It’s an over century-old product, it can help treat a range of skin-related ailments, it’s easy to find, and it’s inexpensive. If there’s one product in your medicine cabinet you can turn to any time, anywhere, it’s Vaseline or petroleum jelly. Whether you’re using it as a basic beauty aid or as an essential for baby health and hygiene, it’s a reliable product you can count on.
Petroleum jelly helps to calm and protect dry skin while acting as a barrier. This is especially important as we head into winter when the air is extremely drying. As the body’s largest organ, it’s so important to take good care of your skin. However, doing so doesn’t necessarily mean breaking the bank. In fact, a recent study named petroleum jelly as the best way to reduce the risk of eczema in newborns. This is because petroleum jelly is chemically similar to proteins in our skin and can help treat everything from chapped lips to dry cuticles, hands and feet.
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To celebrate this wonder product, let’s take a look at the benefits of petroleum jelly and why it should be in everyone’s medicine cabinet:
Acts as a skin barrier – The skin does not easily absorb petroleum jelly, thereby helping keep out dirt and prevent moisture loss. Apply it to irritated skin before spending time outside in cold, dry, windy air. If you have a cold, apply it under your nose to help soothe irritation from a runny nose or frequent nose-wiping.
Prevents chafing – Chafing, which occurs when skin rubs against another body part or clothing, can be very irritating, especially for people with eczema or dry skin. Some people develop rashes or broken skin due to chafing. Applying petroleum jelly to areas prone to chafing may help prevent it.
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Treats nappy rash – Many babies develop nappy rash after sitting in wet nappies for a prolonged period. Rather than use an expensive baby nappy rash cream, Petroleum jelly creates a moisture barrier that can reduce the risk of nappy rash. It can also soothe the skin and provide relief from existing nappy rashes.
Supports healing – The American Academy of Dermatology advises using petroleum jelly to support skin healing. Because petroleum jelly creates a natural barrier, it may prevent infection and reduce the risk of scarring.
Prevents peeling – When skin is so dry that it peels, petroleum jelly can soothe the irritation and help skin heal. Apply it to dry, chapped lips or irritated eyelids during cold weather seasons.
There are many brands of petroleum jelly on the market in South Africa. One of the most popular is Clere Pure Petroleum Jelly. The brand offers three variants in Clere Pure Petroleum Jelly White, Yellow, and Baby Fresh, all of which are now available in a larger 450ml jar.
