Skin Utility Ointment Multi-Purpose Skin Protectant
Skin Utility Ointment Multi-Purpose Skin Protectant
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-developed, mid-weight multi-purpose skin protectant ointment that moisturizes, restores the skin barrier, and protects dry, chapped, cracked, and irritated skin. Formulated with 45% USP petrolatum, a proprietary shielding polymer, and α-bisabolol for comfortable, effective occlusion without the heavy, greasy feel of traditional petroleum jelly products.
Barrier Protection
45% USP petrolatum creates a semi-permeable barrier to reduce TEWL by up to 99% while still allowing skin to breathe.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBarrier Protection
45% USP petrolatum creates a semi-permeable barrier to reduce TEWL by up to 99% while still allowing skin to breathe.
Soothing Complex
Alpha-bisabolol from chamomile provides anti-inflammatory and calming benefits for irritated, compromised skin.
Shielding Polymer
Natural shielding polymer creates a breathable, flexible film that protects from pollutants and irritating substances.
Barrier Support Complex
Ceramide, phytosterols, and bisabolol work synergistically to enhance skin recovery and restore moisture barrier.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains petrolatum and mineral oil which may feed Malassezia yeast. While the formula is simple, those with active fungal acne may want to patch test first.
Hypoallergenic, allergy tested, and carries the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
Laboratory tested to not clog pores. Dimethicone creates a breathable film that allows skin to function normally.
While fragrance-free and gluten-free, this product contains soy-derived ingredients. Those with soy allergies should consult a dermatologist.
FDA-regulated OTC skin protectant safe for minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. Often recommended post-procedure by dermatologists.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPetrolatum 45%Proven
The gold standard occlusive ingredient. USP-grade petrolatum is highly refined and creates a protective barrier that reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by up to 99% - more effective than any other occlusive ingredient.
- Mechanism: Forms semi-permeable barrier allowing oxygen flow while preventing moisture loss
- Clinical Use: Recommended by dermatologists post-procedure to minimize scarring and infection
- Safety: Over 100 years of safe use; USP grade removes any carcinogenic concerns
α-Bisabolol (Alpha-Bisabolol)Proven
The most active isomeric form of bisabolol, derived from chamomile through fermentation of plant sugars. Known for potent anti-inflammatory, soothing, and anti-erythema (redness-reducing) properties.
- Source: High-purity biosynthetic form with lowest farnesol content
- Benefits: Calms irritation, reduces oxidative damage, restores skin comfort
- Studies: Demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in clinical research
DimethiconeProven
A silicone-based occlusive that enhances the slip and aesthetics of the formula. Creates a porous, breathable film that minimizes water loss while allowing skin to function normally.
- Function: Semi-permeable occlusive agent and texture enhancer
- Benefits: Non-comedogenic, fills fine lines temporarily, used in scar treatment
- Aesthetics: Reduces greasy feel typical of petrolatum-only products
Cetylhydroxyproline PalmitamidePromising
A pseudo-ceramide similar to Ceramide 2 in structure and activity. Part of the Skin Barrier Support Complex that helps restore and maintain the skin's natural protective barrier.
- Type: Synthetic ceramide-like lipid
- Function: Reinforces skin barrier, prevents moisture loss
- Synergy: Works with phytosterols and bisabolol for enhanced recovery
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)Proven
Pure form of Vitamin E providing antioxidant protection. Helps protect skin from free radical damage and provides photoprotection against UVB rays.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin protectant, lipid barrier support
- Benefits: Reduces oxidative stress, supports skin healing
- Synergy: Works in combination with other antioxidants
15 ingredients
Active Ingredient: Petrolatum 45%
Inactive Ingredients: Paraffinum Liquidum, Ozokerite, Dimethicone, Brassica Campestris/Aleurites Fordi Oil Copolymer, Bisabolol, Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide, Oryza Sativa Bran Extract, Helianthus Annuus Extract, Tocopherol, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract, Stearic Acid, Brassica Campestris Sterols, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hexyldecanol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the LAST step in your skincare routine due to its occlusive nature. It seals in all previous products. Skip sunscreen step at night.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Complete Your Routine
Start with clean skin and apply all other skincare products (toner, serum, moisturizer) first.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Take a small amount onto fingertips. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Warm & Pat Into Skin
Warm between fingers and gently pat onto face, focusing on dry patches, or apply all over for "slugging."
Use on Problem Areas
Can be used on lips, hands, elbows, heels, minor cuts, scrapes, and burns as needed throughout the day.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, cracked, chapped, or irritated skin
- You want to try "slugging" for intense overnight hydration
- You have eczema or psoriasis-prone skin
- You need post-procedure wound care
- Your skin barrier is compromised from retinoids or acids
- You want a less greasy alternative to plain Vaseline
- You need multi-purpose protection for face, lips, and body
- You're looking for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic options
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (petrolatum may feed yeast)
- You prefer completely oil-free products
- You have a soy allergy
- You want a daytime product (can be shiny)
- You dislike any occlusive sensation
- You're looking for active treatment ingredients
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal choice. Locks in moisture intensely and repairs cracked, flaky skin. Perfect for slugging.
Use sparingly on dry patches only. May feel too heavy for all-over application. Best as spot treatment.
