Vaseline sources, health risks

Vaseline, also known as petroleum jelly or petrolatum, is a semi-solid mixture of saturated, paraffinic hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum, a naturally occurring, yellow-to-black liquid found in various parts of the world. It was discovered in 1859 in Titusville, Pa., by American chemist Robert Chesebrough, who came to learn of Vaseline’s uses by observing oil rig workers using a gooey jelly on their wounds and burns. The name “Vaseline” is believed to be derived from the German word “wasser”, which means “water”, and the Greek word “elaía”, which means “oil”.

Because Vaseline can encourage the skin to heal faster and better retain moisture, it’s been used as a primary ingredient in skin care products, eye lubricant ointments, and its own product.

Although “Vaseline” is the original brand name for the petroleum jelly manufactured by Ango-Dutch company Unilever, “Vaseline” is often used as the generic term for petroleum jelly in numerous countries.

Harmful effects that can be caused by Vaseline

While originally widely marketed as a skin care product, research has shown that Vaseline has the potential to harm the skin instead of caring for it. For one, Vaseline has been found to suffocate the skin by increasing the absorption rate of chemicals found in personal care products into the bloodstream, which then decreases the amount of oxygen absorbed by the skin. For another, Vaseline can interfere with the body’s natural moisturizing mechanisms, leading to dry and chapped skin. Moreover, using Vaseline on skin that hasn’t been dried or cleaned properly can result in fungal or bacterial infections, particularly if the Vaseline is taken from a contaminated jar.

Certain individuals are sensitive to petroleum-based products like Vaseline and may develop allergies with regular use. As with many products, one should always look out for any adverse reactions to Vaseline to determine whether or not they are sensitive to it.

Vaseline is intended solely for external applications. Consuming a large amount of petroleum jelly products can result in shortness of breath, throat irritation, coughing, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Additionally, Vaseline can irritate the eyes and nose if used on these body parts.

As a mineral oil-based product, Vaseline can boost the risk of aspiration pneumonia when used around the nose area. Aspiration pneumonia is a kind of respiratory infection or swelling caused by breathing foods, liquid, and other types of matter into the lungs or the airways leading into the lungs.

If used vaginally, Vaseline can increase the risk of bacterial vaginosis. This vaginal condition is a type of mild infection caused by atypical bacteria overgrowth in the vagina. The most common symptom of bacterial vaginosis is a smelly vaginal discharge that can appear grayish-white or yellow in color. Another common symptom is a fish-like smell that’s said to worsen after sex. As such, Vaseline is not recommended as a vaginal lubricant nor as a masturbation aid.

Body systems harmed by Vaseline

Vaseline can be harmful to the skin, respiratory system, and vagina. The latter body system and part are at risk if Vaseline is not utilized for its intended application, while the skin is most susceptible to the negative impacts of Vaseline if it hasn’t been cleaned or dried, or if Vaseline is used frequently and liberally.

Where to learn more

• 15 Petrochemical Skin Care Ingredient to Avoid
• Food-grade shellac and petroleum? Just what is it you’re eating besides ‘shiny fruit and vegetables’?
• How can petroleum ever be ‘hypoallergenic’? – the hypocrisy rages on with baby oils
• The 6 most popular toxins Americans coat their bodies with, and then wonder why they’re suffering from inflammation, rashes, skin allergies and cancer
• Want to avoid petroleum and its byproducts? Look out for these ingredients

Summary

Vaseline is a skin care product that can actually harm the skin by suffocating it and disrupting its natural moisturizing mechanisms. Moreover, Vaseline use can lead to fungal or bacterial infections on skin that hasn’t been dried or cleaned.

Applying Vaseline around the nose area can increase the chances of developing aspiration pneumonia, while vaginal use of Vaseline can lead to bacterial vaginosis.

Consumption of Vaseline can cause various respiratory and digestive problems such as diarrhea and shortness of breath. In addition, Vaseline can irritate the eyes and nose.

Sources include:

FAO.org
Healthline.com
Livestrong.com
MedlinePlus.gov