Vaseline and Aquaphor share a common, powerful ingredient, but theyre not interchangeable.
Here’s when to use each one for skincare.
Experts in This Article
board-certified dermatologist atU.S.
Tia Paul, founder of Balanced Skin Dermatology and Aesthetics in Newport Beach, California, andDr.
Kavya Desaiof U.S. Dermatology Partners Fairfax in Virginiatogive us the lowdown ahead.
What is Vaseline?
board-certified dermatologist atU.S. Dermatology PartnersFairfax in Virginia
Vaseline is pure petrolatum, a semisolid jelly-like substance created from the processing of petroleum oil.
Petroleum jelly isocclusive, whichmeans itcan create a water-resistant barrier on the skin to lock in moisture.
In wound care, protecting the surgical site from the outside environment can be extremely important.
Aquaphor is a semi-occlusive formulation with 41% petroleum jelly and panthenol, glycerin, and lanolin alcohol.
These additives help with deeper moisture by enhancing hydration and improving skin barrier function, Dr. Paul says.
Glycerinmakes a big difference if you have eczema or dry skin.
Humectants have the added benefit of helping to hydrate skin that has experienced transepidermal water loss, she says.
This makes Aquaphora great option for patients with eczema or dry skin.
It provides additional hydration and barrier protection beyond what Vaseline offers, she says.
board-certified dermatologist atU.S. Dermatology PartnersFairfax in Virginia
In other words, break out the Aquaphor when your skin has extra needs beyondbasicmoisturizing.
Dr. Desai also says to keep the rest of your skincare routine in mind.
If you experience this reaction, wise to avoid Aquaphor.
A lanolin allergy isprettyuncommon, somost people wont have any problems with it.
…
Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.
