Ingredient
Petrolatum + Zinc Oxide Emollient
What is Petrolatum + Zinc Oxide Emollient?
Petrolatum + Zinc Oxide Emollient is a combination of petrolatum, a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons, and zinc oxide, a chemical compound. It is often used as a skin protectant and emollient, providing a barrier to moisture loss.
This ingredient is primarily used in skincare and protective products due to its ability to form a protective barrier on the skin. While petrolatum is commonly recognized as non-comedogenic and safe for most skin types, zinc oxide is celebrated for its protective properties against UV light and has mild antimicrobial qualities.
When you see this combination on a label, it's typically used for its protective and soothing qualities, especially in products related to skin care and feminine hygiene.
Commonly found in: Feminine care products, Diaper creams, Sunscreens, Moisturizers, Skin protectants
What to watch
- Some concerns about petrolatum stem from potential contamination with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) if not properly refined.
Benefits
- Zinc oxide is known for its skin-soothing and protective properties against UV radiation.
Both petrolatum and zinc oxide are recognized as safe by the FDA for use in skin protectant products.
Studies highlight zinc oxide's benefits for skin protection, though the purity of petrolatum can vary, influencing its safety perception.
Both components are not derived from animals, but the overall product's vegan status depends on other ingredients and manufacturing processes.
Sources: Petrolatum: Skin Protectant Profile · Zinc Oxide: A Multifunctional Ingredient
Scout's take
Petroleum jelly combined with zinc oxide as a skin emollient layer. Petrolatum is a petroleum derivative that can trap heat and fragrance chemicals against sensitive skin, potentially increasing absorption of the synthetic scent compounds.
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