Apply to dry areas only (cheeks, around nose). Avoid T-zone if oily. Great for targeted repair.
NEA Seal of Acceptance. Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free. Calms irritation with bisabolol.
Non-comedogenic tested. Safe for most, but those with fungal acne should patch test first.
Excellent for aging skin needing barrier support. Temporarily plumps fine lines with occlusion.
Results timeline
4+ WEEKSInstant Relief & Comfort
Immediate soothing sensation. Dry, tight skin feels comfortable and protected. Creates visible occlusive layer.
95% noticedReduced Flaking & Roughness
Cracked lips and dry patches begin to heal. Skin texture improves noticeably. Less visible flaking.
88% noticedBarrier Restoration
Compromised skin barrier shows significant improvement. Reduced sensitivity and reactivity to other products.
82% noticedSustained Skin Health
Ongoing use maintains healthy, resilient skin barrier. Fewer flare-ups for eczema and psoriasis-prone skin.
78% noticedRatings by platform
880+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Less greasy feel than traditional petroleum jelly
- NEA Seal of Acceptance for eczema-prone skin
- Dermatologist-developed with proven ingredients
- Multi-purpose: face, lips, hands, body, minor wounds
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic tested despite being occlusive
- TSA-friendly 2oz travel size
- Absorbs better than expected for an ointment
- Effective for post-retinol dryness recovery
Criticized
- Higher price point than drugstore alternatives
- Only available in 2oz size (no larger option)
- Not suitable for active fungal acne
- Can look shiny if used during the day
- Not soy-free for those with allergies
- May still feel too heavy for very oily skin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar petrolatum base (46.5%) with added ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Lanolin-free. More accessible at drugstores but slightly greasier texture.
41% petrolatum with panthenol, bisabolol, and glycerin. Contains lanolin alcohol which some may be sensitive to. More widely available, greasier feel.
100% petrolatum - the original occlusive. No additional soothing ingredients. Much greasier and heavier texture. Best for extreme dryness only.
Different approach - dimethicone-based, not petrolatum. Contains panthenol, shea butter, madecassoside. Lighter texture but less occlusive.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Anhydrous (water-free) formula has excellent stability.
Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. No refrigeration needed.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Hygienic dispensing without finger contamination.
Yes, TSA-approved 2oz size. Under 100ml liquid limit for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this product is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens - the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. The formula uses simple, well-established ingredients like petrolatum and dimethicone that have long safety records. However, always consult your healthcare provider with specific concerns.
Use with caution. While the formula is simple and free from fermented ingredients, polysorbates, and most fatty acids, it does contain petrolatum and mineral oil (paraffinum liquidum) which some research suggests may feed Malassezia yeast. If you have active fungal acne, patch test first or consider the Prequel Skin Utility Gel (glycerin-based) as an alternative.
Yes! This ointment is actually ideal for buffering the drying effects of actives like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Apply your actives first, wait for absorption, then seal with the ointment as your last step. This "slugging" technique helps reduce irritation and flaking from potent treatments while maximizing their benefits.
This product is best for dry, very dry, sensitive, eczema-prone, and compromised skin. It's excellent for anyone with a damaged moisture barrier or experiencing dryness from retinoids or harsh weather. Oily skin types can still use it as a spot treatment on dry patches. All skin types benefit from its wound-healing properties for minor cuts and scrapes.
You'll feel immediate relief and comfort upon application. Visible improvements in dry, cracked skin typically appear within 1-3 days. Significant barrier repair and reduced sensitivity usually takes 1-2 weeks of consistent use. For chronic conditions like eczema, ongoing use helps maintain healthy skin and prevent flare-ups.
Always apply as the LAST step in your skincare routine due to its occlusive nature. The order is: cleanser → toner → serum → treatment → moisturizer → Skin Utility Ointment. At night, skip sunscreen. The ointment seals in all previous products and creates a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss while you sleep.
No, this product is non-comedogenic tested with a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5 (very low). Despite containing petrolatum, the formula includes dimethicone which creates a breathable film that allows skin to function normally. The product has been laboratory tested to not clog pores. However, individual reactions vary, so patch testing is always recommended.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Because it's an anhydrous (water-free) formula, it has excellent stability and a lower risk of bacterial contamination compared to water-based products. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat to maintain optimal efficacy.
Verdict: Prequel Skin Utility Ointment is an elevated take on the classic petroleum jelly, offering the proven occlusive power of 45% USP petrolatum with a more refined texture and added skin-soothing benefits. The inclusion of α-bisabolol, ceramides, and phytosterols sets it apart from basic drugstore options. While the price per ounce is higher than alternatives like CeraVe or Aquaphor, you're paying for a dermatologist-developed formula that's non-comedogenic tested, hypoallergenic, lanolin-free, and carries the NEA Seal of Acceptance.Best for: those who want the barrier-repair benefits of petrolatum without the heavy, greasy feel, especially those with sensitive, eczema-prone, or compromised skin from retinoid use.Skip if: you have active fungal acne or are on a strict budget where drugstore alternatives would suffice.
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
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Paraffinum Liquidum
Emollient, Skin Protecting, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ozokerite
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Binding Agent, Binding, Opacifying
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 0 |
Brassica Campestris/Aleurites Fordi Oil Copolymer
Skin Conditioning
|
|