10 REASONS TO USE VASELINE ON THE FACE | Dermatologist

Summary

This video debunks common myths about Vaseline, highlighting its many skincare benefits. Despite misconceptions, petroleum jelly is safe and non-carcinogenic due to the refining process that removes harmful substances. It's a favorite in dermatology for its occlusive properties, which aid in skin barrier recovery and wound healing. The video also addresses concerns about acne and pore clogging, explaining that Vaseline is non-comedogenic and can even improve acne. However, it advises caution with premature babies due to potential infection risks. The host shares personal uses and invites viewers to discuss their experiences with Vaseline.

Takeaways

• 🧪 Vaseline, or petroleum jelly, has been used in skincare and medicine since 1859, originally refined by chemist Robert Chesebrough.
• 🚫 Contrary to myths, petroleum jelly is not carcinogenic. It's highly refined and contains negligible amounts of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
• 🧴 Vaseline is an excellent skin protectant and aids in barrier recovery, making it a staple in dermatology and various medical specialties.
• 💧 As an occlusive ingredient, Vaseline significantly reduces transepidermal water loss, supporting skin hydration and health.
• 🌱 Vaseline's emollient properties help in natural skin exfoliation, making it beneficial for dry and flaky skin conditions.
• 🏥 It's a common base for many topical medications, enhancing the delivery of active ingredients and improving their efficacy.
• 🩹 Effective for wound healing, Vaseline keeps wound beds clean, hydrated, and promotes proper skin cell migration and re-epithelialization.
• 👶 Caution is advised when using Vaseline on premature babies due to potential increased risk of infections; it's often avoided in their care protocols.
• 🌙 'Slugging', or applying Vaseline as the final step in a nighttime skincare routine, can help reduce irritation and support skin barrier recovery.
• 🚫 Despite misconceptions, Vaseline is non-comedogenic and does not clog pores; it may even help improve acne conditions by reducing water loss.

Q & A

What is Vaseline and what are its origins?

Vaseline is a petroleum jelly that originated in 1859 when chemist Robert Chesebrough noticed workers using a substance called罗德蜡 to treat open wounds. He refined petroleum and patented Vaseline a decade later.

Is petroleum jelly carcinogenic as some claim?

Despite being derived from petroleum, which contains carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, the amount in petroleum jelly is negligible due to extensive refinement. Topical application of these hydrocarbons also shows almost no skin penetration.

What is the composition of Vaseline and how is it made?

Vaseline is a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons, including mineral oil and waxes like paraffin wax and microcrystalline wax. It undergoes significant processing to ensure purity and safety for cosmetic use.

Why is Vaseline used extensively in medicine and dermatology?

Vaseline is used in medicine because it acts as an excellent skin protectant, facilitates barrier recovery, and reduces water loss from the skin, making it beneficial for various skin conditions and wound healing.

How effective is Vaseline in reducing transepidermal water loss?

Vaseline can reduce transepidermal water loss by an estimated 50 to 90 percent, which is significant for maintaining skin hydration and health.

Can Vaseline help with skin exfoliation?

Yes, Vaseline has emollient properties that can help loosen and smooth dry skin cells, aiding in natural skin exfoliation.

Is Vaseline safe for use on sensitive or irritated skin?

Vaseline is generally safe and well-tolerated, especially for those with skin conditions like atopic dermatitis or rosacea, due to its low risk of causing allergic contact dermatitis and stinging.

Does Vaseline clog pores and cause acne?

No, Vaseline is not comedogenic and does not clog pores. Studies have shown that it can even improve acne conditions by reducing water loss and supporting skin barrier health.

What is 'slugging' and how is Vaseline used in this skincare practice?

Slugging refers to applying a layer of petroleum jelly, like Vaseline, as the final step in an evening skincare routine to reduce water loss and support skin barrier recovery, resulting in hydrated and softened skin the next morning.

Is there any situation where Vaseline should be avoided?

While Vaseline is generally safe, it may not be suitable for people with rosacea due to its heat-trapping effect, which could trigger a flare-up. It's also generally avoided for premature babies due to an increased risk of bacterial and yeast infections.