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Among the paraffinic hydrocarbons, petroleum jelly (also known as “petrolatum”) certainly plays a fundamental role Obtaining from the residues of petroleum distillation; petroleum jelly represents an ingredient mainly exploited in the cosmetic sphere the pharmaceutical field as an excipient of ointments, creams and ointments.
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Vaseline
It is the petroleum gel par excellence: in this regard, it should note that the term used- albeit improperly – indicate the entire category of petrolatum.
Vaseline owes its name to R. CheseBrough, who, towards the 1860s, was able to produce some samples of paraffin derivatives. The term Vaseline is composed of one German and Greek, respectively: Wasser (water) and delight (oil).
Attention!
Petroleum jelly is not confused with liquid paraffin, also known as petroleum jelly. And chemically different products with other characteristics, although they are both petroleum derivatives.
Features
Characteristics and Chemical Analysis of Vaseline
It is a heterogeneous mixture of saturated and minimally unsaturated paraffinic hydrocarbons, with a fluid, semi-solid and solid consistency, obtained from petroleum through special fractionation and purification treatments
It is soft, waxy to the touch and greasy; the structure appears amorphous and homogeneous. Generally, petroleum jelly is Odorless and Colorless; sometimes, it is translucent-semitransparent yellow.
It melts at temperatures between about 40 and 45 ° C. The hydrocarbon compound does not oxidize in contact with air and is chemically inert, so it appreciates in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical fields.
It is easy to understand how petroleum jelly is insoluble in water and soluble, on the other hand, in solvents such as benzene, chloroform and aromatic hydrocarbons in general.
Production
Stages of Vaseline production
Some lubricating fractions are obtains from the distillation of oils, which are subsequently subject to refining. At first, the obtain particles were processed with sulfuric acid, then neutralize with soda and washed. Next, these are bleached with particular bleaching coals in the last refining step and, finally, filtered.
It is possible to get different types of paraffin from petroleum intends for other uses.
Types of Vaseline
Commercially speaking, the different types of this petroleum jelly can distinguish according to the area of origin or color. Therefore, based on this latter classification, it is possible to determine:
White Vaseline
White Vaseline is a remarkably delicate and first-rate aliphatic hydrocarbon extensively used as an emollient and lubricant. In addition, it’s miles used as an excipient within the pharmaceutical field, despite the fact that in a few pills, it may also be one of the main additives.
Yellow Vaseline
Yellow petroleum jelly is greater oily than white petroleum jelly and potentially more risky. In addition, yellow petroleum jelly has essential impurities, a number of that are considered dangerous to health.
Brown petroleum jelly:
Brown petroleum jelly extra polluted through residues from the petroleum refining technique. It isn’t always used both within the pharmaceutical or in the beauty field.
Uses
As cited, petroleum jelly is broadly used inside the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry, but no longer handiest due to the fact there are numerous other domestic makes use of and no longer of this substance.
The primary uses of this substance are in short illustrated beneath.
Medical-pharmaceutical use
In the pharmaceutical area, petroleum jelly is broadly used as an excipient with an emollient and lubricating action to prepare creams, ointments and ointments.
A typical example of the use of petroleum jelly in the pharmaceutical field gives by the galenic preparation of salicylic acid-based ointments (salicylic petroleum jelly) with keratolytic and antifungal action.
White petroleum jelly is also part of the composition of drugs for ocular use in association with liquid paraffin. These drugs indicate the presence of dry eye states.
Cosmetic use
Given its emollient properties, petroleum jelly is also widely used in cosmetics (INCI nomenclature: Petrolatum), where it operates in the formulation of a large variety of products, such as:
Gels, balms and sticks for dehydrated lips ;
Lip glosses and lipsticks;
Body hygiene products;
Shaving preparations ;
Massage oils ;
Body creams;
Hair conditioners.
Spread at the skin, petroleum jelly creates a kind of protective movie (occlusive film), able to decreasing trans-epidermal water loss. When applied to the skin, petroleum jelly forms an occlusive layer that helps reduce moisture loss. For more information about its skin-care uses, see the American Academy of Dermatology’s guide to petroleum jelly.
Did you know that
At one time, petroleum jelly is used as a lubricant for condoms: presently, the use of petroleum jelly for this purpose has long past into disuse. As it reacts with the latex of the condom, deteriorating it.
Other Uses
- The uses of petroleum jelly—especially in the world of DIY—are many, although some may be questionable. For example, people may use it as part of personal-care routines or as a protective barrier for dry skin.
- Do-it-yourself remedies should not replace professional medical advice, especially when someone is trying to treat a medical condition.
- Pure white petroleum jelly for cosmetic use is commonly used to help protect dry or chapped skin and to reduce friction in areas subject to rubbing.
- Petroleum jelly has also been used after getting a tattoo because of its emollient properties. Tattoo aftercare recommendations can vary, so follow the advice of your tattoo artist or healthcare professional.
- Some people prefer other products for tattoo aftercare. If you are exploring tattoo designs, you can also browse these angel number tattoo ideas.
- Petroleum jelly is sometimes used as a barrier product during diaper changes. Choose a product intended for skin use and follow the package directions.
- Petroleum jelly can also be used in industrial products, including lubricants, shoe creams, and anti-rust products. The type used in industrial settings is different from cosmetic-grade petroleum jelly intended for skin application.
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Side Effects
Generally speaking, petroleum jelly is well tolerated by most individuals.
However, it may cause unwanted effects in some people. Applying petroleum jelly topically, either on its own or in cosmetic or pharmaceutical products, could cause irritation or an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals. Discontinue use if irritation occurs and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
Where to Buy Vaseline?
Vaseline and, in particular, white petroleum jelly can be found in physical and online stores, pharmacies, and parapharmacies. When purchasing petroleum jelly, choose a quality product from a reputable retailer. It is also advisable to be cautious of products of unclear origin or those sold at unusually low prices.