Petroleum Jelly. Almost always colloquially referred to as “Vaseline” no matter which actual brand we’re using. It has nearly unlimited uses. Vaseline itself even published an article containing 101 different ways to use the product. Vaseline, and its generic counterparts, are a staple in lots of households and culturally significant for many. Growing up in Black households, we used Vaseline for everything. Lotion, lip balm, wound care, edge control, and much more.
Petroleum jelly not only moisturizes, but seals in moisture. It lasts a long time and is relatively inexpensive. It’s a Godsend for many people for many reasons. The National Cancer Institute defines petroleum jelly as “A thick, greasy, substance with no odor or taste, made from petroleum (mixture of oily liquids found in the earth). Petroleum jelly is used on the skin to prevent drying and to help heal scrapes and burns. It is also used as a base for some ointments. Also called petrolatum.”[1]
Much like the name suggests, petroleum jelly is indeed made from petroleum. It’s crude oil that’s been refined into a jelly. “Manufacturers make petroleum jelly from the leftover petroleum material from oil and gas production.”[2] Because of this, petroleum jelly is classified as a Paraffin.
According to Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, “When properly refined, petrolatum [petroleum jelly] has no known health concerns. However, with an incomplete refining history, petrolatum could potentially be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs… The National Toxicology Program (NTP) considers PAHs as a class to contain reasonably anticipated carcinogens.”[3]
As long as it’s properly refined, petroleum jelly is considered to be reasonably safe. Vaseline (the actual company) guarantees their petroleum jelly is 3x purified. There are many brands who don’t specify their purity standards. Make sure to carefully read the label before/if you purchase petroleum jelly products. Not only to check for the refining process, but other factors that may affect purity as well. For example, Aquaphor, a popular petroleum-based product, contains lanolin, which we know is sourced from sheep.
I hope this helps! To sum it up, petroleum jelly is made with crude oil and may contain carcinogens. Vaseline has been recognized by the FDA as appropriate for a variety of uses, such as helping protect minor scrapes and burns, and protecting skin from wind burn and chapping.[4] Just remember, products you put on your lips, unavoidably end up being ingested. This is not to persuade you, just to inform you.
There are many alternative products out there that can replace the everyday uses of vaseline. If you’re looking for a plant-based, non-toxic lip balm, check out our latest flavors.