From the Guidelines
Petrolatum jelly is generally considered safe for most people, but it may increase the risk of cutaneous infections and impair sweating, especially when used as an occlusive ointment on sensitive skin or in certain skin conditions 1.
Potential Side Effects
- Clogging of pores, potentially leading to acne breakouts, especially on the face
- Allergic reactions, though rare, manifesting as redness, itching, or a rash at the application site
- If ingested in small amounts, it typically passes through the digestive system without causing harm, but larger amounts may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or a laxative effect
- When applied inside the nostrils, it can potentially be inhaled into the lungs, causing lipoid pneumonia in rare cases
- Exacerbation of symptoms in certain skin conditions like rosacea
Considerations for Use
- Petrolatum jelly should be used with caution in patients with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions, and its application technique should avoid contamination 1
- The American Academy of Dermatology recommends fragrance-free moisturizers with petrolatum or mineral oil as the most effective and least allergenic 1
- Petrolatum and mineral oils should not be used under latex or rubber medical gloves, as they can compromise glove integrity 1
Recommendations
- Use petrolatum jelly with caution and as directed, taking into account individual skin types and conditions, and consider alternative emollients if necessary 1
- Apply a minimum amount of moisturizer, such as 2 fingertip units, to each hand, and reapply every 3 to 4 hours and/or after each hand washing 1
From the Research
Side Effects of Petrolatum Jelly
- Allergic contact dermatitis: Petrolatum jelly can cause allergic contact dermatitis, although this is a rare event 2, 3.
- Irritation: Petrolatum jelly can cause irritation, such as burning and stinging, especially when applied to damaged or compromised skin 4.
- Skin reactions: Petrolatum jelly can cause skin reactions, including erythema and stinging, although it is generally considered to be a non-irritating and non-sensitizing agent 4, 5.
Comparison with Other Products
- Petrolatum jelly has been compared to other topical products, including ceramide-based moisturizers and urea-based moisturizers, and has been found to have a lower potential for irritation in some cases 4, 5.
Safety Profile
- Petrolatum jelly has a long history of safe use and is generally considered to be a safe and effective moisturizer 6.
- Despite its safety profile, there are some misconceptions about petrolatum jelly, including its potential for flammability, allergenicity, and comedogenicity, which have been dispelled by recent reviews 6.