Petroleum Jelly

CAS Number:

8009-03-8

Chemical / INCI Name:

Petrolatum

Molecular Formula:

Complex mixture of semi-solid hydrocarbons (C15-C50)

EC Number:

232-373-2

Other Names:

White Petrolatum, White Soft Paraffin, Vaseline® (brand name), Petroleum Jelly .

Uses:

White Petroleum Jelly is a purified, semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum. It is valued for its exceptional occlusive properties, forming a protective barrier on the skin. It is one of the most versatile and widely used ingredients in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and personal care products .

· Skin Care & Cosmetics: Used as a base in creams, ointments, and lip balms. Acts as an emollient and occlusive agent to prevent moisture loss and protect dry, chapped skin .

· Pharmaceuticals: A key ingredient in topical ointment bases, wound dressings, and as a lubricant in medical applications .

· Hair Care: Used in hair pomades and conditioners to add shine and control frizz .

· Industrial Applications: Functions as a lubricant, rust protective coating, and release agent .

Origin

White Petroleum Jelly is a refined hydrocarbon mixture obtained from petroleum. It is produced through the distillation and purification of crude oil, followed by extensive refining, bleaching, and deodorizing processes to achieve its white color, odorless nature, and high purity .

What does Petroleum Jelly  do in a formulation?

• Occlusive Agent / Skin Protectant: Forms a hydrophobic barrier on the skin that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) .
• Emollient: Softens and smooths the skin .
• Ointment Base: Provides a stable base for topical pharmaceutical preparations .
• Lubricant: Reduces friction in various applications .
• Binder & Consistency Agent: Helps bind ingredients and maintain product texture .

Safety Profile:

· General Hazard Classification: Considered safe for topical use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. White Petrolatum is highly refined and purified to meet pharmacopoeial standards (USP, Ph.Eur.) .

· Non-Comedogenic: Highly refined white petrolatum is generally considered non-comedogenic (does not clog pores) .

· Purification: The refining process removes potentially harmful polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) to ensure safety .

· Irritation & Sensitization: Generally regarded as non-irritating and non-sensitizing . It is hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin .

· Toxicity: Not classified as hazardous for topical use. Not intended for ingestion .

· Regulatory Status: Meets pharmacopoeia standards worldwide (USP, NF, Ph.Eur., BP). Approved for use in cosmetics and OTC drugs .

Technical profile: