Vaseline remains a staple product for every vanity. The thick sticky substance is used as a moisturizer to keep dry skin hydrated. It is the least expensive and most versatile product available in the skincare industry.
The terms Vaseline and petroleum jelly are often used interchangeably. Although both products have similar textures and identical properties, they differ on various grounds.
What Is Vaseline?
Vaseline is a famous household product used for different purposes, such as skin protection, lotion, and moisturizer. It is a petroleum-based product sold by the Unilever brand.
Robert Cheeseborough first developed vaseline in 1859. Robert Cheeseborough was a young chemist who noticed the positive effects of petroleum jelly on the skin. He observed how the jelly-like substance was able to minor cuts and burns. It was also effective against diaper rash, eczema, and other skin-related issues. He began to sell refined petroleum jelly under the brand name Vaseline. However, the company was later acquired by Unilever.
Today, Vaseline is available in various forms, such as lotions, ointments, and creams. It is also used as a lubricant as well. The fragrance of Vaseline is also pretty sweet. It smells like baby powder while still keeping a soft touch on your skin.
What Is Petroleum Jelly?
Petroleum jelly, on the other hand, is an impure substance made up of non-polar hydrocarbons. Oil miners first discovered petroleum jelly in 1859. They found a cold, waxy substance at the end of empty oil barrels and began using the product on dry skin. Petroleum jelly is less greasy and more effective in retaining moisture.
Petroleum jelly was waxy and black. Petroleum jelly also has a wide range of applications. It is used for lubricating, coating, and moisturizing. It also aids the use of cosmetics, and the treatment of fungus, genital rashes, nosebleeds, diaper rashes, and chest colds. It is often used as a food additive by pharmaceutical companies.
Key Difference Between Vaseline And Petroleum Jelly
The critical difference between Vaseline and Petroleum jelly is that Vaseline is made up of pure petroleum jelly and is free from toxic compounds. In its pure state, petroleum jelly contains minerals and microcrystalline wax, making it smoother and super sticky. It has a white or yellowish-white appearance and is widely used in lotions, creams, cleansers, shampoos, and more.
Petroleum jelly, on the other hand, is a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons obtained from crude oil during extraction. It is used in baby oil, lubricants, and as an emollient. In other words, you can say that Vaseline is a form of Petroleum jelly but contains no impure and harmful chemical compounds.
Side By Side Comparison Of Vaseline And Petroleum Jelly
Vaseline and petroleum jelly differ from one another on various levels. The significant differences between these two products have been further outlined below:
Vaseline Is A Brand
As mentioned earlier, Vaseline is a brand name for pure petroleum jelly. Unilever purchased the brand from Cheeseborough in 1987. Vaseline is a combination of minerals and microcrystalline wax. Because Vaseline is free of all impurities and toxic compounds, it is considered a safer option for treating dry skin and chapped lips.
Petroleum jelly is derived from petroleum; in its raw state, it consists of solid hydrocarbons harmful to the skin.
The Thickness
Vaseline is thicker and greasy, making it suitable for dry skin. The thick texture of Vaseline leaves a sticky, making it difficult to wash it off. Compared to Vaseline, petroleum jelly is less greasy and more viscous. It makes it easy to spread the cream on the skin.
Petroleum jelly, on the other hand, is thinner in consistency. It makes it easy to apply the ointment to the skin. Raw petroleum jelly is less sticky and does not leave an oily residue after use.
The Fragrance
The fragrance emerging from the two products is beneficial in the differentiating process. Vaseline has a sweet aroma that smells like lavender or baby powder, and petroleum jelly smells like oil and gas.
Uses
Petroleum jelly is preferred by people having sensitive skin because it does not cause any allergic reaction. People struggling with eczema and psoriasis can significantly benefit from petroleum jelly. However, Vaseline is more suitable for people having dry skin.
Do Vaseline And Petroleum Have Any Similarities?
Vaseline and petroleum jelly have a lot more in common. Both products have the same origin. They are extracted from oil mines meaning they don’t have a pure nature. Both products are generally not good for the skin. They are thick and sticky, which helps them lock the moisture in the skin. But they also trap dirt and bacteria, harming skin cells. They also prevent air, moisture, and nutrients from reaching your skin, leading to acne and other skin-related issues.
AvaCare Medical has impressive skincare products for all your needs if you genuinely want healthy and moisturizing skin. Our skincare inventory is filled with moisturizers and lotions that are perfect for varying skin types. Contact our experts at 1.877.813.7799 to get the best moisturizing cream based on your skin.