Vaseline is a staple skin care item in almost all households.
Almost all dermatologists recommend it to people with various skin conditions.
But should you use Vaseline for eczema?
The conventional answer is yes!
But let me paint another picture for you.
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Why You Should Not Use Vaseline for Eczema
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
It causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin, which is uncomfortable and painful.
Many people turn to petroleum jelly, commonly known as Vaseline, as a remedy for eczema, but this is not the best solution.
In fact, using Vaseline for eczema can worsen the condition, and here’s why:
- Â Vaseline may contain impurities
- Petroleum jelly, the main ingredient in Vaseline, is derived from crude oil.
- During the refining process, it may contain impurities, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are known carcinogens.
- While the levels of PAHs in Vaseline are considered safe by regulatory authorities, some people may prefer to avoid using it completely.
- According to the David Suzuki Foundation, in the European Union, petrolatum can only be used in cosmetics if the full refining history is known and it can be shown that the substance from which it is produced is not a carcinogen.
- Vaseline does not contain any active ingredients
- Vaseline is a petroleum jelly, is an occlusive agent that works by preventing water loss from the skin. However, it does not contain any active ingredients that can treat eczema.
- This means that Vaseline cannot address the underlying causes of eczema, such as inflammation and immune dysfunction.
- Vaseline can clog pores:
- Since Vaseline is an occlusive agent, it can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts.
- This is especially problematic for people with eczema, as their skin is already prone to inflammation and irritation.
Why Do Dermatologist Recommend Vaseline?
There are multiple reasons like how moisturizing it can be, skin protectant because of the barrier the oil creates and being safe for sensitive skin.
For majority of the people who have very minor skin conditions, it works to an extent.
People swear by it.
The general consensus from Doctors and Dermatologists have given their stamp.
But this general consensus was made years ago.
Even today, as far as we know, it’s safe.
But as someone who lives with eczema and has used Vaseline/petroleum jelly, it never really healed my skin.
Sure, it provided some relief in the moment.
But it never did any healing.
Because there are no active healing ingredients in it.
Vaseline Alternatives
Do you need to stop using Vaseline or petroleum jelly now?!
Nope!
But if you like, there are tons of more natural options out there.
So, what are the alternatives to Vaseline for eczema?
There are more options, but these three are a great place to start.
Does Vaseline Promote Healing?
Not necessarily, in my opinion, as a Certified Nutritional Practitioner and as an Eczema Warrior for 20+ years.
Yes, it provides moisture.
Yes, it creates a protective barrier.
These qualities allow the skin to heal on it’s own.
But it doesn’t have any active healing properties like calendula, jojoba, castor, magnesium, zinc, etc.
What is the Difference Between Petroleum Jelly and Vaseline?
Nothing actually.
Vaseline is name of the brand.
Petroleum Jelly is the actual ingredient used in the product.
You can find generic brands of petroleum jelly.
Different brands have different refining methods (to purify it from chemicals and toxins).
Some brands will add healing ingredients.
When You Need More Than Vaseline
So Vaseline just ain’t cutting it and you need some serious help to heal your eczema.
Well, let me hook you up.
If you are looking for natural creams to help, check out my post on 7 Best Natural Eczema Creams.
When it comes to eczema, from a holistic perspective, you need to address you nutrition. Sooner, rather than later.
Creams, lotions and potions will only take you so far.
You need to build a foundation using your nutrition.
This is the foundation your body can start repairing the skin, and ultimately heal your eczema.
I highly recommend you check out the following articles below:
Last but not least, if nothing you’ve tried is working, then you need to check out the XZMA Healing Program.