Petrolatum

Petrolatum molecular structure

adultsSkin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Is this safe for adults to use Petrolatum?

YES - Generally Safe
Danger Score: 2 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Petrolatum is generally considered safe for adults when used in topical products. Adults generally have higher tolerance.

ℹ️General Overview

For adults, this ingredient is usually safe on the skin when it is the purified white form. It works as a protective moisturizer.

What to Do

Pick products that say white, highly purified, or pharmaceutical grade petrolatum. Apply a thin layer to clean, unbroken skin. If you have acne‑prone skin, use sparingly. Stop using it if you notice irritation or breakouts.

⚠️Warnings

Quality matters: European Union cosmetics rules limit its use unless the refining process is proven clean to avoid contamination from crude oil. Environment Canada lists it as a higher health priority. Some studies have found that mineral oil components can build up in the body after long, repeated exposure. Do not put it inside the nose, and avoid using it on deep cuts or infected skin.

Confidence: MEDIUM

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Banned: In the EU, this ingredient is restricted unless it is very pure, because it can carry PAH leftovers from oil. This rule comes from the EU Cosmetics Directive.
Organ Risk: Canada’s environmental health agency lists it as expected to be harmful and a high health priority. With repeat use, it may stress organs like the liver.
Builds Up: Studies in people (2015) and in lab rats (2017) found mineral oil parts can collect in body tissues over time. Small daily amounts can add up.
Long-Term Risk: Because it can build up in the body and may carry PAH impurities, risks can grow with years of use. Purity limits in the EU were set to lower this risk.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Petrolatum

This ingredient may also be listed as:

white soft paraffinwhite petrolatumpetrolatumPETROLATUMYELLOW PETROLATUMPETROLATUM WHITEPETROLATUM AMBERMINERAL JELLYMINERAL GREASE (PETROLATUM)PETROLEUM JELLY

Always check ingredient labels carefully, as ingredients may be listed under different names.

Products Containing Petrolatum

This ingredient is found in the following products:

This list shows products that contain Petrolatum or its alternative names.

Common Questions About Petrolatum

Is this safe for adults to use Petrolatum?

Yes, Petrolatum is generally considered safe for adults based on current research.

What are the banned risks of Petrolatum for adults?

Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries.

What are the organ risk risks of Petrolatum for adults?

May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use.

What are the builds up risks of Petrolatum for adults?

Builds up in the body over time with repeated use.

What are the long-term risk risks of Petrolatum for adults?

Linked to long-term health effects after years of use or exposure.

What products contain Petrolatum?

Petrolatum is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.

When can adults using products with Petrolatum?

The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for adults. Use the age selector above to check other ages.

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