The Truth About Petroleum Jelly and Lip Care

What is Petroleum Jelly?

Petroleum jelly, also known as petrolatum, is a mixture of mineral oils and waxes that has been around for over 150 years. It’s commonly used to heal minor cuts, scrapes, and burns, as well as to moisturize dry skin.

Why Lips are Different

Lips are thinner and more vulnerable to the environment than other parts of the face. They’re also made up of a unique combination of hair-producing skin tissue and mucous membrane, which makes them more prone to dryness and irritation.

The answer is not a simple yes or no. While petroleum jelly won’t add moisture to your lips, it can act as a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss. However, if you apply petroleum jelly to dry, chapped lips without first moisturizing them, you may end up making the problem worse.

The Benefits of Petroleum Jelly

Research suggests that petroleum jelly can improve the skin barrier in people with eczema, leading to less dry, irritated skin. Additionally, refined white petroleum jelly is generally safe for gentle external use.

The Drawbacks of Petroleum Jelly

While petroleum jelly is not inherently bad for chapped lips, it’s not exactly eco-friendly either. Derived from petroleum, a fossil fuel, petroleum jelly is not a sustainable option. Fortunately, there are greener alternatives available, such as coconut oil, cocoa butter, and shea butter.

How to Help Chapped Lips Recover

To soothe chapped lips, avoid licking or picking at them, and instead try using balms to calm and moisturize. Exfoliating your lips gently with a mixture of sugar and shea butter or petroleum jelly can also help remove dry, flaky skin and restore softness.

Ingredients to Avoid

• Chemical exfoliants
• Minty ingredients
• Citrus
• Camphor
• Eucalyptus
• Fragrances

When to See a Doctor

If your chapped lips persist or are accompanied by other symptoms, it may be worth consulting a doctor. Chapped lips can be a sign of an underlying condition, such as cheilitis, or a side effect of certain medications.