Petroleum Jelly: is it toxic? and safer options to consider
- Alex Kelly
- Jul 30, 2024
- 1 min read
Updated: Oct 22
What is Petroleum Jelly?
Petroleum jelly is a byproduct of the oil refining process, originally discovered on the bottom of oil rigs in the 1800s.
To be used in skincare, it undergoes a heavy refining process designed to remove impurities. While cosmetic-grade petroleum jelly is considered safe by the FDA, it’s still derived from nonrenewable fossil fuels and relies on chemical refinement to transform crude
oil into a clear, usable product.
Many people also question whether something born from the oil industry belongs on our skin, especially when plant-and animal-based, sustainable alternatives can offer similar protective benefits without the environmental footprint.
The Safety Debate
If there’s any slack in the refining process, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), known carcinogens, can contaminate the product. Unfortunately, there’s no way to know the exact refining process of products sold in the U.S., whereas the EU requires manufacturers to provide the full refining history for transparency and safety.
Most petroleum jelly found on the shelves are likely fully refined, but in the US there’s no way to know for sure. Thankfully, there are many alternative options that are affordable and easy to find - if this a battle you wish to choose, and if not that’s okay!
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