin healing faster.
90% see visible healingRestored Skin Barrier
Consistent use helps strengthen and repair compromised skin barrier. Skin retains moisture better even without product.
85% report improved barrierRatings by platform
85K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Single, pure ingredient - no fillers or additives
- Triple-purified for pharmaceutical-grade purity
- Incredibly effective moisture barrier (99% TEWL reduction)
- Versatile uses: lips, skin, minor wounds, baby care
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Eczema Association approved
- Very affordable and long-lasting
- 150+ years of proven safety record
Criticized
- Greasy, heavy texture not for everyone
- May not be ideal for fungal acne-prone skin
- Does not absorb - sits on skin surface
- Can transfer onto pillowcases and clothes
- Not a treatment - only protective/occlusive
- Petroleum-based may concern eco-conscious users
- Jar packaging less hygienic than tubes
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Essentially identical formula - same 100% pure petrolatum, same triple-purification. The US version of the Scandinavian classic. Widely available everywhere.
Petrolatum-based but adds ceramides and hyaluronic acid for extra barrier repair. Less greasy feel, more skincare benefits. Better for compromised skin barriers.
Contains 41% petrolatum plus panthenol, glycerin, and lanolin alcohol. More emollient and slightly less occlusive. Note: contains lanolin - avoid if allergic.
Different formula with shea butter and panthenol base. Less occlusive but more cosmetically elegant. Better for daily use under makeup.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
36 MONTHS36 months after opening - petrolatum has exceptional stability and does not oxidize or become rancid
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme heat which may cause separation. Keep lid tightly closed.
Classic glass or plastic jar with screw-top lid. Consider using a small spatula for hygienic dispensing.
Yes, 40g size is under 100ml/3.4oz TSA limit. Compact size perfect for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, pure refined petrolatum like Kløver Vaseline is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It's an FDA-approved skin protectant that has been used safely for over 150 years. The triple-purification process removes potential contaminants. Petrolatum is not absorbed systemically through the skin, so it poses minimal risk. However, always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Use with caution. While petrolatum has a comedogenic rating of 0 and doesn't directly feed Malassezia yeast, its occlusive nature creates a warm, moist environment that may allow the yeast to thrive. If you're prone to fungal acne, limit use to targeted areas like lips or dry patches, avoid full-face application, and use sparingly (a few times per week rather than daily). Some fungal acne sufferers use it successfully for slugging, while others find it aggravates their condition.
Yes, but with strategic timing. Apply your active ingredients (retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs) first and allow them to absorb for 10-20 minutes before applying Vaseline as the final occlusive step. The petrolatum will seal in these actives and enhance their penetration. Some people use the "sandwich method" - applying Vaseline before and after retinol to buffer irritation. Note: Using Vaseline over strong actives may intensify their effects, so start slowly.
Kløver Vaseline is excellent for dry to very dry skin, sensitive skin, eczema-prone skin, and anyone needing intense moisture barrier protection. It's particularly beneficial for: chapped lips, cracked heels, dry cuticles, windburned skin, post-procedure healing, and overnight slugging. Those with oily skin can still use it on targeted dry areas. Combination skin types should apply only to dry zones.
Results are almost immediate for protection - you'll feel the barrier effect right away. For healing dry, cracked skin: expect softer skin overnight, visible improvement in chapped areas within 3-7 days, and significant healing of severely dry patches within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. Minor cuts and burns typically show accelerated healing within the first week when kept protected with a thin layer of petrolatum.
Always apply Kløver Vaseline as the LAST step in your skincare routine (before sunscreen in the morning if using during day). The order should be: Cleanser → Toner → Serums → Treatments → Moisturizer → Kløver Vaseline. The petrolatum creates an occlusive seal that traps everything underneath, so applying it earlier would prevent other products from penetrating. For best results, apply to slightly damp skin.
No, pure petrolatum has a comedogenic rating of 0/5, meaning it is non-comedogenic and will not clog pores. Despite its thick, occlusive texture, the molecular structure of petrolatum is too large to penetrate pores. It sits on the skin surface creating a protective barrier rather than absorbing into follicles. This is why dermatologists have recommended it for all skin types, including acne-prone skin, for over 150 years.
Kløver Vaseline has an exceptionally long shelf life of approximately 36 months (3 years) after opening. Petrolatum is chemically inert and does not oxidize, become rancid, or support bacterial growth like oils and creams can. For hygiene purposes, use a clean spatula or spoon to dispense product rather than fingers. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Verdict: Kløver Vaseline is a timeless Scandinavian classic that delivers exactly what it promises - pure, effective skin protection. With its single-ingredient formula of triple-purified petrolatum, it offers unmatched occlusive power for severely dry skin, cracked lips, and protective healing. While the greasy texture and limited functionality (protection only, no treatment benefits) may not suit everyone, those seeking a simple, proven solution for moisture barrier repair will find this an essential staple. The comedogenic rating of 0, pregnancy safety, and eczema approval make it suitable for most skin types. A must-have for harsh weather protection and overnight slugging enthusiasts.
Browse related
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 |
Petrolatum
Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Uv Absorber, Moisturising, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|