Revelika
Barrier

Petrolatum

INCI · Petrolatum · also Petroleum jelly, White soft paraffin

Revelika safety grade

Overview

A refined semi-solid occlusive that forms a protective barrier reducing transepidermal water loss by a large margin. It is one of the most effective and inert moisturizing barrier agents.

Who it's for

Very dry, compromised or healing skin; a classic 'slugging' ingredient.

Cautions

Greasy and occlusive; cosmetic-grade is highly purified, but the heavy feel does not suit everyone.

Suitability
Suits skin type
Dry Oily Combination Sensitive Acne-prone Mature Normal
Concentration
Concentration0 – 10%
Effective from
—
Max safe
—
In the glossary
Frequently asked
What does Petrolatum do in skincare?

A refined semi-solid occlusive that forms a protective barrier reducing transepidermal water loss by a large margin. It is one of the most effective and inert moisturizing barrier agents.

Is Petrolatum considered safe for skin?

Greasy and occlusive; cosmetic-grade is highly purified, but the heavy feel does not suit everyone.

RRevelika

A science-forward beauty ingredient encyclopedia. Every entry is written from published research and graded conservatively before it publishes.

Editorial standard

Content is educational, not medical advice. When evidence is uncertain we say so — and we default to caution on pregnancy safety.

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