Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum Jelly
Product Description
Product overview
A versatile, 100% pure white petrolatum skin protectant that creates an ultra-effective occlusive barrier to lock in moisture, protect minor cuts and scrapes, relieve chapped or cracked skin, and shield against wind and cold weather. The ultimate no-frills, single-ingredient multitasker for the whole family.
Ultimate Occlusive Barrier
Petrolatum is the most effective occlusive agent known, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by up to 99% to keep skin deeply moisturized.
Texture & feel
SENSORYUltimate Occlusive Barrier
Petrolatum is the most effective occlusive agent known, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by up to 99% to keep skin deeply moisturized.
Wound Healing Support
FDA-approved skin protectant that temporarily protects minor cuts, scrapes, and burns while keeping the area moisturized for faster healing.
Whole Family Safe
Hypoallergenic and suitable for all ages including infants. Commonly used for diaper rash prevention and as a gentle lip and skin protectant.
Cold Weather Protection
Creates a physical shield against harsh wind and cold that cause chapping, cracking, and dryness on exposed skin areas like lips, hands, and face.
Safety & compatibility
SAFERefined white petrolatum USP is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Also used to soothe cracked nipples while nursing.
While petroleum jelly does not directly feed Malassezia yeast, its highly occlusive nature can create a warm, moist environment that may slowly promote yeast growth. Those prone to fungal acne should use sparingly on affected areas.
Despite its thick texture, petrolatum has a comedogenic rating of 0. Its molecules are too large to penetrate and clog pores. Vaseline's own research confirms it does not cause acne.
Contains zero fragrances, preservatives, dyes, or common allergens. Recommended by dermatologists for eczema management and barrier repair. Rated hypoallergenic by SkinSAFE.
Petroleum jelly is chemically inert and does not react with other active ingredients. It can be layered over active treatments to enhance penetration and reduce irritation (slugging method).
Do not use on deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns. Avoid getting into eyes. Avoid inhaling near nostrils. Consult a doctor if condition lasts more than 7 days.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWhite Petrolatum USP 100%Proven
The sole active ingredient. White petrolatum is the gold standard of occlusive moisturizers. It is a semi-solid mixture of highly refined saturated hydrocarbons (C18-90+ chain length) that sits on the skin's surface and prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) more effectively than any other known ingredient.
- Occlusivity: Reduces TEWL by up to 99%, far surpassing plant oils and mineral oil
- FDA Status: Approved as an over-the-counter (OTC) skin protectant at concentrations of 30-100%
- Safety: EWG rates it LOW concern for cancer, allergies, immunotoxicity, and developmental toxicity
- Mechanism: Forms a hydrophobic barrier on the skin that locks in existing moisture without penetrating deep into the skin
- Heritage: Used safely in dermatology and cosmetics for over 150 years since 1872
1 ingredient
White Petrolatum USP (100%)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the very last step in your routine (after moisturizer) to seal everything in. Best used at night for the "slugging" technique. In the morning, follow with sunscreen if going outdoors.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep Skin
Wash your face or body area with a gentle cleanser. Pat skin dry with a clean towel, leaving it slightly damp for best results.
Apply Serums & Moisturizer First
Layer any active serums (retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid) and your regular moisturizer. Wait about 1 minute for them to absorb.
Scoop & Warm Petroleum Jelly
Take a pea-sized amount (for face) or a nickel-sized amount (for body areas) and warm it between your fingertips to soften the jelly.
Pat & Press Into Skin
Gently pat and press the jelly onto skin in a thin, even layer. Do not rub aggressively. Focus on dry patches, lips, cuticles, elbows, or heels as needed.
Leave Overnight (Slugging)
For the slugging technique, apply to your face at night and sleep with it on. Place a towel on your pillow if concerned about transfer. Wash off in the morning with your cleanser.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, cracked, or chapped skin that needs intense moisture
- You want a single-ingredient, hypoallergenic skin protectant
- You practice "slugging" to seal in your nighttime skincare
- You need an affordable multi-purpose product for the whole family
- You have sensitive skin, eczema, or dermatitis
- You want to protect skin from harsh winter weather
- You need wound care for minor cuts, scrapes, and burns
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very oily or acne-prone skin (especially on the face)
- You are prone to fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer lightweight, fast-absorbing moisturizers
- You dislike the greasy, heavy feel of occlusive products
- You want anti-aging active ingredients (retinol, peptides, etc.)
- You prefer plant-based or petroleum-free skincare
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe gold standard for dry skin. Locks in moisture better than any other ingredient, preventing up to 99% of water loss. Ideal for cracked heels, elbows, and severely dehydrated patches.
Single-ingredient formula with zero allergens, fragrances, or irritants. Dermatologist-recommended for eczema, contact dermatitis, and post-procedure skin protection.
Great as an occasional overnight treatment or targeted use on lips, cuticles, and dry patches. May feel too heavy for everyday full-face application.
Although non-comedogenic, the heavy occlusive barrier can trap excess sebum, sweat, and bacteria. Best limited to non-facial areas or lips only for oily skin types.
Technically non-comedogenic (rating 0), but the AAD advises caution on acne-prone faces. The occlusive seal can trap bacteria and oil. Use on body or lips only if breakout-prone.
Results timeline
1+ MONTHInstant Moisture Barrier
Creates a protective, glossy seal on the skin the moment it is applied. Chapped lips and dry patches feel immediately smoother and less tight.
95% noticed instant reliefCracked Skin Recovery
Severely dry, cracked, or chapped skin begins to soften and heal. Flaking and peeling are noticeably reduced. Lips feel plump and hydrated.
85% noticed softer skinBarrier Repair & Deep Healing
With consistent nightly use (slugging), the skin barrier strengthens. Redness and irritation from eczema or dermatitis are visibly reduced. Rough patches on elbows and heels smooth out.
