Petroleum Jelly And Its Varied Uses

Petroleum jelly is a product which is obtained from petroleum. It is found mostly on oil rigs and contains a mixture of hydrocarbons. It is a semi-solid and odorless material. It is one of the most common ingredients used in creams and lotions. Apart from being used as an ingredient in cosmetics, it is used for various other purposes too. It was first used as a burn ointment, although it seldom cures burns and wounds. However, it provides a proper coverage for minor wounds and prevents infection in many ways. It can also be used as an effective sunscreen lotion as it offers adequate protection against ultraviolet rays.

Petroleum jelly can be used for various purposes. It can be applied to minor cuts and scraps as it helps to speed the process of recovery and prevents scars to a large extent. According to studies, wounds which are moist heal better than those exposed to the air. Moisture plays a key role in minimizing infection and inflammation.

It can also be applied onto the face as it helps to reduce dryness of the skin. It is also believed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. It can also be used as a make-up remover and moisturizer.

It can also be applied on to the scalp as it protects the hair from damages. Petroleum jelly can be applied onto dry, itchy and chapped skin. Dry skin is prone to cracks and infections which can be prevented with the application of pure petroleum jelly. There are many ointments which contain pure petroleum jelly without any fragrances and colors. These ointments are hypoallergenic and non-irritating which prove to be an excellent cure for diaper rashes and wind burns.

Regular usage helps to protect the skin and acts as a barrier against all types of irritating elements. It can also be applied onto the hands which lose its natural moisture due to constant washing.

There are alternative ointments which can be used instead of petroleum jelly. It can be used like petroleum jelly but it contains no hydrogenated oil or petroleum jelly.