Petroleum Jelly: A Brief Review of its History, Uses and Safety

Petrolatum, commonly known as petroleum jelly, is a versatile topical agent widely used in dermatology. Despite its popularity, misconceptions persist about this dermatological staple. This review explores petrolatum’s history, manufacturing process, and biological properties that make it an excellent moisturizer. It addresses concerns about flammability, allergenicity, and comedogenicity, dispelling myths about its use near oxygen and its potential to cause acne. Petrolatum’s diverse applications in dermatology include serving as a patch test instrument, a vehicle for medicated ointments, and an essential wound care product. Given its ubiquity, dermatologists should understand the history, safety profile, and common misconceptions surrounding this humble yet invaluable skincare product. It also explores the substance’s discovery, its widespread adoption in various industries, and current scientific understanding of its benefits and potential risks. The paper aims to provide a balanced perspective on this ubiquitous product, addressing both its practical applications and ongoing debates surrounding its use.