75% noticed significant improvementLong-Term Skin Protection
Ongoing use maintains a healthy, resilient skin barrier. Skin retains moisture more efficiently on its own. Ideal for continuous cold-weather or post-procedure protection.
80% reported sustained hydrationRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Unbeatable value — typically under $2.50 for a 13 oz jar at Walmart
- 100% pure, single-ingredient formula with zero allergens or irritants
- The most effective occlusive moisturizer scientifically available
- Extremely versatile — lips, face, body, nails, hair, wound care, diaper rash
- Identical formulation to Vaseline at a fraction of the price
- HSA/FSA eligible for tax-free purchase
- Safe for all ages including newborns
- Long shelf life with no risk of ingredient degradation
Criticized
- Very greasy, heavy feel — not suitable for daytime facial use
- Jar packaging is not hygienic (finger-dipping introduces bacteria)
- Some jars shipped without safety seals
- Not a standalone moisturizer — only locks in existing moisture
- Can stain fabrics, pillowcases, and clothing
- Not suitable for oily/acne-prone skin on the face
- Petroleum-derived ingredient may concern eco-conscious consumers
- No flip-top lid option — screw-on jar can be messy
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Identical active ingredient (100% white petrolatum) with Vaseline's triple-purification seal. Same performance, same results — only the brand name and price differ. Equate is the direct Walmart store-brand equivalent.
Another generic 100% pure white petrolatum USP jar. Very similar in quality and texture. Slightly less widely available but offers great value as a pharmacy-grade alternative.
Target's store-brand petroleum jelly with 100% pure petrolatum. Same active ingredient and similar jar packaging. A convenient option if you shop at Target instead of Walmart.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
STORAGE36+ months after opening. Petroleum jelly is extremely stable and does not oxidize, go rancid, or degrade over time due to its inert hydrocarbon chemistry.
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration needed. Avoid exposure to extreme heat which may cause the jelly to soften or liquefy.
Resealable screw-top plastic jar. Use a clean spatula or spoon to maintain hygiene — avoid repeated finger-dipping to prevent bacterial contamination.
The 3.75 oz size is under the TSA 3.4 oz liquid limit and travel-ready. The 13 oz jar is not carry-on friendly but can go in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Refined white petrolatum USP (the sole ingredient in Equate Petroleum Jelly) is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged for reproductive concerns. It is even commonly used by nursing mothers to soothe cracked nipples. Always use fully refined, USP-grade petroleum jelly to ensure it is free of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
Use with caution. While petroleum jelly itself does not directly feed Malassezia yeast and does not contain fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that typically trigger fungal acne, research indicates that mineral oil and petroleum-based products can slowly promote the growth of M. furfur by creating a warm, moist, occlusive environment. If you are prone to fungal acne, it is best to avoid using petroleum jelly on affected areas, particularly the face and upper body.
Yes. Petroleum jelly is chemically inert, meaning it does not react with or deactivate other skincare actives. In fact, many dermatologists recommend applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly over retinol or other potentially irritating actives to buffer their effects and reduce dryness and flaking. This "slugging" technique can enhance moisture retention while your actives work overnight. Apply your active ingredients first, wait a few minutes, then seal with petroleum jelly.
Equate Petroleum Jelly is best suited for dry, very dry, and sensitive skin types. It excels at locking in moisture and protecting compromised or cracked skin barriers. It is also excellent for eczema-prone and normal skin. Those with oily or acne-prone skin should use it sparingly and only on non-facial areas (lips, hands, cuticles, heels) to avoid trapping excess sebum under the occlusive barrier.
Petroleum jelly provides immediate relief the moment it is applied — you will feel instant smoothness and reduced tightness on dry skin. Chapped lips and cracked skin typically begin healing within 1-3 days of consistent use. Significant barrier repair from regular nightly slugging is usually noticed within 1-2 weeks. It is not an anti-aging product and does not treat underlying skin conditions, but it is one of the fastest-acting products for moisture retention.
Petroleum jelly should always be the very last step in your skincare routine, after cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer. Because it is a pure occlusive, it creates a barrier that prevents anything applied after it from penetrating the skin. At night, apply it as a final seal over all your other products. In the morning, if using on the face, cleanse it off before applying sunscreen and makeup.
No. Petroleum jelly has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5, making it officially non-comedogenic. Its molecules are too large to penetrate and block pores. However, because it is highly occlusive, it can trap existing dirt, sweat, and bacteria against the skin, which may contribute to breakouts in acne-prone individuals. The American Academy of Dermatology advises against using petroleum jelly on acne-prone facial skin. Always apply to clean skin for best results.
Petroleum jelly has an exceptionally long shelf life. Because it is a pure hydrocarbon mixture, it does not oxidize, go rancid, or support microbial growth on its own. An opened jar can last 3+ years without losing effectiveness. However, for hygienic reasons (especially with a jar where fingers are dipped in repeatedly), it is recommended to use within 24-36 months of opening, or use a clean spatula to avoid introducing bacteria into the jar.
Verdict: Equate Petroleum Jelly is the ultimate no-frills skin protectant — a single-ingredient, pharmacy-grade product that delivers exactly what it promises at an unbeatable price. With 100% white petrolatum USP, it is clinically the most effective occlusive moisturizer available, making it indispensable for dry skin, chapped lips, wound protection, and the popular "slugging" technique. It performs identically to name-brand Vaseline at roughly half the cost. While not suitable for oily or acne-prone facial skin, and not the most elegant product texturally, its versatility, safety profile (pregnancy-safe, hypoallergenic, HSA/FSA eligible), and incredible value make it a medicine cabinet essential for virtually every household.
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
|
|