From the Research
Differences between Vaseline and Aquaphor
- Vaseline, also known as petroleum jelly, is a topical agent used for its moisturizing properties 1
- Aquaphor, on the other hand, is a multi-purpose ointment used for wound care and skin protection 2, 3
- A study compared the clinical efficacy and cost-efficacy of Aquaphor to other barrier repair creams in treating mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis, and found that Aquaphor was as effective and at least 47 times more cost-effective 2
- Petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, has been shown to accelerate barrier recovery and permeate throughout the stratum corneum interstices, allowing for normal barrier recovery despite its occlusive properties 4
- In postoperative wound care, petroleum jelly and Aquaphor are commonly used topical emollients, with petroleum jelly being the most commonly used immediately postoperatively and at home 3
Uses and Benefits
- Vaseline is used as a moisturizer, patch test instrument, vehicle for medicated ointments, and wound care essential 1
- Aquaphor is used for wound care, skin protection, and as a treatment for mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis 2, 3
- Both Vaseline and Aquaphor have been used to keep wounds moist and promote healing, with petroleum jelly being recommended by 69.4% of respondents in a survey of Mohs surgeons 3
Comparison of Properties
- Petroleum jelly has been shown to have a number of benefits, including its ability to accelerate barrier recovery and its low risk for contact allergy 4, 3
- Aquaphor, on the other hand, has been shown to be as effective as other barrier repair creams in treating mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis, and is at least 47 times more cost-effective 2