What Makes Petroleum Jelly Your One-Stop Skincare Solution?

Do your elbows, joints and knuckles run dry frequently? A petroleum jelly can just be the thing you need.

Also known as petrolatum, this ‘wonder jelly’ was first patented in 1859 by Robert Augustus Chesebrough when he saw oil workers use a fluid, semi-solid substance to treat their wounds and burns.

Besides the main ingredient petroleum, this jelly also contains mineral oils and waxes that lock the moisture in your skin. 

Use it as a balm or ointment

Petroleum jelly can be applied as a face and body ointment as well as a moisturizer. Dab a small amount after shower to prevent your skin from drying. This also acts as an effective make-up remover.

The jelly is, of course, most commonly used as a balm on cracked and chapped lips, hands and heels. Surprisingly, it can even be used to treat split ends and add shine to your hair. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), you can use petroleum jelly to prevent chafing as well as to treat diaper rashes.

“If you frequently get manicures and pedicures, apply petroleum jelly to your nails and cuticles in between polishes. This will minimize brittleness and help prevent your nails from chipping. For the best results, apply it when your nails are damp,” recommends AAD.

If you suffer a minor cut or scratch, you can use petroleum jelly to keep the wound moist and check skin irritation.

However, you should avoid applying it around the inner lining of the nose as inhaling it can lead to respiratory troubles.

Pro-tip: If you are acne-prone, avoid petroleum jelly.